Boiler/Kilns Operator - Swing Shift

Vaagen Brothers Lumber Co Inc•Colville, WA

12h•$21 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

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. Vaagen Bros. Lumber, Inc. is looking for a Boiler Kiln Operator to join our team. The primary role of the Boiler Kiln Operator is to maintain a steady flow of inventory through the lumber drying process with a continued focus on safety, and productivity.

Requirements

Specialized training or college courses in boiler technology preferred
Five (5) years previous experience in a boiler or water treatment role.
Lumber drying experience preferred
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
This is a safety sensitive position for which impairment while working presents a substantial risk of death

Nice To Haves

Specialized training or college courses in boiler technology preferred
Lumber drying experience preferred
Lean techniques and experience preferred

Responsibilities

Operate boiler systems to achieve safe and environmentally sound steam production to meet plant heat and drying needs
Determine systems and how changes in conditions, operations, and environment will affect outcomes
Regularly inspect boilers and related systems to identify any potential issues or malfunctions
Conduct regular tests and analysis of boiler water and steam to ensure proper chemical levels and quality
Monitor and control fuel and energy consumption to optimize efficiency and reduce costs
Maintain accurate records of boiler operations, maintenance activities, and repairs
Perform routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning and servicing boilers, pipes, and valves
Respond promptly to any emergency situations or equipment failures to minimize downtime and prevent safety hazards
Collaborate with other mill personnel and departments to assist in areas of greatest need
Monitoring the drying process with a focus on safety, quality, reliability, and production
Ensure that all lumber units are loaded and off loaded
Ensure proper placement of units and rotate inventory to maintain quality
Build pre-load charges in timely and efficient manner
Monitor kiln loading practices, correct issues, and communicate proper kiln loading practices
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 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