Experienced Loader Driver (Natchez)

Jones • Natchez, MS

21h • Onsite

About The Position

The Log Yard Loader Operator runs yard loading equipment to unload trucks, sort and deck logs, and keep the mill supplied with the right material at the right time. This is an experienced, hands-on role that demands sound judgment around moving equipment and people. The operator reports to the Log Yard Foreman and works closely with scalers, truck drivers, and the production crew. Nothing gets made until logs are unloaded, sorted, and delivered to the mill. The Log Yard Loader Operator keeps that flow moving. Every load you handle safely and sort correctly protects our people, our equipment, and the quality of the grade hardwood lumber and access mats we produce.

Requirements

• Proven ability to operate a wheel loader or log loader in a production setting.
• Ability to judge log grade, species, and quality while sorting.
• Strong spatial awareness and precise equipment control.
• Basic equipment inspection and daily maintenance skills.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• 3+ years of heavy equipment or log yard loader experience.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and to sit for extended periods in a loader cab.
• Ability to climb on and off equipment and perform routine servicing.
• Ability to work scheduled shifts and occasional overtime as production requires.
• Safety-minded: never trades speed for safety and speaks up when something is not right.
• Steady and precise: stays calm and accurate during busy truck traffic.
• Dependable: shows up on time and keeps the yard moving.
• Team player: communicates clearly with drivers, scalers, and the mill crew.
• Takes pride in the work: treats equipment and material with care.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Cat or John Deere wheel loaders.
• Experience with log trucks, debarkers, or sawmill infeed systems.
• Familiarity with log scaling or yard inventory practices.
• Experience in a hardwood sawmill or log yard is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate loaders and yard equipment safely and follow all site safety rules and OSHA requirements.
• Complete pre-shift equipment inspections and report hazards or defects immediately.
• Maintain awareness of pedestrians, truck traffic, and other equipment at all times.
• Participate in toolbox talks and support a culture of looking out for one another.
• Unload inbound log trucks safely and efficiently.
• Sort logs by species, grade, and length according to yard standards.
• Build neat, stable decks and keep the yard organized for safe access.
• Rotate inventory as directed to control quality and minimize decay.
• Feed logs to the debarker and infeed decks to keep production running steadily.
• Communicate with the Log Yard Foreman and production crew about material needs and shortages.
• Handle logs carefully to reduce damage, breakage, and waste.
• Perform daily servicing and cleaning, including greasing and fluid checks.
• Report mechanical issues early and work with maintenance to limit downtime.
• Keep the cab and work area clean and free of debris.
• Assist with yard cleanup, housekeeping, and other tasks as assigned by the Log Yard Foreman.

Benefits

• Safety, teamwork, and genuine care for our people guide how we operate every shift.
• Growth Opportunities: This role can grow into a Lead Operator, Log Yard Foreman, or other operations leadership position over time. We invest in our people, and your growth is part of our plan.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED