Production Operator

ARAUCO - North America; Grayling (MI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

ARAUCO - North America in Grayling, MI is seeking a Production Technician to operate particle board and related production equipment. The role requires lifting up to 50 pounds, forklift experience, and proactive safety practices.

You will rotate 12-hour shifts (days and nights) with weekends off periodically, and participate in a program that offers growth, benefits, and retirement planning. A high school diploma or GED is required and 18+ years old applicants are welcome.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year forklift experience beneficial; experience with 10,000 lbs or more preferred.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds consistently.
• Clear verbal and written communication skills.
• Safety first; proactively consider safest approach to tasks.
• Lifetime learner who can adapt to various roles in the department.
• Proficient in computer applications such as SAP, Microsoft Office, and production software.
• Comfortable using digital lists, analyzing data, and prioritizing tasks for safety and productivity.
• Team player; accepts feedback and flexes to business needs.
• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• Able to pass drug screen, background check, and physical after offer.

Responsibilities

• Operate machinery involved in particle board and/or TFL production.
• Monitor processes to ensure product meets quality standards.
• Move raw materials (wood chips, resins) to feed production machines and finished stacks.
• Assist in setup and adjustment of machinery for different runs.
• Perform routine maintenance on production equipment (cleaning, lubrication, parts replacement).
• Identify and troubleshoot equipment issues with maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Adhere to safety protocols and use PPE; participate in safety training.
• Maintain accurate production records (logs, inspections, maintenance).
• Coordinate workflow with the production team for efficient operations.

Skills

Forklift experience

Lifting 50 lbs

Communication

Safety focus

Lifelong learner

SAP

Microsoft Office

Production software

Data analysis

Team player

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

SAP

Microsoft Office

Production software

Job description

Looking for a rewarding career with a company that values people, growth, sustainability, and teamwork? Join our Grayling team as a Production Technician! Grayling team as a Production Technician!

Join our team as a Production Technician and begin your career earning $21.25 per hour.

This role is on rotating 12 hour shift. Workdays rotate consistently each week; rotate between working 3 12-hour days and 4 12-hour days a week along with 2 weekends off a month. Rotate between working days 6:45 am – 6:45 pm and nights 6:45 pm – 6:45 am every two weeks.

What We Are Looking For

• Minimum 1 year Forklift experience is beneficial. Experience of 10,000 lbs or more (Preferred)
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds consistently.
• Communicate effectively both in verbal and written form
• Safety first! Must be able to think proactively about the safest way possible to complete a task
• Looking for lifetime learners: Someone who wants to learn every role in the department and flex with the needs of the team each day
• Proficient in computers application such as SAP, Microsoft Office, and production software
• Comfortable working with digital lists, analyzing data, and prioritizing tasks to accomplish the goals of the team in the safest and most productive way possible
• Must be a team player and willing to accept critical feedback. An ideal candidate will share opportunities to improve the team and be willing to flex to the needs of the business for the benefit of the team
• High school diploma or GED is required
• Must be 18 years or older
• Ability to pass a drug screen, background check, and physical capability assessment, post offer.

What We Offer

• Starting rate at $21.25 per hour, with the ability to increase after completing training, plus a profit share/gain share program
• Health plans with options that meet your needs, including a wellness program, gym reimbursement, and additional benefits such as pet insurance, legal insurance, employer-paid and voluntary life insurance, and more
• Paid maternity and paternity leave, a competitive vacation package, and company and floating holidays designed to support your work-life balance
• Retirement planning options, including generous employer contributions
• Opportunities to learn and develop, including a tuition reimbursement program

In This Role, You Will

• Operate a variety of machinery involved in particle board and/or TFL production
• Monitor process to ensure production of a product that meets all quality standards
• Handle and transport raw materials, such as wood chips and resins, to feed into production machinery as well as full finished stacks
• Assist in the setup and adjustment of machinery and equipment for different production runs, ensuring proper settings and specifications are met.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks on production equipment, such as cleaning, lubricating, and replacing worn parts, to ensure optimal performance.
• Identify and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions or production issues, collaborating with maintenance teams to implement solutions and minimize downtime.
• Always adhere to safety protocols and procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and participation in safety training programs.
• Maintain accurate production records, including production logs, quality inspection reports, and equipment maintenance records.
• Work closely with other members of the production team to coordinate workflow and ensure efficient production operations.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move freely throughout the facility, including climbing stairs and ladders, and navigating around equipment and machinery.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and crouch as necessary to inspect and maintain equipment.
• Capability to lift and carry materials and equipment weighing up 50 pounds
• Ability to perform physical tasks that involve lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying heavy objects.
• Endurance to stand and walk for extended periods, often in environments with dust, chemicals, high noise levels and varying temperatures.

About Us

At ARAUCO, we’re more than a global leader in sustainable wood products—we’re a team driven by innovation, environmental stewardship, and strong core values. Committed to responsible forestry and quality craftsmanship, we create products that shape industries and protect the planet. Sustainability is central to everything we do—from responsible forestry to reducing environmental impact, we are dedicated to preserving natural resources for future generations.

Grow your career with purpose and help us shape a better future—one product, one idea, and one team at a time.

Arauco is committed to creating an inclusive culture across the organization. Arauco is an equal opportunity employer to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

Additionally, we demonstrate that commitment by preventing and removing barriers for persons with disabilities. Where it is not possible to remove barriers, Arauco will make efforts to accommodate persons with disabilities in a timely, effective and suitable manner. If you require any accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know.