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OFO’s expansion means a new kiln operator is needed

OneFortyOne’s Jubilee Sawmill is amid a site-wide modernisation program, which has seen state-of-the-art equipment upgrades, the addition of robotics to assist packing and wrapping timber, and new multimillion-dollar continuous drying kilns. Source: Timberbiz

To add to this futureproofing work in Mount Gambier, Kilns Manager Michael Olle and the Jubilee Sawmill team are now recruiting another kilns operator.

Mr Olle said it’s about finding the right person, not necessarily the most experienced.

“We want to open this job up to find the right person with the right attitude, who may not necessarily have the most if any experience,” he said.

“Most of the job is operating a 20-tonne forklift to load and unload our continuous drying kilns, troubleshooting any issues, and communicating with other teams onsite.”

Experience isn’t necessary as training can be provided.

“This position has been designed so you’ll be buddied with an experienced operator,” Mr Olle said.

“They’ll be mentoring you and guiding you through our processes for the first few months.

“There is an annualised salary tied to the role, with five weeks annual leave and depending on shifts you could have two, three or four days off between rotations,” he said.

“The most challenging part of this job is the rotating roster. It rotates through day, afternoon, and night shifts and every two weeks you’ll do a 12-hour shift to allow for the next rotation.

“You’re also responsible for shift coverage so need to be flexible with your time.”

Mr Olle said it has been exciting to see investment in new technologies throughout the business.

“Along with the new kilns, we have new forklifts and use the latest technology across site,” he said.

“With the Kilns Operator position there’s potential to eventually move around to different roles across the Sawmill or even the forest.

“We’re starting to futureproof our workforce, bringing some different people on board, and the kilns operator position is a great opportunity to be a part of that.”

For more information on the kilns operator position and others at OneFortyOne, see the careers section on the website at www.onefortyone.com