Operator-Dry Kiln

Rex Lumber, LLC.•Brookhaven, MS

About The Position

The Continuous Dry Kiln (CDK) Console Operator runs continuous dry kilns from the control console, monitoring and controlling temperature, humidity, airflow, and push or chain speed across kiln zones. The operator works to bring lumber to its target moisture content while minimizing drying defects and coordinates with the yard, stacker, planer, and boiler or energy system operators to maintain safe, steady, scheduled throughput. The role includes managing drying schedules and kiln charges; monitoring moisture and lumber quality; responding to alarms and process deviations; keeping production and shift records; maintaining a clean work area; and performing basic equipment checks. The operator follows company procedures and safety requirements, including personal protective equipment, lockout, and confined-space procedures. The position reports to the Kiln Supervisor and works closely with production and maintenance teams.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED preferred.
Able to read and interpret gauges, trends, and computer control screens and make sound adjustments.
Basic math and computer skills, including percentages, moisture calculations, and data entry.
Understands or is willing to learn wood-drying basics, including species, thickness, moisture content, and defects.
Strong attention to detail and ability to stay alert and make decisions during alarms or process upsets.
Clear communication skills and ability to work as part of a team and with limited supervision.
Able to complete the Rex Kiln Operator certification/skill list within the required period.
Able to sit at a console and also walk, climb stairs or ladders, and stand for long periods.
Able to work in hot, humid, dusty, and noisy conditions, indoors and outdoors in all weather.
Able to bend, stoop, stretch, twist, or reach with the body, arms, or legs.
Able to lift 50 pounds throughout the work shift.
Able to work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays as kiln operations require.
Follow company safety rules, including PPE requirements, lockout procedures, confined-space procedures, and reporting requirements.

Nice To Haves

Previous kiln, boiler, or sawmill process-control experience; training will be provided.
Forklift certification, or willingness to obtain it after hire per company policy.

Responsibilities

Monitor and control kiln-zone dry-bulb and wet-bulb temperatures, humidity, fan direction and airflow, and venting from the console.
Adjust push or chain speed and residence time to meet drying schedules for different species, thicknesses, and products.
Load and adjust drying schedules based on species, thickness, and target moisture content, following approved schedules and the Kiln Supervisor’s direction.
Respond to console alarms and process deviations, take corrective action under standard procedures, and escalate issues to the Kiln Supervisor or Maintenance as required.
Coordinate with the boiler or energy system operator to maintain stable heat supply and promptly report pressure, temperature, or fuel problems.
Perform controlled startups, shutdowns, and schedule changeovers according to standard operating procedures.
Track kiln charges and packages, including entry and exit times, species and size, cycle time, and gaps or breaks in the train.
Coordinate lumber package and kiln-cart loading and unloading, ensuring packages are stickered, aligned, and placed according to the production schedule.
Coordinate with the yard and stacker to maintain green-lumber supply and with the planer to match kiln output to planer needs.
Take moisture-meter readings on exiting lumber and in-kiln readings where equipped; compare results with target moisture content and adjust schedules or push rates as needed.
Inspect dried lumber for drying defects and report trends to the Kiln Supervisor.
Verify the calibration and condition of moisture meters and wet-bulb wicks and water supply, and report problems.
Record console readings, schedules, push rates, moisture test results, alarms, downtime, and corrective actions in kiln logs and shift reports.
Complete production tallies, downtime tallies, and daily reports as required.
Provide shift handovers covering kiln status, schedule changes, open alarms, and equipment problems.
Keep the console, kiln ends, and surrounding areas clean and free of debris, bark, and sawdust buildup.
Perform basic checks and assist Maintenance with thermocouples, sensors, fans, doors, and pusher or chain systems as assigned.
Participate in the action planning process and perform other duties assigned by the supervisor.
Wear required PPE, follow lockout and confined-space procedures, observe fire and equipment hazards, inspect equipment and work areas, and report unsafe conditions, incidents, near misses, damage, and injuries.