Do you work in the lumber industry, or wish you did? You can up your skills without leaving your home with NELMA’s Online Grader Academy.
This training resource makes it easy (and dare we say, fun) to learn more about the intricacies of lumber grading, especially when it comes to the two most prominent species in the Northeast and Great Lakes regions, Eastern White Pine and the Spruce-Pine-Fir grouping.
There are two major components of the Grader Academy website: grader training, which is online instruction courses, and two grader games. “Above Board” is an interactive game that simulates real-time lumber grading at a mill, with variable lug speeds from beginner level to more advanced settings, and “Build-A-Board” tests your Eastern White Pine knowledge to create a Premium or Standard grade board from a clear 1”x8”x8’ image using the maximum number of allowable defects provided in an image gallery.
“The courseware developed for NELMA’s Grader Training follows a natural, visual-learning approach to learning the intricacies of how to identify the grade of lumber. Each level of training will guide an individual in steps through the education process, beginning with basic identification of wood characteristics to more advanced grading concepts. Each topic within each level of courseware ends with a quiz. Students must pass the quiz for each topic in sequence to be able to take the next course level quiz. Once registered, a student’s Profile page will track their progress, in addition to their Above Board game scores by level.”
“When we launched the NELMA Grader Academy six years ago, our hope was that the industry would embrace the opportunity to learn more about lumber grading in a fun format,” said NELMA president Jeff Easterling. “The goal was to take what was previously a laborious learning process and offer educational opportunities in a multifaceted, online, visual education program. We’ve done that, and the number of industry members taking the classes shows how much it was needed.”
If you’re feeling the crunch of the current job market and looking for a change, the forest products industry is a great place to start. Positions are currently open for a wide variety of skilled and unskilled jobs including sales, foresters, lumber yard laborers, engineers, scientists and mill equipment operators. Check out these 10 great jobs located throughout Maine and the Northeastern United States.
Lumber Yard Manager, Harwich, Massachusetts
“Our Lumber Yard Manager controls the flow of our lumber yard and products. You will be responsible for our lumber sales building, shipping/receiving of all product, inventory control and employee development. The right candidate will be customer and product driven with a passion for bringing new products to the market.”
“LandVest is looking for an energetic and dedicated individual for a Forester position for its growing business in its Newport, Vermont Office. The position will primarily involve field work focusing on timber marking, forest inventory and silvicultural operations. LandVest offers the opportunity to work with an experienced and well-respected staff. “
“We have a full time opening for a Licensed Boiler Operator to run a new bio-mass fueled high pressure 8.5 MW steam turbine. Georges River Energy is a subsidiary of Robbins Lumber, Inc. It is co-located on a 40 acre site. Robbins Lumber is a high tech Eastern White Pine Lumber Mill.”
Mid-Level Environmental Scientist, Portland, Maine
“Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions’ Portland, Maine Office is seeking a Mid-level Environmental Scientist / Geologist / Hydrogeologist to support environmental assessment and remedial investigation projects including proposal and work plan development, field operations and staff management, project delivery and report preparation. The Portland, Maine Office is a multi-disciplinary science/engineering/architecture team of 130+ staff that offers the opportunity to work on technically challenging projects for a wide range of clients throughout the US. “
Field Representative, American Lumber Standard Committee
“Primary responsibilities of a field inspector are to conduct spot audits of randomly selected mills and facilities who are subscribers of accredited agencies. The audit is a check on the performance of the accredited agencies and their compliance with ALSC program enforcement regulations. Every field representative is given a geographic region for which they are responsible.”
-Building a network of customers by acquisition and finding new uses of the material.
-Structured follow up of customer visits, comments, requirements by using SAP system
-Sales of variety of species of LVL for standardized applications and larger end users or distributors of standardized LVL.
Requirements
-In depth market knowledge, clear understanding how current successful LVL sales and marketing programs are configured in the US in terms of products, pricing and the corresponding certifications.
