Log Yard Plant & Machine Operator

Description

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU

This is not a conventional production-line machine-operating role and full training will be provided!

You will work across a large, open log yard, operating specialist vehicles and equipment once trained, with a mix of indoor and outdoor working.

Over time, you will also be trained to monitor the automated log grading machinery from the control room, using camera systems to oversee the process and identify when intervention is needed.

Permanent opportunity from day one

Salary £30,653.87 (£13.63 per hour)

Full-time position working 43.25 hours per week

Monday–Thursday: 07:00–16:30

Friday: 07:00–12:15 – enjoy an early finish every Friday

Excellent working hours to support a healthy work-life balance

Durham location

26 days’ holiday plus 7 bank holidays

Annual profit and performance-related bonus scheme

Life assurance cover

Employee Assistance Programme

Pension in line with government guidelines

Full training provided on specialist yard equipment, including 360 excavators, log grabbers and three types of trucks

Further development to learn how to monitor the automated log grading system from the control room

Excellent working conditions, including fully heated cabins and air conditioning

A rare opportunity to build a long-term career with a business investing millions in its people, site and equipment THE BUSINESS

Westray Recruitment Group is seeking a Log Grading Operator to join an established manufacturing organisation on a permanent basis in the Durham area.

The business manufactures an extensive range of timber products for customers throughout the UK and has invested millions in its operations, including a brand-new, state-of-the-art sawmill and the latest machinery. This ongoing investment is helping the business increase its manufacturing capacity while maintaining the specialist processes needed to produce bespoke timber products.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a successful North East manufacturer that is committed to developing its people, investing in modern equipment and creating long-term career opportunities. Roles offering this level of training and exposure to specialist machinery do not come along often.

This is not a conventional production-line machine-operating role. You will work across a large, open log yard, operating specialist vehicles and equipment once trained, with a mix of indoor and outdoor working. Over time, you will also be trained to monitor the automated log grading machinery from the control room, using camera systems to oversee the process and identify when intervention is needed.

The log grading system automatically sorts timber according to its diameter and length. The operator plays an important role in monitoring the process and can stop the system to check and address potential issues – for example, if a log appears to have been incorrectly graded or is not moving through the system as it should. Full training will be provided so you can build the skills and confidence required for each part of the role.

You will work as part of a seven-person team supported by a Shift Manager. The role includes working outdoors in varying weather conditions, alongside access to comfortable vehicle cabins with heating and air conditioning.

THE ROLE

Work within a large, open log yard, helping to move and manage timber safely and efficiently

Receive full training to operate 360 excavators and log grabbers

Train to operate all three types of trucks used within the yard

Complete and accurately record all required pre-start equipment and vehicle checks

Operate yard machinery and vehicles safely and in accordance with training, site rules and standard operating procedures

Support the safe movement, handling and positioning of logs throughout the yard

Once trained, monitor the automated log grading process from the control room using camera systems

Keep a close eye on the grading machinery and intervene by stopping the system when a potential issue needs checking or correcting

Monitor the grading process to help ensure logs are sorted correctly by size, diameter and length

Complete quality-control checks and ensure timber leaving the area meets the required specifications

Understand how the grading scanners operate and help maintain the required standards

Accurately input production and quality information into the company’s computer systems

Follow verbal and written instructions and established production processes

Work safely and efficiently to support daily production targets

Identify and report errors, deviations or equipment issues to the Shift Manager

Liaise with the Engineering team regarding machinery breakdowns to help minimise downtime

Ensure employees and visitors entering the log yard follow relevant health and safety requirements

Maintain a clean, safe and organised working environment throughout the shift

Contribute ideas and suggestions that could improve systems, processes and working practices

Support management in implementing positive changes across the operation

Undertake additional duties when reasonably required to support the needs of the business

Participate in overtime when required in accordance with the employment contract THE PERSON

This opportunity could suit someone with experience in a yard, outdoor, manual, plant, vehicle-operating, timber-processing, manufacturing or similar hands-on role. xjnqpsq Previous experience is useful, but just as important is having the right attitude, a willingness to learn and a strong commitment to working safely.

A positive, practical mindset and a genuine willingness to learn new skills

Interested in training to operate specialist machinery and different types of yard vehicles

Previous experience in a manufacturing, production, timber-processing, yard, outdoor or manual role would be beneficial

Able to follow verbal and written instructions accurately

Good concentration and attention to detail, particularly when monitoring automated machinery

Comfortable working both indoors and outdoors throughout the year in varying weather conditions

Computer literate, or confident learning to use computer systems and enter information accurately

A valid driving licence with no more than six penalty points is advantageous

A chainsaw certificate of competence would be advantageous but is not essential

An FLT certificate of competence would be advantageous but is not essential

Strong communication and working-relationship skills

Able to work effectively as part of a team and promote a positive one-team approach

Flexible and willing to support production targets and business objectives

Strong awareness of workplace health and safety requirements

Able to identify problems, remain alert and suggest practical improvements

Experience of modern lean-manufacturing techniques would be advantageous

Experience working within a business moving from reactive to proactive working practices would be beneficial HEALTH, SAFETY AND QUALITY

Operate all machinery, vehicles and equipment in accordance with training and safe working procedures

Complete documented start-of-shift checks for relevant equipment and vehicles

Wear the correct personal protective equipment at all times

Follow site fire procedures, COSHH requirements and machinery guarding controls

Report accidents, incidents, near misses and equipment faults promptly

Assist with investigations when required

Maintain high standards of cleanliness across the working area

Ensure timber leaving the department meets the required quality specifications

Accurately complete and record required quality-control checks

Maintain a consistent focus on safety, product quality and continuous improvement TO APPLY

Please send your updated CV to Harry Mann or apply directly by calling Westray Recruitment Group

Ad ID: 5419138730