Kiln Manager

Kiln Manager Job Description

Position Title:  Kiln Manager

Reports To:  General Manager, MBLC Division

Position Summary

The Kiln Manager is responsible for overseeing all kiln drying operations to ensure lumber products are dried safely, efficiently, and to the required quality standards. This role manages kiln schedules, drying programs, quality control, maintenance coordination, staffing, and operational performance while ensuring compliance with all safety and environmental regulations.

The Kiln Manager provides leadership to kiln operators, Boiler Chief and support staff, monitors production targets, and works closely with manufacturing and shipping departments to ensure customer requirements are met.

Key Responsibilities

Kiln Operations Management

• Direct and coordinate all daily kiln drying operations.
• Develop and manage kiln schedules to meet production and shipping requirements.
• Monitor kiln performance, drying cycles, moisture content, and product quality.
• Ensure lumber is dried according to species specifications and customer standards.
• Optimize kiln capacity, energy efficiency, and throughput while minimizing degrade and waste.
• Maintain accurate production and inventory records related to kiln operations.

Leadership & Team Management

• Supervise, train, and support kiln operators, Boiler Chief and related personnel.
• Develop work schedules and staffing plans to maintain efficient operations.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching and development opportunities.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement within the department.

 

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce all occupational health and safety policies and procedures.
• Conduct regular safety meetings, inspections, and incident investigations.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and company standards.
• Promote a strong safety culture and safe work practices throughout kiln operations.

Quality Control

• Monitor moisture content and lumber quality to ensure products meet specifications.
• Work with quality control and production teams to resolve drying or product issues.
• Identify and implement process improvements to reduce defects, checking, warp, stain, and other degrade.

Maintenance Coordination

• Coordinate with maintenance personnel to ensure kiln equipment reliability and efficiency.
• Participate in preventive maintenance planning and shutdown scheduling.
• Identify equipment issues and support troubleshooting and repair activities.

Budgeting & Performance Management

• Assist in managing departmental budgets and operational costs.
• Monitor energy usage, production efficiency, downtime, and kiln performance metrics.
• Prepare reports on production, quality, safety, and maintenance performance.
• Recommend operational improvements and capital investments where appropriate.

Qualifications

• Postsecondary education in forestry, wood products manufacturing, engineering, operations management, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in kiln drying, lumber manufacturing, or industrial operations.
• Supervisory or management experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of lumber drying processes, kiln schedules, moisture control, and wood species characteristics.
• Familiarity with computerized kiln control systems and production reporting.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and production management software.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with continuous improvement and process optimization initiatives.
• Knowledge of preventive maintenance systems.
• Understanding of lumber grading and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment.

Working Conditions

• Industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, noise, dust, and machinery.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional weekends or extended shifts as operational demands require.
• Frequent walking, standing, climbing, and interaction with production equipment and personnel.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Health and dental benefits.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement.

 How to Apply:

Please email your resume and cover letter to hr@haliburtonforest.com or rhutchins@haliburtonforest.com.