-Basic knowledge on logistics while logistics in general will be handled from home office”
“The lumber handlers will stack and unstack board lumber according to grade and sort, strap stacked lumber, cross train on the tilt hoist and fork lift and keep up with mill production. All individuals must maintain housekeeping and cleaning, work cooperatively with other employees in a team environment, follow haz-com and all other safety procedures, support other areas of the department as needed and follow safe work practices.”
-Ability to assemble cabinets, size lumber, work from shop drawing, identify material defects, assemble doors and other hardwood components, and apply laminates.
-Ability to work from shop drawing to completion of architectural millwork items ready for finishing by finishing dept.”
“Irving Forest Products, Inc. is a growing company on the leading edge of technology in the sawmill industry. Are you:
Looking for current or future work in Northern Maine?
A hard working and motivated individual, interested in a dynamic career with opportunities for growth?
An Operations Professional with a background in:
Manufacturing & Production
Forestry / Agriculture
Quality Control
Heavy Equipment Operation
We are currently accepting applications for Laborers and Machine Operators. We are looking for safety-oriented, energetic individuals to join our team!”
Wood products and forestry have been declared essential industries in many states, and many positions are available right now! Check out these jobs in retail sales, college-level teaching, lumber yard management, millwrights, laborers, apprentices and more.
Lumber Yard Manager, Harwich, Massachusetts
“Our Lumber Yard Manager controls the flow of our lumber yard and products. You will be responsible for our lumber sales building, shipping/receiving of all product, inventory control and employee development. The right candidate will be customer and product driven with a passion for bringing new products to the market. Salary range $50,000 – 75,000, Previous experience in a management role is required. Contact Shannah Cullen at Scullen@StonewoodProducts.com”
“Requirements; Safety Conscious, Self Motivated, Mechanically Skilled, Reliable Team Player. Responsible for Mill Preventative and Workorder Maintenance. Maintain equipment considering operator input. Able to interpret technical data and prints. Researches parts needed in advance and has a plan. Test to ensure machine operates after maintenance procedure. Accurately records PM and Workoder data proficient with technology-Computer/I-Pad.”
“Eldredge Lumber & Hardware is a family run company serving Southern Maine and beyond since 1937. We are currently looking to fill full and part time positions at our York and Portland stores. Positions include cashier, sales floor and contractor sales. Candidates must have excellent customer service skills and be able to work weekends. Applications can be fount online at www.eldredgelumber.com or at 627 Rt 1 in York and 145 Presumpscot Street in Portland.”
“Tradesmen International is seeking highly motivated Carpenter Apprentices to join our team. If you are a Carpenter Apprentice eager to become a skilled Carpenter by improving your skills and learning new ones, this is your chance to launch your career! Current postions are in Westbrook and Portland, ME. Hours are 7 days a week, 12 hour days and regular position with 5 day/week 40 hours/week. Pay ranges from $20-25/hr.”
“Three Rivers Forest Management manages over 67,000 acres of working forestland in north central Pennsylvania and southern New York owned by an affiliate of The Lyme Timber Company. We are committed to sustainable forest management, and we hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and expertise in our business practices. We are looking for an outstanding individual to join our team in Coudersport, Pennsylvania. The position will offer challenging work in a fast-paced environment. The Operations Forester will support harvest planning and operations across managed timberlands, assisting the General Manager in forestry, GIS, and special project management. The Operations Forester will help formulate and implement forest management strategies and practices, supervise timber operations, and develop initiatives to improve property operations and performance.”
Assistant Professor of Forest Technology, SUNY ESF Ranger School, New York
“The SUNY-ESF Ranger School (http://www.esf.edu/rangerschool) in Wanakena, NY invites applicants for a tenure-track position at the Assistant Professor level in Environmental and Natural Resources Conservation, Forest Technology and Land Surveying Technology programs. The selected individual will teach sophomore-level, technical courses in subjects supporting an entry-level career in forestry or natural resources. These subject may include dendrology, silviculture, forest and natural resources measurements, and forest and natural resource management, among others. All courses include both lecture and lab components, and most incorporate outdoor field exercises.”
