Machine Center Operator 

Vaagen Bros. Lumber Inc. is a family-owned wood products manufacturer that has operated in northeastern Washington for over 70 years. We heavily believe in continuous improvement and respect for people and are currently in a Lean transformation. We operate sawmills in Colville and Usk, WA. Vaagen Bros. currently employs over 175 employees.

The primary role of the Machine Center Operator position is to assist in the production line of creating logs into lumber with a continued focus on safety, and productivity. Through cross training, the Machine Center Operator is expected to assist with positions across the mill.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• Know, Understand, and Apply the Lock-out Tag-out procedures for all applicable equipment
• Know, Understand, and Apply all aspects of the Quality Management System, and Standard Quality Control Procedures
• Monitor the quality of product and notify the appropriate personnel if substandard conditions exist
• Cross train on multiple machine centers, rolling stock, and departments
• Operates equipment safely and efficiently

• Performs mandatory pre-shift checklists and daily maintenance records 
• Assist with preventive/predictive maintenance activities and cleaning
• Assist in training and mentoring of new employees

• Float between departments to assist in areas of greatest need

• Know, Understand, and Apply the Lock-out Tag-out procedures 
• Entry level laborer sawmill duties, including but not limited to, stacking boards, general cleanup, removal of wood waste and debris, and tending machines 
• Maintain a clean and safe work area.
• Ensure tools, supplies, and equipment are always in their “home locations”
• Maintain lines of communication with other team members
• Learning and applying lean business practices
• Fill out a maintenance request and Idea Cards when needed
• Other duties as assigned

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Ensure safe work practices & follow safety procedures 
• Dependable and reliable with a good attendance record  
• Ability to streamline processes and cut waste within area of responsibility
• Lean techniques and experience preferred  
• Must be 18+ years old to work in an industrial sawmill environment
• Must have HS Diploma/GED
• Must be able to continuously stand, walk, lift, squat, bend, twist, crawl, kneel, climb, and reach above shoulders safely. The weight required to be lifted each normal workday may occasionally exceed fifty (50) pounds at a time
• Applicants will be subject to a criminal background check. However, having a criminal record will not automatically eliminate you from consideration for the job. Records will be considered based on the requirements of RCW 9.96A.020, RCW 43.43, WAC
• Must be able to successfully pass a drug test and pre-employment physical exam
  1. This is a safety sensitive position for which impairment while working presents a substantial risk of death

HOURS/DAYS/SCHEDULE:

• 40+ hours a week
• Shift work and/or weekends
• Full time

SALARY/WAGE/BENEFITS:

• Pay: $19-$30/hr
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 
• Full benefits include: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D insurance, long term disability, vacation/sick, and 401k with match

For more information, please visit our website www.vaagenbros.com or our social media platforms.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER