On-Site Planer Mill Setup Specialist

Plain Dealing Lumber, LLC; North Shreveport (LA); On-site; USD 46,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Plain Dealing Lumber is seeking an experienced Planer Set Up to configure and optimize planer mill equipment for each production run, achieving target dimensions, surface quality, and throughput while minimizing downtime.

You will work closely with the Planer Supervisor and Lead Operator to follow run sheets, perform knife changes and adjustments, troubleshoot equipment issues, and maintain safe, compliant operations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2–3 years of hands-on planer setup/planer mill operator experience in lumber manufacturing.
• Ability to read/run sheets, interpret dimensional specs, and use measurement tools.
• Strong mechanical aptitude; diagnose issues and perform minor maintenance.
• Able to work rotating shifts, overtime, and weekends as production schedules require.

Responsibilities

• Setup, changeover, and adjustment on planer, trimmer, edger and related equipment.
• Set knife head configurations, feed rolls, pressure bars, and other components to target dimensions and surface quality.
• Monitor lumber quality during runs; adjust to minimize defects and waste.
• Perform knife changes and grinding prep; track knife life and rotation calendars.
• Complete and document run sheets, setup records, and quality checks for each run.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and coordinate with maintenance for repairs.
• Conduct pre-shift equipment checks and report wear or abnormal conditions.
• Communicate run status and timing to Planer Supervisor and Lead Operator.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Quality awareness

Run sheet interpretation

Measurement tools

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Plain Dealing Lumber is seeking an experienced Planer Set Up to configure and optimize planer mill equipment for each production run, achieving target dimensions, surface quality, and throughput while minimizing downtime.

You will work closely with the Planer Supervisor and Lead Operator to follow run sheets, perform knife changes and adjustments, troubleshoot equipment issues, and maintain safe, compliant operations.