Job Title: Packdown Assistant – End of Line Handler

Company: Associated Hardwoods, Inc.
Location: Granite Falls, NC
Department: Packdown Plant
Reports To: Production Supervisor

Position Summary

Associated Hardwoods, Inc. is seeking a reliable and safety-minded Packdown Assistant – End of Line Handler to support operations in the Packdown plant. This role is responsible for manually handling lumber as it exits the layer maker, ensuring each stack is aligned, secure, and meets production quality standards. The ideal candidate will have strong physical stamina, a team-oriented attitude, and the ability to work efficiently in a lumber production environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • End-of-Line Support:
    • Receive and align lumber stacks as they come off the layer maker.
    • Ensure consistent stack quality by adjusting boards for alignment and stability.
    • Remove damaged or defective pieces and report abnormalities to the operator.
  • Material Handling & Organization:
    • Safely maneuver and position lumber by hand throughout the shift.
    • Assist with moving finished layers to staging or storage areas as directed.
    • Maintain a clean and organized work area to prevent hazards and disruptions.
  • Safety & Compliance:
    • Follow all safety procedures and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
    • Remain alert to the movement of machinery and product flow.
    • Immediately report any unsafe conditions or equipment issues to supervision.
  • Team Collaboration & Support:
    • Communicate clearly with the Layer Maker operator to coordinate workflow.
    • Assist in other general labor duties or plant operations as needed.
    • Support overall production goals by maintaining a consistent work pace.

Qualifications & Skills

  • Education & Experience:
    • High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
    • Previous experience in a lumber yard, manufacturing, or general labor setting is a plus.
  • Technical & Physical Skills:
    • Ability to work safely and efficiently in a physically demanding role.
    • Basic understanding of lumber sizes and stacking requirements.
    • Comfort working around machinery in a production environment.
  • Soft Skills & Work Ethic:
    • Dependable, team-oriented, and committed to following instructions.
    • Attention to detail to ensure stack quality and workplace safety.
    • Willingness to perform repetitive physical tasks throughout the shift.

Working Conditions

  • Shift Work: May require early start times, overtime, or schedule adjustments based on production needs.
  • Environment: Work is conducted in a lumber processing facility with exposure to wood dust, noise, and fluctuating temperatures depending on the season.
  • Protective Equipment: Use of PPE (gloves, hearing protection, safety glasses and vests, etc.) is required.

Physical Requirements

  • Lifting and Carrying: Frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds unassisted.
  • Standing and Walking: Remain on feet and move around the work area for extended periods.
  • Repetitive Motion: Continuous use of hands and arms for adjusting and stacking lumber.
  • Bending and Stooping: Regular bending and twisting to align boards or reposition stacks.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive hourly wage based on experience.
  • Company-paid health insurance and short-term disability.
  • Dental & vision insurance options.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Paid holidays and vacation time.
  • Bonus opportunities.

Typical Schedule

  • Monday – Thursday: 6:00 AM – 3:30 PM
  • Friday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
  • Schedule may adjust based on business needs.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Associated Hardwoods, Inc., is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.