Full job description
Finger Joint Machine Operator Galleher Industries | Kaufman, Texas Schedule: First-shift training for approximately 30–60 days, followed by second shift, 2:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m., with overtime as needed. Candidates must be available for both the initial training schedule and the ongoing second-shift schedule. Company Background Founded in 1937, Galleher Industries is a trusted manufacturer and value-added distributor of metal and lumber components serving commercial truck body and trailer manufacturers across the country. Headquartered in Pomona, California, Galleher operates facilities in California, Texas, Indiana, and New Jersey. Our team values quality, safety, accountability, and dependable service. As we grow our Kaufman operation, we are looking for team members who understand production machinery and take pride in getting the job done right. Position Summary The Finger Joint Machine Operator sets up, operates, and monitors machinery used to process hardwood lumber, with a primary focus on the finger joint production line. This position supports safe, efficient production by preparing materials, adjusting equipment, checking product quality, and identifying operating problems. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience running production equipment, understands how machine settings affect the finished product, and can recognize when adjustments or maintenance support are needed. Prior finger jointing or lumber milling experience is preferred. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Machine Setup and Operation
- Set up and operate the finger joint line and related lumber processing equipment according to production orders and established procedures.
- Support molding, planing, ripping, cross-cutting, surfacing, and other wood milling operations as assigned.
- Read and follow mill orders, cut lists, specifications, and shop drawings.
- Prepare and feed lumber into equipment, maintaining proper material orientation and consistent production flow.
- Monitor machine performance, material feed, cutting, joint fit, and finished-product quality.
- Make authorized operating adjustments to maintain specifications and reduce scrap.
- Recognize jams, unusual sounds, inconsistent output, and other operating concerns; stop equipment when necessary and notify the supervisor or maintenance team.
- Perform routine cleaning, inspections, and operator maintenance within the scope of training and company procedures.
Quality and Production
- Inspect raw lumber and finished components for defects, damage, dimensions, and acceptable joint quality.
- Use measuring tools and visual inspections to verify that products meet specifications.
- Identify, separate, and report nonconforming materials or products.
- Record production quantities, scrap, downtime, and quality concerns as required.
- Coordinate with the supervisor and other team members to meet production priorities and maintain consistent output.
Material Handling
- Stage raw lumber and finished components to support production.
- Safely handle long and oversized lumber, including planks up to approximately 28 feet long, using appropriate equipment or team assistance.
- Operate forklifts, Combi-Lifts, or other material handling equipment when trained and authorized.
- Assist with loading, unloading, storage, and inventory movements as needed.
- Keep materials organized and accurately identified.
Safety and Teamwork
- Follow machine guarding, lockout/tagout, and other applicable safety procedures.
- Wear required personal protective equipment.
- Complete required equipment inspections and promptly report hazards, maintenance needs, or machine malfunctions.
- Maintain clean, organized work areas and clear walkways.
- Communicate effectively during shift handoffs regarding production status, equipment issues, and quality concerns.
- Cross-train on related equipment and support other production duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or GED.
- At least two years of hands-on production machine operation experience in lumber milling, woodworking, manufacturing, or a related industrial setting.
- Experience setting up equipment, monitoring operation, and making adjustments within established procedures.
- Ability to read and follow production orders, cut lists, measurements, and written instructions.
- Ability to use measuring tools and basic hand tools accurately.
- Mechanical aptitude and the ability to recognize equipment or product-quality problems.
- Strong attention to detail, dependable attendance, and effective communication.
- Availability for first-shift training for approximately 30–60 days, followed by second shift from 2:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m., plus overtime as needed.
- Reliable transportation.
Preferred
- Experience operating a finger joint line or moulder.
- Lumber milling, millwork, or woodworking experience.
- Experience with planers, rip saws, table saws, jointers, shapers, or similar equipment.
- Forklift or Combi-Lift experience, particularly with long or oversized materials.
- Experience troubleshooting routine production equipment issues.
Physical Requirements and Work Environment
- Ability to perform essential duties with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and regularly bend, reach, push, and pull.
- Ability to lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds; heavier or oversized materials require appropriate lifting equipment or team assistance.
- Ability to work around moving machinery, wood dust, noise, and varying temperatures.
- Ability to safely handle long lumber and use required personal protective equipment.
Additional Requirements
- Successful completion of applicable pre-employment background screening and drug screening.
- Compliance with company safety, attendance, and workplace policies.
Why Join Galleher? Join a growing operation where your machine operation skills make a direct impact. At Galleher, you’ll work alongside a team that values safety, reliability, quality, and pride in the finished product.