Swanson Group
Since our founding in 1951, Swanson Group has proudly remained a multigenerational, family-owned company. We are committed to fostering a welcome and supportive workplace where every team member is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.
At Swanson Group, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, working alongside dedicated employees who share a passion for excellence. We believe in building a culture that encourages growth, collaboration, and long-term success.
Explore our current job openings and discover how you can become a valued member of the Swanson Group family today!
Position Title:
Kiln Driver
Reports To:
Boiler Supervisor
Department:
Boiler/Kilns
Hours per shift:
Employee works 10-hour shifts, with three 10- minute breaks, and a 30- minute unpaid lunch break.
Wage:
Level 4
Position Purpose:
Load and unload kilns, Monitor and pull kilns when they are complete. Must be willing to learn the operation of, and train to be, a relief Boiler Operator and fill in as requested.
Position Functions:
Kiln Driver: Essential Functions*
These duties are designated as ADA Essential Functions and must be performed in this job.
Load and unload kilns
Pull kilns with 966 and 980
Clean up in around the kilns and loading areas
Give breaks and help to the Sawmill outfeed drivers
Follow all company policies and SOPs for kiln operation and loading
Learn to be a backup boiler operator to help relieve boiler operator for lunch and breaks
Comply with Federal, State, and Company rules, policies and procedures.
Maintain a clean working area in and around the boiler and fuel storage areas.
Wet kiln tracks down when pulling and pushing kilns in the summer months
Perform once a day blow downs in winter months and twice a day in summer months
Perform preventive maintenance on forklift and follow greasing procedures
DAY SHIFT Specific Functions: • Take control of the Boiler to cover the Boiler Operator any time his absence is required and/or as requested • Empty ash boxes for the ESP and clean filter • Load fly-ash trucks
SWING SHIFT Specific Functions: • Take the loader to the truck shop and grease loader as per specifications • Empty the E.S.P. and clean filter
Non-Essential Functions
These duties are secondary in nature and are not classified as ADA essential.
The worker may be responsible for cleanup activity during down times or between shifts. This activity will consist of removing debris from the work area using a broom, rake, or shovel.
The worker may be required to rotate to different positions for cross-training purposes or to facilitate production. Job duties for other positions are outlined in their individual Job Descriptions.
Assist co-workers or Maintenance personnel in basic maintenance procedures for Boiler area.
Crosstrain to learn the Boiler Operator position and fill in as requested.
Working Environment : (1) Inside 90%, average temperature 80 degrees, extreme low temperature 10 degrees F, extreme high temperature 120 degrees F. (2) Outside 10%. Noise or vibration: Machine noise to include machine being operated as well as other machines close by including Forklifts. Hazards: See Job Hazard Analysis. (3) Atmospheric conditions: Dust: Limited, Mist: Water, Odors: Dry wood, Gasses: None, Poor Ventilation: None. The worker in this position will be standing on a slightly elevated wooden platform with rubber mats. The worker will move back and forth on this platform in front of an elevated dry conveyor measuring 3 ½ to 4' above the ground. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Personal Protective Equipment Required :
(1) Eye Protection. (2) Hearing Protection. (3) Rubber or Leather based gloves when handling lumber (4) Approved Footwear.
Physical Demands:
See the attached Job/Task Evaluation and Physical Capabilities portion; this position requires constant use of hearing and vision, frequent bending, twisting, pushing/pulling and reaching, and occasional lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling more than 50 lbs.
Skills : (1) must have excellent hand eye coordination. Use vision/hearing continuously and must have peripheral vision to see forklifts and co-workers. Reading and speech required to communicate comprehension of Job Hazard Analysis, machine specific lockout procedures, monthly safety training, etc. Worker generally works with another clean up member with little supervision. Clean up members must be self-directed in identifying and efficiently completing each task. Ability to prioritize, organize, and make necessary decisions.
Safety:
(1) Do only maintenance you are trained to do and keep all body parts out of machinery. (2) Always use our 14-step lockout/tagout procedure before doing any maintenance, clearing jams, or getting into machinery for any reason; be aware of stored energy. (3) Always use proper body mechanics (ex: don't overreach, get help as needed to push loads out). (4) Use proper PPE (gloves, eye protection, hearing protection). (5) Be aware of and always communicate with your co-worker (ex: forklift driver). (6) Will be required to read and write during safety training.
ENDURANCE
Never/Not Required
Seldom
1-5%
Occasionally
6-33%
Frequently
34-66%
Continuous
67-100%
Total hours at one time
Total hours in a workday
SITTING
X
10
STANDING
X
2
10
WALKING
X
2
10
CHANGE POSITIONS
X
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: (Enter actual maximum weight in pounds in the box)
LIFTING
Never/Not Required
Seldom
1-5%
Occasionally
6-33%
Frequently
34-66%
Continuous
67-100%
1-10 LBS
10 LBS
11-20 LBS
20 LBS
21-50 LBS
50 LBS
51-75 LBS
75 LBS
76-100 LBS
100 LBS
>100 LBS •100 LBS
Maximum weight lifted by worker without assistance: 50 LBS
If required, lifting over 50 LBS is performed with two or more people and/or lifting devices.
