Mechanical Lathe Technician

Boise Cascade has been in the business of manufacturing wood products and distributing building materials for over half a century. Today we’re one of the largest manufacturers of plywood and engineered wood products in North America – and the only wholesale stocking distributor for building products that can service the entire United States. Because our business is built on relationships, our employees are critical to our success. And we’re committed to investing in them. That’s why we offer a benefits package designed to have a positive impact on all areas of your life – from health and well-being, career and community, to financial security and personal safety.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled Veneer Lathe Technician to join our team. In this exciting role, you will be responsible for operating lathes and ensuring veneer production remains within specification while maintaining optimal uptime and equipment reliability. This position requires an extensive mechanical background, strong troubleshooting skills, and the ability to plan and execute complex maintenance activities independently. The Veneer Lathe Technician will also collaborate with vendors and internal leadership to plan and support major repairs and capital improvement projects. Lathe Technicians are responsible for the safety of themselves and the employees working with and around the technician at all times:

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure veneer thickness, quality, and production output remain within established specifications.
• Perform advanced mechanical troubleshooting and repairs on veneer lathes and associated equipment.
• Diagnose hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and control system issues.
• Develop and execute preventive and predictive maintenance plans. 
• Plan and coordinate major equipment rebuilds, overhauls, and downtime events.
• Work independently to prioritize and complete work orders with minimal supervision.
• Assist in planning and implementation of equipment upgrades and process improvements. 
• Work independently to prioritize and complete work orders with minimal supervision. 
• Collaborate with vendors on technical evaluations, scope development, and execution of capital projects.
• Assist in planning and implementation of equipment upgrades and process improvements. 
• Maintain accurate documentation for maintenance activities and capital work. 
• Promote and maintain a strong safety culture in all work performed. 

Qualifications

• Extensive mechanical background in industrial manufacturing environments.
• Demonstrated experience maintaining and troubleshooting veneer lathes or similar high-speed production equipment.
• Strong understanding of hydraulics, bearings, drive systems, gearboxes, and alignment.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and schematics.
• Proven ability to plan work, manage downtime efficiently, and execute projects from concept to completion.
• Experience coordinating with vendors and contractors on major repairs and capital installations.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in wood products or veneer manufacturing.
• PLC troubleshooting experience.
• Project management experience related to capital improvements.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Stable manufacturing environment with opportunities for advancement.
• Opportunity to play a critical role in equipment reliability and plant performance.

• Medical + Prescription Drug
• Dental + Vision
• 401(k) Retirement Savings

The Lathe Technician will lead conduct centering checks each shift they are present for, at least 2 blocks per lathe a shift following the criteria below. At least once a week there must be a five (5) block per lathe test that will be completed on Day Shift:

High School Diploma / GED Required.

Department: Green End

Reports To: Departmental Supervisor/ Departmental Superintendent

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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