Head Saw Filer

Job Description

Job Description

Position: Head Saw Filer

Reports to: Site Maintenance & Reliability Manager

FLSA Status: Exempt

Position Overview: The Head Filer manages and provides technical oversight for the saw filing program supporting sawmill, planer, and moulding operations. The expanding filing room includes new Burton round saw grinders and new Williams & White bandsaw servicing equipment, including a CNC guide grinder and auto-bench.

This position ensures that saws, knives, guides, and filing room equipment are maintained to maximize safety, lumber recovery, product quality, equipment reliability, and operational efficiency. The Head Saw Filer leads the saw filing department, establishes maintenance standards and priorities, and works closely with maintenance and production leadership to support the Company’s operational objectives.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee all aspects of the saw filing program to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of saws, knives, guides, and related equipment.
• Provide leadership, direction, training, and development for the Saw Filer Lead and saw filing personnel.
• Establish and maintain saw filing standards, procedures, and preventive maintenance programs.
• Monitor equipment performance and implement improvements that maximize lumber recovery, product quality, and operational efficiency.
• Coordinate maintenance priorities and schedules with production and maintenance departments to minimize downtime.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts and support continuous improvement initiatives related to saw performance and equipment reliability.
• Manage filing room inventory, supplies, budgets, and vendor relationships, as assigned.
• Ensure compliance with all company safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Support company goals, operational objectives, and strategic initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of five years of saw filing experience in a sawmill or related wood products manufacturing environment required.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Advanced knowledge of saw filing equipment, maintenance techniques, alignment, tensioning, and preventive maintenance practices.
• Strong understanding of sawmill and planer operations, including how saw performance affects recovery, quality, and production.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lead and develop employees while collaborating effectively across departments.
• Strong organizational, communication, and computer skills.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.