Millwright

JOB SUMMARY

The Millwright is responsible for installing, aligning, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing industrial machinery and mechanical equipment throughout Plain Dealing Lumber's sawmill and planer operations, including conveyors, saws, motors, gearboxes, bearings, and hydraulic and pneumatic systems. This role is critical to minimizing unplanned downtime and keeping mill equipment running safely and efficiently. The Millwright works closely with the Maintenance Manager and other maintenance personnel to perform both scheduled preventive maintenance and emergency repairs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Install, align, and level industrial machinery and equipment, including conveyors, saws, chippers, planers, motors, and gearboxes.
• Diagnose mechanical problems and perform repairs on production equipment to minimize downtime.
• Perform preventive maintenance tasks according to PDL's maintenance schedule, including lubrication, belt and chain adjustments, and component replacement.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and equipment manuals to guide installation, maintenance, and repair work.
• Fabricate, machine, or modify parts as needed using hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment, including welding, cutting, drilling, and grinding.
• Troubleshoot and repair hydraulic and pneumatic systems, bearings, seals, and gearboxes.
• Align and balance rotating equipment, such as shafts, pulleys, and sprockets, using precision alignment tools.
• Respond promptly to equipment breakdowns and emergency repair calls to minimize production downtime.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, including work orders, parts used, and equipment history.
• Coordinate with the Maintenance Manager and production supervisors to schedule maintenance work with minimal disruption to production.
• Requisition replacement parts and help maintain adequate inventory of critical spare parts.
• Follow all lockout/tagout (LOTO) and other required safety procedures when servicing equipment.
• Mentor and assist less experienced maintenance technicians as needed.
• Perform other maintenance duties as assigned by the Maintenance Manager.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical/vocational training in industrial maintenance, the millwright trade, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience as a millwright or industrial maintenance mechanic, preferably in a sawmill, lumber, or heavy manufacturing environment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with hands-on experience in equipment installation, alignment, and repair.
• Working knowledge of hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical power transmission systems.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals.
• Basic welding and fabrication skills.
• Working knowledge of lockout/tagout and other industrial safety procedures.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, overtime, and be available on call for emergency repairs.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Millwright certification or completion of a formal apprenticeship program.
• Experience with sawmill-specific equipment, such as headrigs, edgers, trimmers, planers, and chippers.
• Proficiency with precision alignment tools (dial indicators, laser alignment systems).
• Forklift and/or crane/rigging certification.
• Basic PLC troubleshooting knowledge.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position is performed primarily in mill and maintenance shop environments, with regular exposure to noise, dust, heat, cold, and moving machinery. The incumbent must be able to lift up to 75 lbs, climb ladders and stairs, work at heights, and work in confined spaces as needed. Regularly required to stand, kneel, bend, crawl, and use hand and power tools for extended periods. Required personal protective equipment (hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toed boots, gloves) must be worn at all times in production and maintenance areas. This role may require responding to emergency equipment breakdowns outside of normal working hours. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS

• Diagnoses and repairs equipment issues efficiently to minimize unplanned downtime.
• Completes preventive maintenance tasks on schedule and in accordance with PDL's maintenance program.
• Maintains accurate, complete maintenance records and work order documentation.
• Follows lockout/tagout and all required safety procedures without exception.
• Responds promptly to breakdown and emergency repair calls, prioritizing safety and production impact.
• Communicates proactively with the Maintenance Manager and production supervisors on equipment status, parts needs, and scheduling conflicts.
• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Demonstrates sound judgment in prioritizing maintenance work based on production impact and safety risk.
• Maintains regular, dependable attendance and availability for on-call emergency repairs.

Plain Dealing Lumber is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.