What are the responsibilities and job description for the FILER APPRENTICE position at BEASLEY FOREST PRODUCTS INC?
Filer Apprentice – Job Description (Beasley Group)
Overview
A Filer Apprentice is an entry-level position in a sawmill’s saw shop. The role focuses on learning how to maintain, and service saw blades and cutting tools that are essential to lumber production. You work under a senior filer (Head Filer) and support safe, efficient mill operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Learn and follow all saw shop safety procedures and PPE requirements
- Assist with inspecting saw blades for damage, wear, or defects
- Help sharpen, grind, and maintain saws and cutting tools
- Support saw tensioning, leveling, and alignment using precision tools
- Prepare saws for use (cleaning, oiling, verifying specifications)
- Assist in troubleshooting cutting or performance issues (e.g., rough cuts, vibration)
- Maintain shop cleanliness and organization
- Track and document saw maintenance, repairs, and performance
- Safely handle and transport saws using carts or hoists
- Work with production teams to coordinate repairs and replacements
These tasks directly support production efficiency, product quality, and equipment uptime.
Qualifications:Requirements
- High school diploma or GED (preferred)
- Strong attention to safety and detail
- Basic math and measurement skills (fractions, tape measure)
- Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn hands-on work
- Ability to work in a noisy, dusty industrial environment
- Reliable attendance and flexibility for shifts/overtime
Preferred (Not Required)
- Experience in sawmills, manufacturing, or maintenance
- Familiarity with saw equipment or sharpening tools
- Experience using measuring tools
- Basic welding or tool-room experience
Work Environment
- Industrial sawmill setting
- Exposure to noise, dust, and heavy machinery
- Physically active (standing, lifting, handling equipment)
- Must be able to lift over 50 lbs. in repetitive tolerances
- Must be able to work weekends and holidays
- You must also be able to work 12-hour shifts
Career Path
This role is designed as a training position. With experience, a Filer Apprentice can advance to:
- Saw Filer (skilled trade role)
- Maintenance technician
- Specialized tool or equipment technician
Summary
The Filer Apprentice role is essentially a skilled-trade training position focused on precision maintenance of sawmill cutting equipment. It combines mechanical work, safety discipline, and hands-on learning in a production environment.