“We have a full time opening for a Licensed Boiler Operator to run a new bio-mass fueled high pressure 8.5 MW steam turbine. Georges River Energy is a subsidiary of Robbins Lumber, Inc. It is co-located on a 40 acre site. Robbins Lumber is a high tech Eastern White Pine Lumber Mill. We offer a competitive salary and excellent benefits to the qualified applicant. Please look at our website www.RLCO.com for more information and for an application or call 207-342-5221.”
Field Representative, American Lumber Standard Committee Inc.
“Primary responsibilities of a field inspector are to conduct spot audits of randomly selected mills and facilities who are subscribers of accredited agencies.The audit is a check on the performance of the accredited agencies and their compliance with ALSC program enforcement regulations.Every field representative is given a geographic region for which they are responsible.”
“Moose River Lumber Company: Sawmill laborers are responsible for safely operating machines and cleaning. Multiple positions are available within the mill. We offer full time day or night shift with weekends off and optional overtime. Full time benefits are available! Salary negotiable depending on experience.”
“The Log Loader Operator shall adopt the culture, standards, values and working environment as outlined by the Sawmill Manager and the entire executive management team. The Log Loader Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently handling all logs activity in accordance with the Kennebec Lumber Co. standards, keeping an organized and well, maintained Log yard, providing excellent customer service to all customers and vendors while maintaining a high level of confidentiality. In addition, this position will service the mill, incoming and outgoing trucks, and assist in maintenance of the grounds, log row organization and the daily care of the equipment.”
Lumber grader? Scientist? Truck driver? College student? Customer service representative? You might be surprised by the diversity of jobs that are available within the forestry and wood products industries. Check out these 10 openings located throughout the Northeast, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
NELMA Certified Lumber Grader, Maine
Are you a NELMA certified Lumber Grader who is looking to join a well established local company and their growing team? You could enjoy a 4-day work week with opportunity for over time and work with a great team of individuals while working toward department and company goals! If you are self-motivated, are great with time management, have a strong work ethic and are looking for a great career opportunity, call Bonney Staffing’s Windham office right away to hear more details!
Field Representative, American Lumber Standard Committee, Maine
Primary responsibilities of a field inspector are to conduct spot audits of randomly selected mills and facilities who are subscribers of accredited agencies. The audit is a check on the performance of the accredited agencies and their compliance with ALSC program enforcement regulations. Every field representative is given a geographic region for which they are responsible.
This position will be part of a team assisting the park’s Resource Management program in a variety of natural resource projects, including the survey and management of invasive plants (70%). Other activities may include trail maintenance, salamander cover board and water quantity monitoring, lumber stacking and solar-kiln operation, using hand-held GPS units, data entry, and training and leading other employees and volunteers in resource management activities. Training provided. May 18, 2020 to August 9, 2020, Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park
Besse Forest Products Group, a leading manufacturer of quality Northern hardwood veneer, lumber, and plywood, is currently seeking a highly motivated individual to fill a Log Buyer position. This position will procure saw logs and veneer logs in the North Eastern Wisconsin area.
Manomet, Inc. is seeking an applied forest scientist to support a major new initiative to increase carbon sequestration and storage on managed forest land. This effort will focus on both forest management and carbon market participation. The project will utilize Manomet’s Climate Smart Land Network (CSLN), a 21st century extension program designed to help large-scale forest landowners integrate climate science into their forest management and planning. The Network already contains over 30 million acres of managed forest and includes many of the major forestry companies in North America.
Education Program Specialist, University of Minnesota
Sustainable Forests Education Cooperative, Education Program Specialist. This is a full-time, annually renewable for 40 hours per week, based at the University of Minnesota’s CloquetForestry Center, Cloquet Minnesota.
The Sustainable Forests Education Cooperative (SFEC), located at the University of Minnesota’s Cloquet Forestry Center, has been offering continuing education opportunities to natural resource professionals in a broad range of fields -forest ecology and management, wildlife biology, forest hydrology, botany, best forest management practices, technology transfer, human dimensions, and others since 1997.
