Operating Apprentice 1

Company: West Fraser
Location: Irmo
Posted on: January 8, 2026

Job Description:

This is an entry level position that is designed to train you on the basic operation in the planer or sawmill. You will learn a variety of machines and tasks. The majority of your time is standing and walking. This includes frequently picking up pieces of board from table height or the floor. These boards weigh on average 5 - 35 lbs., occasionally more. The job involves clean-up activities including sweeping, shoveling and lifting. You will eventually be assigned to a specific area and will be trained to perform the operator’s job in that area, to assist and “break-out” the operator. There may be some heavy lifting requirements on occasions. Once certified on a machine you will qualify for a pay increase. Minimal sitting Occasional repetitive hand movements. Frequent bending, walking, Frequent pushing, pulling, reaching. Occasional twisting, climbing, stooping, kneeling Occasional crawling or squatting Sweeping/shoveling Bending, pushing, lifting (up to 50 lbs) Wood dust below the PEL Occasional skin exposure to oil/grease Temperature extremes (the work area is typically inside but not centrally heated or cooled. A local heater/ fan is provided) Noise –hearing protection is required. >1%: Cramped positions 65 - 85%: Standing 5% Sitting 65 - 80% Walking 5% Climbing (stairs/ladders) 35 - 45% Extended reach forward or overhead, push/pull/twist, grasp/handle, bend/stoop/squat, 5% fine hand dexterity, 5-15% repetitive motion operating a control console 5-15 pounds: Frequent 16-30 lbs: Moderate 31-45 lbs: Occasional Greater than 46 lbs.: Minimal Our highly competitive compensation package and outstanding benefits include: Benefits starting Day 1 Competitive starting pay On-the-job training and A culture that strongly believes in promoting from within Medical Dental Vision 401k with company match Life Insurance Disability Insurance Paid vacations and holidays Safety is one of West Fraser’s core values and our employees can expect a challenging, stable work environment with career development opportunities. Apply: If you are ready to build your career in a company that thrives on growth, internal promotions, training, safe work environment, rewarding work, challenge, and opportunity, come build your career with us at West Fraser: www.westfraser.com/jobs 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 Education Required GED or better Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Keywords: West Fraser, Summerville , Operating Apprentice 1, Logistics, Transportation & Drivers , Irmo, South Carolina