Kiln Maintenance​/Operator

Position: Kiln Maintenance / Operator
Millwright

Location:

Longview, WA

Pay Range: $ per hour DOE

Background:

Northwest Hardwoods is the leading manufacturer of hardwood lumber in North America, as well as a leading supplier of panel products from around the world. A fully integrated, global supplier of wood products, NWH serves the furniture, flooring, cabinet, molding, and millwork industries. We are committed to safety, quality, and continuous improvement in everything we do.

We are currently seeking a full-time Kiln Operator / Maintenance Technician for our Longview, WA facility.

Position Summary:

The Kiln Operator / Maintenance Technician is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining lumber dry kilns and associated equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality lumber drying operations. This role supports production goals by monitoring kiln schedules, maintaining proper drying conditions, troubleshooting equipment issues, and performing preventative maintenance activities.

This position requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently in a manufacturing environment while maintaining quality and safety standards throughout the drying process.

Key

Duties & Responsibilities:

Kiln Operations

* Operate and monitor lumber dry kilns in accordance with established drying schedules and operating procedures

* Monitor kiln temperatures, humidity levels, airflow, and moisture content throughout drying cycles

* Adjust kiln settings as necessary to maintain proper drying conditions and product quality

* Inspect lumber charges and identify potential drying defects or quality concerns

* Track and document kiln performance, drying schedules, and moisture readings

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

* Perform preventative maintenance on kilns, fans, motors, valves, steam systems, and related equipment

* Troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical issues associated with kiln operations

* Assist with repairs and replacement of motors, bearings, belts, chains, and other components

* Identify equipment concerns before failures occur to minimize downtime and maintain production flow

* Coordinate with maintenance and production teams regarding operational issues and repairs

Safety & Compliance

* Follow all company safety policies and procedures, including lockout/tagout practices

* Maintain a safe and clean work environment in kiln and mechanical areas

* Ensure safe operation of kiln systems, steam systems, and related equipment

* Report safety hazards, equipment concerns, or operational issues promptly

Quality & Continuous Improvement

* Support consistent lumber quality by maintaining proper drying schedules and kiln conditions

* Assist with continuous improvement initiatives focused on drying efficiency, product quality, and equipment reliability

* Monitor moisture content and drying performance to reduce degrade and improve recovery

* Support operational improvements to increase uptime and production efficiency

Required Qualifications:

* Industrial maintenance or manufacturing experience preferred

* Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability required

* Experience with industrial equipment, motors, bearings, chains, and conveyors preferred

* Basic understanding of electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems

* Ability to read gauges, meters, and operational controls accurately

* Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks effectively

* Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality

* Ability to work flexible hours, overtime, and weekends as needed

* Lumber drying or kiln operation experience preferred but not required

Northwest Hardwoods provides competitive wages, comprehensive benefits package with medical, dental, and vision health care coverage, paid vacation/holidays, and company matching 401(k) retirement plan.

Candidates who meet these qualifications will be considered further.

Northwest Hardwoods, Inc is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.