Wood Sanding Machine Operator

Role Overview

This role focuses on producing consistent, high‑quality surfaces that meet appearance, dimensional, and quality standards while supporting lean manufacturing objectives.

• Set up, operate, and monitor side stroke sanders, wide belt sanders, and flutter sanders to sand and finish wood furniture components to required specifications.
• Select appropriate abrasives, sanding sequences, and machine settings based on wood species, part geometry, and finish requirements.
• Inspect parts for surface quality, defects, and dimensional accuracy; make adjustments as needed to ensure consistent results.
• Perform multiple sanding processes to achieve proper surface flatness, edge quality, and finish readiness.
• Maintain sanding equipment through routine cleaning, abrasive changes, basic maintenance checks, and reporting mechanical issues.
• Follow standard work instructions and quality control standards to ensure products meet customer expectations.
• Achieve production targets while maintaining a high level of quality and minimizing rework or scrap.
• Identify process issues and collaborate with team members to solve problems and improve efficiency.
• Support lean manufacturing principles, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Cross‑train in other production departments (e.g., assembly, material handling, or related machining operations) to build additional skill blocks.
• Work collaboratively with team members, supervisors, and quality personnel to meet production goals.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support business objectives.

• Education/
  
  Experience:
  
  One of the following is required: (1) High school diploma or its equivalent (GED for example), (2) work experience which demonstrates performance competency.
• Skills and Abilities:
• Proficient in operating industrial wood sanding equipment, including wide belt, side stroke, and flutter sanders.
• Ability to read work instructions, blueprints, or specifications related to wood components.
• Competent in basic math (counting, adding, subtracting); advanced math skills preferred.
• Ability to use measuring tools such as tape measures, calipers, and gauges.
• Strong attention to detail and surface quality.
• Ability to work cooperatively within a team‑based manufacturing environment.
• Willingness to adapt to changing production needs and learn new processes.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to perform all essential functions of the position with or without accommodations.
• Ability to stand, walk, reach, and use hands for the duration of the shift.
• Lifting requirements:
  Regularly lift up to 10lbs, frequently lift up to 25lbs, occasionally lift up to 50lbs.
• Vision requirements include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to communicate effectively and hear safety cues, with or without accommodation.

We’re committed to equal opportunity employment, including veterans and people with disabilities. This organization participates in E‑Verify Employment Eligibility Verification. Miller Knoll complies with applicable disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities.