Sawmill Utility Operator

Neiman Enterprises, Inc.; Spearfish (SD); On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

401(k) matching

Employee assistance program

Flexible spending account

Health insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

Neiman Enterprises, Inc. in Spearfish, SD is seeking multiple detail-oriented Sawmill Utility Operators for an entry-level role supporting mill operations, equipment maintenance, material handling, and line setup.

You will learn sawmill operations and have opportunities for advancement within the company while working on a production floor with safety as a priority. The role requires English fluency, reliable attendance, and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Qualifications

• Requires a high school diploma or GED.
• Must be fluent in reading, writing, and speaking English.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Physical stamina to stand and lift up to 50 lbs regularly.
• Must be reliable with attendance and punctuality.
• Basic math skills for inventory and production tracking.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Previous sawmill or manufacturing experience preferred.
• Forklift certification or willingness to obtain.
• Knowledge of lumber grading standards preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with setup, operation, and basic maintenance of sawmill equipment and production lines.
• Monitor equipment operation and alert supervisors to unusual sounds, vibrations, or performance issues.
• Keep work areas clean, organized, and compliant with safety standards.
• Perform routine cleaning and lubrication of machinery as directed.
• Support quality control by identifying and separating defective materials.
• Follow all safety procedures and wear required PPE.
• Assist other operators and maintenance staff as needed to meet production goals.

Skills

English fluency

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Basic math

Attendance reliability

Safety awareness

Stamina

Reading/writing instructions

Willingness to learn

Punctuality

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift certification

Machinery operation experience

Job description

Description

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking multiple detail-oriented and reliable Sawmill Utility Operators to join our production team. In this entry-level position, you will support mill operations by performing a variety of tasks including equipment maintenance, material handling, production line setup, and general facility maintenance. This role offers the opportunity to learn sawmill operations and develop skills for advancement within the company.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with setup, operation, and basic maintenance of sawmill equipment and production lines
• Monitor equipment operation and alert supervisors to unusual sounds, vibrations, or performance issues
• Keep work areas clean, organized, and compliant with safety standards
• Perform routine cleaning and lubrication of machinery as directed
• Support quality control by identifying and separating defective materials
• Follow all safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Assist other operators and maintenance staff as needed to meet production goals

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions
• Physical stamina and ability to stand and lift for extended periods (up to 50 lbs regularly)
• Willingness to work in a manufacturing environment
• Reliable attendance and punctuality
• Basic math skills for inventory and production tracking
• Ability to work as part of a team

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous manufacturing or sawmill experience
• Forklift certification or willingness to obtain certification
• Experience with machinery and equipment operation
• Knowledge of lumber grading standards
• Experience working in fast-paced production environments

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly; up to 75 lbs occasionally
• Ability to stand, walk, and bend for extended periods
• Ability to work in high-noise environments
• Ability to tolerate dust, wood particles, and weather conditions
• Ability to work at heights or on equipment as needed

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work occurs primarily on the mill floor in a fast-paced, industrial environment
• Exposure to wood dust, noise, machinery, and outdoor weather conditions
• Shift work may include day, evening, or weekend shifts based on production needs
• Required to wear steel-toe boots, hard hat, eye protection, and other safety equipment

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

• Commitment to following all safety policies and procedures
• Must pass a background check and drug screening
• Must comply with OSHA regulations and mill safety protocols
• Participation in mandatory safety training

WHAT WE OFFER

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.