Operates machines that strip and prepare logs, remove bark, cut logs and timber, create wood chips, and cut, glue, press, trim, sand, splice, mould and repair wooden boards of various grades, forms and combinations.

Adjusts and cleans machines and performs minor repairs; secures timber into place and sets saws to produce specified sizes of plank and board to be cut; starts machines and feeds stock onto cutting saws, and operates automatic feeding mechanisms; raises and lowers saws to trim boards and remove defects such as rot and splits; controls lathes and slicing machines to produce veneers, and laminates veneers using glue; verifies dimensions of cut stock and accuracy of cuts; checks saws and other machines for safety, sharpness and correct functioning.

• Works indoors in wood processing plants or outdoors in timber yards.
• Works in noisy and dusty situations with a range of sawmilling and wood processing machinery. Wears appropriate protective clothing and equipment including aprons, gloves, earmuffs, safety glasses and steel-capped boots.
• Constantly works with rough sawn timber and sharp cutting blades.

• Heavy to very heavy work demand levels.
• Stands constantly when carrying out most work tasks.
• Occasionally walks about the work site to carry out variety of tasks including the collection of raw timber and finished products.
• Sitting is not required.
• Frequently stretches out and across for many cutting tasks or when lifting pieces of timber to process.
• Squatting, crouching or kneeling movements may be required when checking machinery or preparing to lift loads.
• Frequently twists the body or neck while lifting and moving timber.
• Frequently lifts, carries or moves pieces of timber or board.
• Bending is frequently required.
• Constant repetitive hand and arm movements are required when operating machinery.
• Driving is not required for processing roles.
• Uses a range of wood processing machinery, (sometimes computer-controlled).
• Mental skills necessary include practical, technical and decision-making skills.

A New Zealand Register Level 2 or 3 qualification or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4). In some instances relevant experience may be required in addition to the formal qualification. For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be sufficient.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.