CARRYING
Never/Not Required
Seldom
1-5%
Occasionally
6-33%
Frequently
34-66%
Continuous
67-100%
1-10 LBS
10 LBS
11-20 LBS
20 LBS
21-50 LBS
50 LBS
51-75 LBS
75 LBS
76-100 LBS
100 LBS
>100 LBS •100 LBS
Maximum weight carried by worker without assistance: 10-50 LBS
If required, carrying over 50 LBS is performed with two or more people and/or lifting devices.
PUSHING/PULLING FORCE TO BE EXCERTED
Never/Not Required
Seldom
1-5%
Occasionally
6-33%
Frequently
34-66%
Continuous
67-100%
1-10 LBS
10 LBS
11-20 LBS
20 LBS
21-50 LBS
50 LBS
51-75 LBS
75 LBS
76-100 LBS
100 LBS
>100 LBS •100 LBS
Maximum weight of object pushed/pulled by worker: 50 Lbs. Distance: 4'
Type of surface (i.e. level, carpet, incline): Level / Incline
OTHER
Never/Not Required
Seldom
1-5%
Occasionally
6-33%
Frequently
34-66%
Continuous
67-100%
BEND/STOOP
X
TWIST
X
CROUCH/SQUAT
X
KNEEL
X
CRAWL
X
WALK-LEVEL SURFACE
X
WALK-UNEVEN SURFACE
X
CLIMB STEPS
X
CLIMB LADDER
X
WORK AT HEIGHTS
X
REACH AT OR ABOVE SHOULDER
X
REACH BELOW SHOULDER
X
USE OF ARMS
X
USE OF WRISTS
X
USE OF HANDS
X
GRASPING/SQUEEZING
X
OPERATE FOOT CONTROLS
X
ENVIRONMENT
INSIDE:
90%
OUTSIDE:
10%
TEMPERATURE EXTREMES:
YES
VIBRATION:
NO
WORKS ON OR AROUND MOVING MACHINARY OR MECHANICAL PARTS:
YES
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
BOOTS
YES
HARDHAT
NO
GLOVES
YES
EYE PROTECTION
YES
HEARING PROTECTION
YES
OTHER?
The information provided in this job description, including strength and physical requirements, is based on observation of the job and is accurate to the best of my knowledge.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other status protected by law.
At Swanson Group, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, working alongside dedicated employees who share a passion for excellence. We believe in building a culture that encourages growth, collaboration, and long-term success.
Explore our current job openings and discover how you can become a valued member of the Swanson Group family today!
Position Title:
Kiln Driver
Reports To:
Boiler Supervisor
Department:
Boiler/Kilns
Hours per shift:
Employee works 10-hour shifts, with three 10- minute breaks, and a 30- minute unpaid lunch break.
Wage:
Level 4
Position Purpose:
Load and unload kilns, Monitor and pull kilns when they are complete. Must be willing to learn the operation of, and train to be, a relief Boiler Operator and fill in as requested.
Position Functions:
Kiln Driver: Essential Functions*
These duties are designated as ADA Essential Functions and must be performed in this job.
Load and unload kilns
Pull kilns with 966 and 980
Clean up in around the kilns and loading areas
Give breaks and help to the Sawmill outfeed drivers
Follow all company policies and SOPs for kiln operation and loading
Learn to be a backup boiler operator to help relieve boiler operator for lunch and breaks
Comply with Federal, State, and Company rules, policies and procedures.
Maintain a clean working area in and around the boiler and fuel storage areas.
Wet kiln tracks down when pulling and pushing kilns in the summer months
Perform once a day blow downs in winter months and twice a day in summer months
Perform preventive maintenance on forklift and follow greasing procedures
DAY SHIFT Specific Functions: • Take control of the Boiler to cover the Boiler Operator any time his absence is required and/or as requested • Empty ash boxes for the ESP and clean filter • Load fly-ash trucks
SWING SHIFT Specific Functions: • Take the loader to the truck shop and grease loader as per specifications • Empty the E.S.P. and clean filter
Non-Essential Functions
These duties are secondary in nature and are not classified as ADA essential.
The worker may be responsible for cleanup activity during down times or between shifts. This activity will consist of removing debris from the work area using a broom, rake, or shovel.
The worker may be required to rotate to different positions for cross-training purposes or to facilitate production. Job duties for other positions are outlined in their individual Job Descriptions.
Assist co-workers or Maintenance personnel in basic maintenance procedures for Boiler area.
Crosstrain to learn the Boiler Operator position and fill in as requested.
