General Operative - Sawmill

Principle Objective Reporting to the relevant Shift Supervisor or Team Lead, the General Operative – Sawmill is responsible for supporting the safe, efficient and well‑organised day‑to‑day operation of the sawmill. The role involves working as part of a production team, carrying out assigned operational tasks, maintaining safety and quality standards, and contributing to productivity, housekeeping and continuous improvement across the site Knowledge & Experience – Experience in a sawmill, manufacturing, production or similar operational environment is desirable but not essential.

– Awareness of health and safety requirements and safe systems of work, or a willingness to learn and follow them. – Experience working effectively as part of a team in a practical, operational setting. – A hands‑on, reliable and safety‑conscious approach to work. – Flexibility to support different areas of the sawmill operation as required.

– Relevant training, licences or certifications are advantageous but not required, as full training will be provided. – Formal qualifications are not essential where the right attitude, aptitude and willingness to learn are demonstrated.

Key Responsibilities

– Operate within all health, safety, and environmental standards, policies, and safe systems of work – Carry out sawmill production tasks in line with standard operating procedures – Operate tools, machinery, and equipment safely and report any faults or hazards – Support material handling activities including feeding, stacking, grading, banding, and packing timber products – Maintain clean, safe, and organised working areas (housekeeping standards) – Conduct basic quality checks and escalate issues where required – Work collaboratively with team members to achieve daily production targets – Follow supervisor instructions and support effective shift handovers – Participate actively in training, safety briefings, toolbox talks, and improvement initiatives – Contribute to continuous improvement and operational efficiency across the site Essential Competencies – Safety Awareness – Demonstrates commitment to safe working practices – Teamwork – Works effectively and cooperatively with others – Reliability & Work Ethic – Consistent attendance and dependable performance – Attention to Detail – Maintains quality standards in all tasks – Adaptability – Flexible and willing to support different tasks/areas – Communication – Listens, understands, and follows instructions clearly Key Performance Measures – Adherence to health and safety standards and zero harm objectives – Achievement of daily/shift production targets – Quality compliance and reduction in defects – Housekeeping and audit standards – Attendance, punctuality, and reliability – Participation in training and continuous improvement activities Key Relationships – Shift Supervisors and Team Leaders – Production and Log Yard Teams – Engineering and Maintenance Teams – Health, Safety, and Quality Personnel