General Operative - Sawmill

  • Glennon Brothers
  • Humbie, East Lothian
  • Oct 10, 2026
Full time Engineering

Job Description

Principle Objective

Reporting to the relevant Shift Supervisor or Team Lead, the General Operative - Sawmill is

Principle Objective

Reporting to the relevant Shift Supervisor or Team Lead, the General Operative - Sawmill is responsible for supporting the safe, efficient and well organised day to day operation of the sawmill. The role involves working as part of a production team, carrying out assigned operational tasks, maintaining safety and quality standards, and contributing to productivity, housekeeping and continuous improvement across the site

Knowledge & Experience
  • Experience in a sawmill, manufacturing, production or similar operational environment is desirable but not essential.
  • Awareness of health and safety requirements and safe systems of work, or a willingness to learn and follow them.
  • Experience working effectively as part of a team in a practical, operational setting.
  • A hands on, reliable and safety conscious approach to work.
  • Flexibility to support different areas of the sawmill operation as required.
  • Relevant training, licences or certifications are advantageous but not required, as full training will be provided.
  • Formal qualifications are not essential where the right attitude, aptitude and willingness to learn are demonstrated.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate within all health, safety, and environmental standards, policies, and safe systems of work.
  • Carry out sawmill production tasks in line with standard operating procedures.
  • Operate tools, machinery, and equipment safely and report any faults or hazards.
  • Support material handling activities including feeding, stacking, grading, banding, and packing timber products.
  • Maintain clean, safe, and organised working areas (housekeeping standards).
  • Conduct basic quality checks and elevate issues where required.
  • Work collaboratively with team members to achieve daily production targets.
  • Follow supervisor instructions and support effective shift handovers.
  • Participate actively in training, safety briefings, toolbox talks, and improvement initiatives.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement and operational efficiency across the site.
Essential Competencies
  • Safety Awareness - Demonstrates commitment to safe working practices.
  • Teamwork - Works effectively and cooperatively with others.
  • Reliability & Work Ethic - Consistent attendance and dependable performance.
  • Attention to Detail - Maintains quality standards in all tasks.
  • Adaptability - Flexible and willing to support different tasks/areas.
  • Communication - Listens, understands, and follows instructions clearly.
Key Performance Measures
  • Adherence to health and safety standards and zero harm objectives.
  • Achievement of daily/shift production targets.
  • Quality compliance and reduction in defects.
  • Housekeeping and audit standards.
  • Attendance, punctuality, and reliability.
  • Participation in training and continuous improvement activities.
Key Relationships
  • Shift Supervisors and Team Leaders
  • Production and Log Yard Teams
  • Engineering and Maintenance Teams
  • Health, Safety, and Quality Personnel