The Wood Products Utility Worker is an entry-level position responsible for supporting daily operations in our wood processing facility. This role involves a variety of hands-on tasks to ensure efficient production, maintain a clean and safe workspace, and assist with basic equipment operation. Ideal for individuals who enjoy physical work, teamwork, and learning about the wood products industry. This is a full-time position with opportunities for advancement.
- Job Title
- Utility – Plant 6
- Branch
- Plant 6
- Report To
- Plant Manager
- Schedule
- Must be available for Day or Swing Shifts
- Status
- Full-time
- Wage Range
- $21.54
Essential Functions
• Assist in the loading, unloading, and sorting of raw wood materials, finished products, and supplies using hand tools, forklifts, or conveyor systems.
• Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of machinery, work areas, and facilities to uphold safety and hygiene standards.
• Support machine operators by feeding materials into equipment, monitoring production lines, and removing waste or defective items.
• Conduct basic quality checks on wood products, such as measuring dimensions, inspecting for defects, and labeling items for inventory.
• Help with inventory management, including stacking, organizing, and tracking stock in the warehouse or yard.
• Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to OSHA regulations.
• Participate in team meetings and training sessions to improve processes and learn new skills.
• Perform other miscellaneous duties as assigned by supervisors to support overall plant operations.
What we are Looking for
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Good communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with colleagues.
• Basic math skills for measurements and inventory tracking.
• Proficiency with hand tools and willingness to obtain forklift certification (training provided)
Physical Demands
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds repeatedly. Stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods. Comfortable working in a physically demanding role, including climbing ladders and operating in confined spaces.
Qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification in woodworking or manufacturing is a plus.
• Previous experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, or labor-intensive environment preferred, but not required—entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn equipment operation.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, outdoor/indoor environment with exposure to dust, noise, and varying temperatures.
• Basic math skills for measurements and inventory tracking.
• Proficiency with hand tools and willingness to obtain forklift certification (training provided)
Benefits
Health, Dental, Life, Section 125, Discretionary Quarterly Profit Sharing and 401 (K), Paid time off, Holiday Pay, and Employee Discount
Our Company
Freres Engineered Wood, formerly Freres Lumber Co., Inc. was established in 1922 in Lyons, Oregon as a family-owned and operated wood products manufacturing business. Three generations of family management have led the Company’s veneer and plywood manufacturing facilities to sustain in the Santiam Canyon and we are committed to operating for another 100+ years.
We operate six processing plants, including a small log veneer plant, large log veneer plant, veneer drying facility, plywood plant and cogeneration facility. We are dedicated to reinvesting in our modern manufacturing facilities, providing high-quality wood products, and providing family wage jobs within our communities. We specialize in creating the highest quality wood products, from raw log to finished products, including hog fuel, bark fines, chips, shavings, specialty veneer, grade lumber, high-quality sheathing grade plywood and even electricity.
Our passion for continuous improvement aligned with our innovative approach to manufacturing has led us to become the sole producer and developer of a unique, patented wood product, the Mass Plywood Panel. If you have a growth mindset and thrive under pressure, you’re probably a great fit for our team!