Job Information
Vaagen Brother Lumber Boiler Kiln Relief Operator in COLVILLE, Washington
Boiler Kiln Relief Operator
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 200 employees.
The primary role of Boiler Kiln Relief Operator within the boiler kiln department is to maintain a steady flow of inventory through the lumber drying process with a continued focus on safety, and productivity. This position is required to adapt and fulfill needs across the department as they arise.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
- Regularly inspect boilers and related systems to identify any potential issues or malfunctions
- Operate rolling stock including but not limited to forklifts and loaders
- 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
- Respond promptly to any emergency situations or equipment failures to minimize downtime and prevent safety hazards
- Operate boiler systems to achieve safe and environmentally sound steam production to meet plant heat and drying needs
- Monitoring the drying process with a focus on safety, quality, reliability, and production
- Perform routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning and servicing boilers, pipes, and valves
- 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
```{=html}
``` - Sweep, shovel and use air gun to clean work areas
```{=html}
``` - Collaborate with other mill personnel and departments to cross train on multiple machine centers and rolling stock to assist in areas of greatest need - Performs mandatory pre-shift checklists and daily maintenance records - Assist in training and mentoring of new employees - Know, Understand, and Apply the Lock-out Tag-out procedures - General 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
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
Specialized training or college courses in boiler technology preferred
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