BOILER OPERATOR

Summary

Maintains the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of the boiler system to produce and distribute a consistent supply of high-quality steam and heat required for the optimal conditioning and drying of lumber within the kilns.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Monitor and operate a solid‑fuel (wood products) boiler system, furnace, and auxiliary equipment.
• Safely manage feed systems, combustion air (primary and secondary), grate systems, and ash removal to maintain a steady, efficient burn while keeping boiler pressures within strict operating tolerances.
• Ensure consistent, precise heat and steam delivery to each active lumber drying kiln.
• Monitor kiln demand, regulate steam flow/pressure control valves, and maintain feed‑water systems to support proper multi‑stage lumber drying schedules and conditioning cycles.
• Monitor and operate environmental control to maintain strict compliance with state and federal air quality permits.
• Conduct regular visual and physical inspections of pumps, valves, piping, fans, and fuel conveyors.
• Document and report mechanical defects, assist maintenance personnel on complex repairs.
• Monitor fuel yard inventory levels (sawdust, bark, wood chips).
• Drive a Hi‑Lo/Front‑End Loader to manage fuel storage piles, load/unload kiln charges, and safely transport and empty ash carts to designated dumping locations.
• Perform lockout/tagout procedures as required.
• Follow all safety procedures and policies, and work together with co‑workers to ensure a safe working environment.
• Report all near misses, incidents, or potentially unsafe conditions to a supervisor.
• Ensure clean work areas by sweeping floors, picking up broken pieces of lumber, shoveling, and disposing of material or debris.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to speak effectively and professionally to customers or employees.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to operate industrial equipment.
• Proven reliable attendance and punctuality.

Education, Experience, and Certifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous general labor experience in a sawmill or lumber treating facility or manufacturing experience preferred.

Work Environment

• Industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery and mechanical equipment.
• Exposure to bark, sawdust, and fluctuating seasonal temperatures (hot, cold, humid).
• Required personal protective equipment: hearing protection, hard hat, safety glasses, safety footwear, and a high‑visibility shirt/vest.
• Must comply with OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and required drug and alcohol testing procedures.

Physical Demands

• Stand 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 lb regularly and use hand tools.

Schedule

5:30 am – 5:30 pm rotating schedule.