Pellet Mill Laborer & Equipment Operator - 2nd Shift

Job Summary:

The Pellet Mill Laborer is a full-time position in the Pellet Mill at our facility in Springfield, NH. First-shift hours are Monday through Friday 2:00 PM–10:00 PM; however, hours and days of operation may vary based on production needs. Training hours may differ from the regular schedule.

The Pellet Mill Laborer supports the safe and efficient operation of the Pellet Mill by operating mobile equipment, managing raw materials, assisting with production and bagging operations, performing equipment inspections and general maintenance, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Safely operate a bucket loader, forklift, and automated robotic bagging system.
• Load wood chips into the pellet mill infeed system and manage the wood chip inventory pile.
• Maintain the infeed area and ensure a consistent supply of material for production.
• Assist the Plant Operator with the safe and efficient operation of the Pellet Mill.
• Move raw materials, finished products, pallets, and other materials as directed by the Plant Operator.
• Operate a forklift to move and stage finished-product pallets and safely load and unload trucks.
• Operate and monitor the automated bagging system and ensure finished product is properly bagged, stacked, and prepared for shipment.
• Inspect finished-product bags and pallets for proper packaging, labeling, stacking, and condition.
• Perform daily inspections of assigned equipment and promptly report malfunctions, leaks, unusual noises, or other concerns to the Plant Operator.
• Assist with routine indoor and outdoor maintenance and minor repairs as directed.
• Perform general housekeeping, including sweeping, shoveling, cleaning equipment, and removing wood dust and debris.
• Keep work areas, walkways, loading areas, and equipment access points clean, organized, and free of hazards.
• Follow all company safety policies and procedures, including PPE, lockout/tagout, machine safety, forklift safety, and material-handling requirements.
• Maintain awareness of pedestrian, vehicle, and equipment traffic while operating mobile equipment.
• Promptly report spills, injuries, equipment damage, unsafe conditions, and other safety concerns to the Plant Operator or supervisor.
• Participate in required safety meetings, training, inspections, and other company safety programs.
• Assist other Pellet Mill employees and departments as needed to support production and facility operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Plant Operator or management.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work safely and effectively in a fast-paced production environment.
• Strong work ethic, sound judgment, and good decision-making skills.
• Knowledge of the pellet mill industry preferred.
• Previous pellet mill experience preferred; training will be provided to qualified candidates.
• Previous bucket loader experience preferred; training will be provided to qualified candidates.
• Previous forklift experience preferred; training will be provided to qualified candidates.

Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous experience operating heavy equipment preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment on varying surfaces.
• Ability to safely climb into and out of equipment cabs multiple times throughout the workday.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to occasionally lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to climb ladders and stairs and work at elevated heights while following all required safety procedures.
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, reach, and occasionally lift materials above shoulder height.
• Ability to safely operate equipment controls, including levers, gears, pedals, and steering mechanisms.
• Ability to perform the physical tasks necessary to safely operate and maintain equipment and work areas.

Work Environment:

• Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in varying temperatures and weather conditions.
• Work may involve walking or standing on slippery, uneven, or wet surfaces.
• Exposure to moving machinery, equipment, wood products, dust, noise, and other typical pellet mill operating conditions.
• Hearing protection and other required personal protective equipment must be worn in designated areas.
• Smoking is prohibited inside buildings and on grounds except in designated smoking areas.

Company Description

Durgin & Crowell is a large Eastern white pine lumber and wood pellet manufacturing facility in Springfield, NH. Since our founding in 1976, we have grown to become a leader in the industry, with a reputation for producing quality products and providing excellent customer service.

Durgin & Crowell supports sustainable forestry practices and strong relationships within our local community.

General Statement

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed in this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or working conditions associated with the position.

Employees may be assigned additional duties and responsibilities as needed to support safe, efficient, and productive operations. Job duties and responsibilities may be modified as business, production, or operational needs change.

• Nothing in this job description limits the Company’s right to assign, modify, or reassign duties and responsibilities as necessary.

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

License/Certification:

• Driver License (Required)

Work Location: In person