Kiln Operator- NH

General Description:

The Kiln Operator is responsible for drying lumber and maintaining all kilns on the premises to Kennebec Lumber Company’s Organizational standards. The operator is responsible for sampling and documentation as needed. The Kiln Operator loads and unloads kilns by using a forklift and performs maintenance items as well as preventative maintenance planning for the kiln area. The Kiln Operator shall become an important part of the culture, uphold standards, support the company’s values and participate in the safe and productive working environment as outlined by the Operations Manager.

Responsibilities:

• Operating a chainsaw/handsaw to cut samples (if applicable)
• Daily completion of kiln checklists:
  1. Oven Test Sheet
  2. Daily Drop Sheet
  3. Kiln Check off List
  4. Routine Daily checks of Wet Bulbs (changing as needed)
• Planning kiln loads, establishing proper kiln loading procedure
• Reading, understanding, developing, and executing KLC’s Dry Kiln Manual
• Developing Standard operating procedures (SOP’s) as needed
• Operating forklifts to load and unload kilns
• Verifying Vents
• Verification of air flow, exiting air speed (L, M, R)
• Developing and sustaining a Preventative Maintenance plan surrounding the Dry Kilns
• Routine Inspections
• General Kiln Maintenance
  1. Valves
  2. Compressors
  3. Basic Mechanical Components
• Schedule Outside Vendors for additional Maintenance Items
• Strategically placing samples and documenting to monitor variances
  1. Air flow
  2. Checking- Visually inspect samples, mark, date, re inspect
  3. Blue Stain
  4. Mold
  5. Color Variation- Investigation process
• Travel as required
• All other tasks as assigned

Safety Requirements:

Safety First – Personal Protective Equipment

• Steel or Safety Toe footwear is required in all areas.
• Gloves required in designated areas – per task.
• Hearing Protection required in all areas (Exception being inside the cab of outside machine forklifts).
• Eye Protection required in all areas
• Report all near misses and unsafe acts to immediate supervisor.
• Pedestrian awareness at all times.
• Florescent vests and hard hats are required for all outside activity (Exception, pedestrian travel from one building to another).
• Never walk through any overhead door that is controlled remotely (Always use access door next to overhead).
• Familiarize yourself with the various work areas. Learn how to operate the conveyor belts and the emergency stop buttons.
• Familiarize yourself with the various possible pinch points that are in your area.

Physical Requirements:

• Lift up to 50 lbs.
• Bend, Squat, kneel, reach as needed
• Stand for extended periods of time
• Sit for extended periods of time

Other Requirements

• Pick up after yourself and during downtimes.
• Participate in the department housekeeping program.
• Work area must be kept clean at all times.
• Excellent hand / eye coordination.
• Analytical skills and problem solving in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail.
• Read and write proficiently.
• Apply general math skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communications skills.
• Must be in working station at the buzzer.
• Additional training as required