Job Summary: The Mill Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of mill operations, including production, inventory management, equipment maintenance, employee supervision, safety compliance, quality control, and operational efficiency. This position ensures the mill operates safely, efficiently, and profitably while meeting customer expectations and company objectives. The Mill Manager works closely with sales, purchasing, logistics, and executive leadership to optimize production processes, manage resources effectively, and support business growth.
Key Responsibilities:Production & Operations Management
- Direct and oversee daily mill operations to ensure production goals are achieved.
- Develop production schedules and coordinate resources to meet customer demand.
- Monitor production performance, efficiency, and throughput.
- Ensure products are manufactured according to company quality standards and customer specifications.
- Identify operational bottlenecks and implement solutions to improve productivity.
- Coordinate production activities with sales, purchasing, inventory, and transportation teams.
Leadership & Employee Development
- Supervise, coach, and develop mill employees and supervisors.
- Assist with hiring, onboarding, training, and performance management activities.
- Establish performance expectations and accountability standards.
- Promote teamwork, communication, and employee engagement.
- Develop succession planning and workforce development initiatives.
Safety & Regulatory Compliance
- Promote and maintain a culture of safety throughout the facility.
- Ensure compliance with company safety policies and applicable regulatory requirements.
- Conduct safety meetings, inspections, and audits.
- Investigate workplace incidents and implement corrective actions.
- Ensure employees receive proper training and maintain required certifications.
Quality Control
- Establish and maintain quality standards and inspection procedures.
- Monitor production processes to ensure consistent product quality.
- Investigate quality concerns and implement corrective actions.
- Work with customers and internal teams to resolve quality-related issues.
- Promote continuous improvement initiatives related to product quality.
Inventory & Material Management
- Monitor raw material, work-in-process, and finished goods inventory levels.
- Coordinate material requirements with purchasing and supply chain teams.
- Ensure inventory accuracy through proper controls and physical inventory processes.
- Minimize waste and maximize material utilization.
- Analyze inventory trends and recommend improvements.
Equipment & Facility Management
- Oversee maintenance and repair activities for mill equipment and facilities.
- Develop and maintain preventive maintenance programs.
- Coordinate equipment upgrades, replacements, and capital improvement projects.
- Monitor equipment performance and reliability.
- Ensure facilities and equipment remain safe and operational.
Financial & Business Management
- Develop and manage operational budgets.
- Monitor labor, material, maintenance, and operating costs.
- Analyze financial and operational performance metrics.
- Recommend strategies to improve profitability and operational efficiency.
- Support long-range planning and business growth initiatives.
Process Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve production processes and operational performance.
- Implement lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Utilize operational metrics to drive decision-making and performance improvements.
- Stay informed of industry trends, technology, and best practices.
Qualifications and Requirements:Education & Experience
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations Management, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, Forestry, Wood Products, or a related field preferred.
- Five or more years of manufacturing, mill, production, or industrial operations experience required.
- Previous supervisory or management experience required.
- Experience in lumber manufacturing, wood products, building materials, or related industries preferred.
- Experience managing budgets, production schedules, and operational performance preferred.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong knowledge of manufacturing, mill operations, production planning, and inventory management.
- Strong leadership and employee development skills.
- Knowledge of workplace safety regulations and quality management principles.
- Ability to analyze operational data and implement process improvements.
- Ability to analyze technical problems, determine root causes, and develop remediation strategies for permanent resolutions.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to recommend changes to drive business objectives.
- Ability to assess situations to determine the importance, urgency, and risks, making clear decisions that are timely and in the best interests of the organization.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of proprietary information.
- Strong organizational and project management skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and business software applications.
Once eligible, you will participate in our ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan), a unique benefit that can provide a financial source for your future/retirement that very few companies offer. We also offer our employees competitive pay as well as the benefits listed below:Additional Benefits Include:- Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans
- 100% Employer Paid Group Term Life, AD&D, and STD
- Additional Voluntary Life, AD&D, and LTD
- Paid Time Off & Holiday Pay
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- 401(k) Plan
- Scholarship & Tuition Assistance Programs
- Employee Assistance Program
