Log Yard Plant & Machine Operator

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. 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.

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