Working Environment : (1) Inside 90%, average temperature 80 degrees, extreme low temperature 10 degrees F, extreme high temperature 120 degrees F. (2) Outside 10%. Noise or vibration: Machine noise to include machine being operated as well as other machines close by including Forklifts. Hazards: See Job Hazard Analysis. (3) Atmospheric conditions: Dust: Limited, Mist: Water, Odors: Dry wood, Gasses: None, Poor Ventilation: None. The worker in this position will be standing on a slightly elevated wooden platform with rubber mats. The worker will move back and forth on this platform in front of an elevated dry conveyor measuring 3 ½ to 4' above the ground. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Personal Protective Equipment Required :
(1) Eye Protection. (2) Hearing Protection. (3) Rubber or Leather based gloves when handling lumber (4) Approved Footwear.
Physical Demands:
See the attached Job/Task Evaluation and Physical Capabilities portion; this position requires constant use of hearing and vision, frequent bending, twisting, pushing/pulling and reaching, and occasional lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling more than 50 lbs.
Skills : (1) must have excellent hand eye coordination. Use vision/hearing continuously and must have peripheral vision to see forklifts and co-workers. Reading and speech required to communicate comprehension of Job Hazard Analysis, machine specific lockout procedures, monthly safety training, etc. Worker generally works with another clean up member with little supervision. Clean up members must be self-directed in identifying and efficiently completing each task. Ability to prioritize, organize, and make necessary decisions.
Safety:
(1) Do only maintenance you are trained to do and keep all body parts out of machinery. (2) Always use our 14-step lockout/tagout procedure before doing any maintenance, clearing jams, or getting into machinery for any reason; be aware of stored energy. (3) Always use proper body mechanics (ex: don't overreach, get help as needed to push loads out). (4) Use proper PPE (gloves, eye protection, hearing protection). (5) Be aware of and always communicate with your co-worker (ex: forklift driver). (6) Will be required to read and write during safety training.
ENDURANCE
Never/Not Required
Seldom
1-5%
Occasionally
6-33%
Frequently
34-66%
Continuous
67-100%
Total hours at one time
Total hours in a workday
SITTING
X
10
STANDING
X
2
10
WALKING
X
2
10
CHANGE POSITIONS
X
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: (Enter actual maximum weight in pounds in the box)
LIFTING
Never/Not Required
Seldom
1-5%
Occasionally
6-33%
Frequently
34-66%
Continuous
67-100%
1-10 LBS
10 LBS
11-20 LBS
20 LBS
21-50 LBS
50 LBS
51-75 LBS
75 LBS
76-100 LBS
100 LBS
>100 LBS •100 LBS
Maximum weight lifted by worker without assistance: 50 LBS
If required, lifting over 50 LBS is performed with two or more people and/or lifting devices.
CARRYING
Never/Not Required
Seldom
1-5%
Occasionally
6-33%
Frequently
34-66%
Continuous
67-100%
1-10 LBS
10 LBS
11-20 LBS
20 LBS
21-50 LBS
50 LBS
51-75 LBS
75 LBS
76-100 LBS
100 LBS
>100 LBS •100 LBS
Maximum weight carried by worker without assistance: 10-50 LBS
If required, carrying over 50 LBS is performed with two or more people and/or lifting devices.
PUSHING/PULLING FORCE TO BE EXCERTED
Never/Not Required
Seldom
1-5%
Occasionally
6-33%
Frequently
34-66%
Continuous
67-100%
1-10 LBS
10 LBS
11-20 LBS
20 LBS
21-50 LBS
50 LBS
51-75 LBS
75 LBS
76-100 LBS
100 LBS
>100 LBS •100 LBS
Maximum weight of object pushed/pulled by worker: 50 Lbs. Distance: 4'
Type of surface (i.e. level, carpet, incline): Level / Incline
OTHER
Never/Not Required
Seldom
1-5%
Occasionally
6-33%
Frequently
34-66%
Continuous
67-100%
BEND/STOOP
X
TWIST
X
CROUCH/SQUAT
X
KNEEL
X
CRAWL
X
WALK-LEVEL SURFACE
X
WALK-UNEVEN SURFACE
X
CLIMB STEPS
X
CLIMB LADDER
X
WORK AT HEIGHTS
X
REACH AT OR ABOVE SHOULDER
X
REACH BELOW SHOULDER
X
USE OF ARMS
X
USE OF WRISTS
X
USE OF HANDS
X
GRASPING/SQUEEZING
X
OPERATE FOOT CONTROLS
X
ENVIRONMENT
INSIDE:
90%
OUTSIDE:
10%
TEMPERATURE EXTREMES:
YES
VIBRATION:
NO
WORKS ON OR AROUND MOVING MACHINARY OR MECHANICAL PARTS:
YES
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
BOOTS
YES
HARDHAT
NO
GLOVES
YES
EYE PROTECTION
YES
HEARING PROTECTION
YES
OTHER?
The information provided in this job description, including strength and physical requirements, is based on observation of the job and is accurate to the best of my knowledge.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other status protected by law.