Machine Center Operator (Entry-Level)

Gutchess Lumber Company – Freedom, NY
1st & 2nd Shift Opportunities Available

Build Your Career with a Leader in the Hardwood Industry

For more than 100 years, Gutchess Lumber has been a leading global producer of premium northern hardwood lumber used in some of the world's finest applications. Our reputation has been built on quality, safety, innovation, and the dedication of our employees.

At Gutchess Lumber, we invest in our people by offering competitive pay, excellent benefits, employee ownership opportunities through our ESOP, career advancement, and a strong culture focused on teamwork and safety.

We are currently seeking motivated individuals to join our team as Machine Center Operators at our Freedom, NY sawmill. No previous sawmill experience is required—we provide training for individuals who are eager to learn and grow.

Position Summary

Machine Center Operators play an important role in the production process by safely handling lumber, maintaining equipment and work areas, and supporting efficient mill operations. This position involves physical work in a fast-paced industrial environment and may include exposure to varying weather conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Align and straighten lumber on conveyors for grading, sawing, edging, trimming, sorting, stacking, and transfer operations.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area through routine housekeeping activities.
• Remove bark, chips, banding, and scrap lumber from work areas using shovels, brooms, and other tools.
• Learn to operate various sawmill equipment and machinery safely.
• Perform basic preventative maintenance and inspections on assigned equipment.
• Assist with production operations as needed.
• Follow all safety procedures and company policies.
• Cross-train in multiple areas of the mill to support operational needs.
• Work collaboratively with team members to meet production and quality goals.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Strong work ethic and positive attitude.
• Ability to work safely in an industrial manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Reliable attendance and dependability are essential.
• Willingness to learn new skills and cross-train in multiple positions.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull 50+ pounds regularly.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, climb, and perform physical labor throughout the shift.
• Ability to work overtime and weekends as needed.

Safety Requirements

Employees are required to wear company-mandated personal protective equipment (PPE), including:

• Safety glasses
• Hearing protection
• Hard hat
• Steel-toed work boots
• Additional protective equipment as required

Compensation & Benefits

Pay: $16.00 - $24.00 per hour (based on experience and qualifications)

Benefits Include:

• Health Insurance
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Paid Training
• Career Advancement Opportunities
• Stable Full-Time Employment
• Safety-Focused Work Environment

Schedule

• Full-Time
• 8-Hour Shifts
• 1st and 2nd Shift Available
• Overtime and weekends as needed

Work Location: Freedom, NY (In Person)

Join a team that takes pride in quality, safety, and employee ownership. Apply today and start building a rewarding career with Gutchess Lumber.

Gutchess Lumber is an Equal Opportunity Employer.