The Technical Customer Service (TCS) Representative, Mill Specialist reporting to the Sr. Director of Business Operations, supports products from a technical basis produced by ND Paper delivered to customers’ facilities. The TCS representative will work closely with the mill and customers to troubleshoot complaints/claims and performance issues. In addition, the TCS representative will report back to the respective ND Paper production facility on findings providing all relevant information and samples.
Opening for a Class A truck driver with center mount experience. Must have a clean driving record and valid medical card. Hauling locally to area mills with no long distance hauls. Full time position with benefits to include, health insurance, 401K plan, uniforms, vacation, holiday pay and generous production bonuses.
A premier regional environmental consulting and remediation firm, is seeking motivated environmental professionals to join their expanding team. Candidates must possess a BS degree in environmental science, geology, engineering or a related discipline, have completed OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER training and have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience and background with an environmental, engineering and/or remediation company.
Forest Technician I, Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, New Hampshire
The Forest Technicians will assist Forest Management Bureau staff with implementing a variety of forestry and wildlife habitat projects on the Fox Research Forest and other state reservations as needed.Duties shall include conducting forest resource sampling and inventory; assisting with timber harvest preparation and marking; forest stand improvement activities such as pre-commercial thinning with chainsaws and brush-saws and trail maintenance. Applicants should be familiar with the use of compass, prism, and GPS. Duties require travel throughout the southwest portion of the state and the use of personal vehicles may be required. Applicants must posses a valid driver’s license and insurance as well as reliable transportation
If you’re ready for a new opportunity in Wood Products or Forestry, check out these ten job openings available within the Northeast and Upper Midwest, including lumber graders, cabinet makers, mill operators and management positions.
Forester, Bristol, Vermont
The A. Johnson Co., LLC, a Hardwood Sawmill located in Bristol, VT, is looking for an individual with a Forestry degree and GIS skills. Duties will include managing private and company lands, overseeing timber harvests, and procuring logs/standing timber by developing relationships with Loggers, Foresters, & Landowners. Salary based upon experience, benefits package includes health insurance, 401K plan, along with production bonus. If interested, please contact Rob Fields at 802-453-4884 or email resume to rafields32@yahoo.com.
Yard Manager, Upstate New York
The Yard Supervisor is responsible for all aspects of the lumber process – from green receiving to kiln dried shipments. The Yard supervisor works together with his assistant yard supervisor/kiln operator, yard administrator and warehouse manager among with another 40+ full time employees. The yard supervisor reports directly to the company’s President.
Positions open for a Lumber Grader Certified by NELMA. 40 hours a week with an on time bonus. Empoyer: DiPrizio Pine Sales. Learn more at the NeLMA job board.
Architectural Millworkers & Cabinetmakers, Upstate New York
Custom Millwork company is looking for a minimum of 10 years’ experience – Highly skilled is all aspects of woodworking with more than general knowledge of AWI standards and practices; Examples of arch. Millwork bars, reception desks, wall paneling, doors, banquettes, window seating, conference tables, furniture pieces; Ability to assemble cabinets, size lumber, work from shop drawing, identify material defects assemble doors and other hardwood components, and apply laminates; Ability to work from shop drawing to completion of architectural millwork items ready for finishing by finishing dept.
Natural Resources Forestry Regional Specialist, Grand Rapids, Michigan
Natural Resources Forestry Regional Specialists develop forestry programs at the Region administrative level. Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry Programs include: State Land Management, Resource Protection, Cooperative Forest Management, Forest Resource Information and Planning, Nursery and Tree Improvement, and Administrative and Technical Support. Work hours are subject to change based on work needs; hours of work and days off may vary and includes weekends, evenings and holidays.
Branch Manager will be responsible for daily operations, P&L, managing/development of staff, budgeting, marketing, and inventory management. Outside Sales Representative, Inside Sales Representatives, and Operations Manager report directly to the incumbent Branch Manager. Experience in wood products and milling operations required.
