Demo

Forklift Operator

West Fraser
Riegelwood, NC Full Time
POSTED ON 10/11/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 12/10/2026

Forklift Operator 

Basic Description:

Forklift operators load packs onto the infeed lines to the two planer machines and unloads kilns. Operators must also remove the cross-outs when loading the infeed lines and occasionally adjust runners and cross-outs when unloading the kilns. Under normal circumstances, there are two forklift operators during day shift and only one on night shift.

Cross-outs are wood separators placed between packs to increase the flow of steam during kiln-drying. Cross-outs weigh an average of 15 lbs when dry and 30 lbs when green. Packs are usually stacked 5 packs high and the top pack does not have cross-outs.

An average of 100 packs per day are loaded onto the infeed lines. With two operators, this averages to about 40 times per day that a single forklift operator must exit their lift to remove cross-outs. This is not including the incidental times that an operator must exit the lift to adjust cross-outs or runners during unloading of kilns or when they go on breaks. When 8-, 10-, & 12- ft length lumber, the operator does not exit the lift as much due to the longer run time need for these lengths.

What you need to be successful: 

  • High School Diploma or GED 
  • Ability to work in hot, cold, dusty and noisy industrial environment 
  • Ability to bend, twist, lift, climb, stand throughout the duration of the shift 
  • Ability to perform all tasks in accordance with West Fraser safety policies and procedures 
  • Recognize and support our team culture, communicating effectively with all team members 
  • Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check, drug screen test and physical 

What will make you stand out: 

  • Be willing to work Thursdays, Fridays and some Saturdays 
  • Must be willing to perform all job assignments in an effective and timely manner with minimal supervision 
  • Ability to work rotating shifts, holidays and weekends 
  • Minimum of six (6) months in a manufacturing or industrial environment preferred 

Outstanding benefits package including: 

  • Benefits starting Day 1 
  • Competitive starting pay 
  • On-the-job training 
  • A culture that strongly believes in promoting from within 
  • Medical, Dental & Vision 
  • 401K with company match and additional retirement contribution 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan 
  • Life Insurance 
  • Disability Insurance 
  • Paid vacations and holidays 

Apply: 

If you are ready to build your career in a company that thrives on growth, a safe work environment, rewarding work, challenge, and opportunity, come build your career with us at West Fraser: https://www.westfraser.com/careers/current-opportunities 

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please apply through our online application process. Be sure to attach your resume to your online profile as resumes will not be accepted at the site. No phone inquiries, please. 

West Fraser is a diversified wood products company producing lumber, OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, pulp, newsprint, wood chips, and energy with over 60 facilities in Canada, the United States, and Europe. We are the largest lumber producer in North America, a leading global manufacturer of wood-based panels, and the world’s largest producer of oriented strand board (OSB).  

We are a growing company, believe strongly in promoting from within, and pride ourselves on providing a challenging environment with continuous development. The successful candidate should be interested in future growth opportunities within the company 

West Fraser is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D & Drug-Free Workplace (DFW) 

Salary.com Estimation for Forklift Operator in Riegelwood, NC
$37,841 to $46,372
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