Lumber Grader: Lead Quality Grading in a Modern Sawmill

The Lumber Manufactory; Mississippi; On-site; USD 36,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Life insurance

Paid time off

Company holidays

Job summary

The Lumber Manufactory in the United States is seeking a skilled Lumber Grader to inspect, grade, and sort lumber to NHLA standards, ensuring quality and safety in production.

You will lead a team on the shop floor, document grading data, and coordinate with sawyers and staff; on-site, full-time, with benefits and opportunities to contribute to an essential industry.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; forestry/wood science preferred.
• Experience in lumber grading within wood products industry preferred.
• Knowledge of lumber grading standards (NHLA or regional) beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Inspect lumber for defects and sort by species, size and quality.
• Grade lumber using NHLA or other grading rules.
• Mark lumber with grade stamps and processing instructions; record data.

Skills

Lumber grading

Leadership

Communication

Equipment operation

Attention to detail

Quality assurance

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Forestry/Wood science education preferred

Tools

Grading equipment

Grading software/records

Job description

The Lumber Manufactory (TLM) is building the future of sustainable lumber with next-generation sawmill technology. We design and operate state-of-the-art modular sawmills that produce high-grade dimensional wood products with greater efficiency and less waste. Backed by leading investors including Cantos, Slow Ventures, Susa Ventures, Banter Capital, Humba Ventures, and Ravelin Capital.

The Lumber Manufactory (TLM) is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lumber Grader to be responsible for inspecting, grading, and sorting lumber based on industry standards and company specifications. This role ensures that only quality wood products move forward in the production process, supporting both safety and customer satisfaction. Experience with lumber grading is preferred; on the job certification is provided.

Key Responsibilities:

• Inspect lumber for defects such as knots, splits, decay, and warping

• Grade and sort lumber by species, size, and quality using NHLA or other grading rules

• Mark lumber with grade stamps and processing instructions

• Record grading data and maintain accurate logs

• Communicate with sawyers and production staff to ensure quality standards are met

• Operate and maintain grading tools and equipment

• Follow all safety protocols and maintain a clean work area

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional education in forestry, wood science, or a related field is preferred

• Proven experience in lumber grading within the wood products industry

• Strong knowledge of lumber grading standards (e.g. ALS, or other regional standards)

• Excellent leadership and communication skills

• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality assurance

• Proficiency with grading equipment, systems, and relevant computer software

• Physical ability to work in an industrial environment, including standing for extended periods and handling lumber

Work Environment:

The position involves working in a fast-paced, industrial setting with exposure to noise, dust, and heavy machinery. The Lumber Grader must be comfortable leading a team in dynamic conditions and ensuring safe work practices.

Job Type: Full-time

Schedule: Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including:

• 100% employer-paid health coverage for employees and dependents (medical, dental, and vision)

• 100% employer-paid life insurance and disability coverage

• Paid time off and company holidays

• The opportunity to help build something from the ground up in an essential, evolving industry

Join our team as we modernize timber from forest to finished product.

The Lumber Manufactory is an equal opportunity employer committed to building an inclusive team. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.