Commercial Architectural Woodwork company serving upstate NY construction marketplaces is now excepting resumes for Millwork Estimators. Responsibilities include attending scheduled informational walk-throughs at specific job sites, obtaining architectural drawings, construction specifications and related bid documents and conducting accurate methodical take-offs. Learn more at WoodJobs.com.
Forestry Program Data Coordinator, Kingston, New York
The Bureau of Water Supply seeks to hire an Associate Project Manager II for a position in the Forestry Section, Natural Resources Division within in the Watershed Protection Programs Directorate, located in Kingston, New York. DEP’s Forestry Program manages City-owned watershed forest lands to protect, conserve and enhance water quality protection. Forestry Program work is guided by the 2011 Watershed Forest Management Plan, which documents the condition of City-owned forest land, and establishes forest condition goals to best protect water quality. DEP’s Forestry Program also oversees forest management activities on City-held conservation easements within the watershed.
Plans, leads, coordinates and directs activities of production and maintenance team members to achieve established goals and objectives related to Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost. Creates and supports a culture of engagement, empowerment, teamwork, mutual respect and continuous improvement through leading and driving for results. Maintains open communication between all departments while providing leadership and coaching across the organization. The Production Manager will be responsible for managing workflow, ensuring all production, quality and safety metrics are met.
The Wood Mill Operator 1 is an entry level position, working under supervision of foreman, encompassing the skills of Clean Up and Fireman/Watchman, depending on facility location. Responsibilities include: Grease, oil, lubricate, and service the equipment in the following areas throughout the plant and adjacent areas, on daily, weekly, or monthly schedule: Handle Finish Line, Sawmill, Turning, Log Yard, Dry Kiln, Boiler Room, Compressors, & Sawdust Blowers; Clean and service the following in the handle finish area on a daily, weekly or monthly schedule: Clean lacquer spray booths, Clean and scrape handle conveyor belts, Clean handle drying conveyor, Clean lacquer at spray station feed rolls, Clean dust from technocrats, Blow down dust in handle finishing department, & Sweep floors. Learn more at Indeed.com.
When a utility company’s poorly maintained power lines spark a blaze in dried-out vegetation amidst hurricane-force winds, even the most well-managed forests are at risk. But in many places, forest management can help reduce unwanted effects when fires do occur, especially in drier forests.
The entire Forest Products industry is facing a shortage of workers as many older employees retire. To keep our forests in good shape, we need a new generation of foresters ready to take the reins. We previously covered a program in Calaveras County, California that provides forestry jobs for people who live in the fire-prone Sierra Nevada foothills. Now, let’s take a look at a statewide program called the Forestry Challenge that’s stepping up to train high school students in technical forest skills and management.
“‘Forestry is a little bit invisible to most folks. Most people think of park rangers and that’s a very limited way of looking at land management,’ said Erin Kelly, an associate professor of forest economics and administration at Humboldt State University. Foresters have a broad range of responsibilities from managing tree growth to providing technical expertise for improving the health and economic viability of forests.”
“A 2018 survey by Shasta College found that 45 percent of natural resource businesses in Northern California — including forestry, fuel production and environmental consulting — are experiencing or anticipate a workforce shortage. State government employers reported the most difficulty finding qualified forestry applicants in the last five years, according to a 2019 study by Kelly and Greg Brown, head of the Natural Resources Management and Environmental Sciences Department at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Forestry Challenge is trying to change that by teaching students new skills and career pathways.”
Founded in 2003, the Forestry Challenge program draws in participants from five countries around the state to learn from professional foresters how to collect forest data, analyze it and present their findings to a panel of judges. In Santa Cruz this year, 84 students evaluated a piece of land to make recommendations for a timber management plan, considering tree health and density, future harvesting, economic cost and biological impact.
Many students return year after year. Organizers say they’re showing them that earning a STEM degree doesn’t have to mean working in an office for a tech company. Instead, they could be outside, having a direct impact on the health of the environment.
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