EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I

Biewer Sawmill in Newton, MS, is seeking a motivated Shipping Forklift Operator to join our high-performing team. As a key member of our shipping team, you will ensure our quality wood products are moved safely and efficiently to meet our customers' needs. We invite dedicated individuals who value integrity and safety to apply and grow with our company. At Biewer, our core focus is to be the #1 Choice for Wood Products Solutions for our Customers.

Summary:

Operate a powered industrial truck to load and unload lumber materials, necessitating the skillful maneuvering of wide and complex loads through storage areas, machines, loading zones, and rail cars.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Handle material with a forklift to stack units of dimensional lumber and plywood safely in correct storage bays.

Load and unload materials from trucks and railcars with a forklift.

Locate and move stock of products to maintain accurate inventory.

Identify product damages and monitor quality of materials.

Work in other departments such as splitting, stacking, tagging, etc. as needed.

Follow all safety procedures and policies, work together with co-workers to ensure a safe working environment and report all accidents or unsafe conditions to the supervisor.

Maintain a safe workplace and culture, and complete required safety forms, checklists and permits.

Sweep floors, pick up broken pieces of lumber, straps and shovel debris.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications:

Language skills to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

Ability to write and update routine reports, basic correspondence and follow production specifications.

Understand and follow verbal and written instructions.

Mechanical aptitude and ability to operate industrial equipment.

Proven reliable attendance and punctuality.

Ability to speak effectively and professionally to customers or employees of an organization.

Education, Experience and Certifications:

High school diploma or equivalent.

Prior manufacturing experience is preferred.

OSHA safety certification or forklift certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).

Work Environment:

Industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery and mechanical equipment.

Exposure to bark, sawdust, and fluctuating seasonal temperatures (hot, cold, humid).

This safety-sensitive position requires employees to comply with all OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and required drug and alcohol testing procedures.

Work performed indoors and outdoors, including log yard and lumber yard areas.

Shift work may include nights, weekends, overtime, and extended hours during peak production.

Physical Demands:

Sit inside forklift or walk for extended periods (8-12-hour shifts).

Climb and descend steps, stairways, or ladders several times per shift.

Lift, push, or pull up to 50 lbs. regularly and use hand tools.

Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced production environment.

Team-oriented with strong communication skills.

Commitment to safety and safe work practices.

Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination required.