RIP SAW OPERATOR

Position Summary:

Operates a rip saw and related equipment to accurately cut lumber and wood components to specified widths and dimensions for use in furniture production. Responsible for safely operating machinery, inspecting materials, maintaining production standards, and ensuring finished pieces meet quality requirements.

Position Responsibilities

• Review production schedules, work orders, tickets, and specifications prior to beginning work.
• Select and inspect lumber for appropriate size, quality, grain direction, and defects.
• Set up and operate rip saw equipment to cut lumber to specified widths and dimensions.
• Adjust machine settings, guides, fences, blades, and other components as needed for different materials and production requirements.
• Measure and verify cut pieces using tape measures, calipers, gauges, or other measuring tools.
• Monitor machine operation and make adjustments to maintain consistent cuts and product quality.
• Inspect finished pieces for proper dimensions, straightness, defects, and overall quality.
• Identify and remove defective or damaged material from production.
• Maintain a steady flow of material through the machine while meeting established production goals.
• Safely feed and remove lumber from the machine, using proper body positioning and material-handling techniques.
• Keep the work area clean and organized and remove scrap material as needed.
• Perform routine machine cleaning, lubrication, and basic maintenance as required.
• Report equipment issues, damaged blades, safety concerns, or quality problems to the appropriate supervisor.
• Follow all safety procedures, including proper use of machine guards and required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Follow established procedures for lockout/tagout when performing maintenance or clearing equipment when required.
• Communicate with coworkers and supervisors regarding production priorities, material requirements, and quality concerns.
• Assist with other Machine Room duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Previous experience operating woodworking machinery preferred.
• Experience in a manufacturing or furniture production environment preferred.
• Ability to read and understand work orders, production tickets, measurements, and basic specifications.
• Basic understanding of lumber characteristics, grain direction, and wood defects preferred.
• Ability to use basic measuring tools accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work safely around moving machinery and follow established safety procedures.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and repeatedly handle and move lumber and wood components.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced production environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Frequent reaching, bending, lifting, pushing, and pulling.
• Ability to repeatedly handle lumber and wood components.
• Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to [X] pounds, with assistance when necessary.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, wood dust, and moving equipment.
• Must be able to wear required PPE, including hearing and eye protection.