What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Lumber Grader position at NWH?
Pay: Starting at $28/Hr. – $30/Hr. $2.00/ Hr. attendance bonus
Locations: Onalaska, WI
First Shift 5:00 am – 3:00 pm Monday - Friday
NHW Overview:
NWH, founded in 1967, has become the leading manufacturer and supplier of hardwood lumber to North America, Europe, and Asia. With an unwavering focus on simplifying the customer experience, NWH serves the furniture, flooring, cabinet, molding, and millwork industries with 14 hardwood species from the major U.S. growing regions and imported plywood and exotic lumber. The company operates over 40 manufacturing and warehousing facilities across the country, including sawmills, concentration yards, and distribution facilities, using innovative technologies to streamline the procurement process for customers. NWH supplies only sustainable, high-quality hardwoods to protect our resources today and for future generations. For more information, please visit nwh.com.
Key Functions
- Visual Inspection: Examine lumber on chain conveyors or racks for defects such as knots, stains, decay, splits, faulty edges, pitch pockets, wormholes, and defective milling.
- Grading classification: A lumber grade is assigned based on the identified defects, considering the wood species and intended use.
- Marking lumber: Marking each board with its assigned grade using a marking tool.
- Quality control: Identifying and reporting any inconsistencies in milling or grading to the production manager.
- Species identification: Recognizing different types of hardwood and softwood lumber.
- Dimension checking: Verifying the thickness and width of lumber to ensure it meets specifications.
- Maintaining safety standards: Following NWH safety protocols while working in the sawmill and surrounding environment.
Required Skills and Knowledge
- Sharp visual acuity: Ability to accurately identify minute defects in wood grain
- Knowledge of lumber grading standards: Familiarity with industry grading rules, such as NHLA (National Hardwood Lumber Association) standards
- Wood species identification: Ability to distinguish between different types of hardwood and softwood
- Attention to detail: High level of focus to identify even minor defects
- Physical stamina: Capability to stand for extended periods and work in a physically demanding environment
Other Requirements
- Previous experience in high-volume lumber grading & QC
- Exhibit a high level of quality Leadership
- Excellent attendance record
- Excellent communication skills
- Team Player and Self-Starter
- Must have legal authorization to work in the US full-time
Perks & Benefits:
- Medical Plans/Dental Coverage/Vision Coverage
- Prescription Plans
- Life Insurance
- Short-Term Disability Benefit
- Voluntary Long-Term Disability Benefit
- 401k Retirement Saving with Company Match
- Health Saving Account (HSA)
- Employee Assistance Program
- Employee Engagement Center Support
- Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
- Employee Engagement Events and Activities
- Employee Referral Bonus (No cap)
Additional Information:
NWH is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Salary : $2 - $30
