Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of construction and manufacturing, the importance of a Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator has never been more evident.

As industries evolve, the demand for skilled operators who can efficiently manage, streamline, and maintain our lumber handling operations grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the scope of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the inner workings of lumber handling,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator Duties and Responsibilities

A Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator performs a variety of tasks related to handling, organizing, and transporting lumber in a lumber yard.

They operate a telehandler, a machine similar to a forklift but with a telescopic boom that can extend forwards and upwards, providing greater versatility in movement.

Lumber Yard Telehandler Operators are primarily responsible for maintaining the lumber yard and ensuring efficient and safe operations, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Operate a telehandler to move and stack lumber in the yard
• Perform daily maintenance checks on the telehandler and other equipment
• Report any mechanical or performance issues to management
• Load and unload lumber from trucks
• Coordinate with team members to ensure efficient workflow and to meet production targets
• Assess lumber for quality, sorting and discarding any defective items
• Adhere to safety regulations and procedures, including wearing appropriate safety gear
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring all lumber is properly sorted and stored
• Assist with inventory counts and tracking
• Communicate any issues or concerns to management

 

Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and diligent Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator to join our team.

The successful candidate will operate the telehandler and other heavy machinery, move materials around our facilities, and ensure a safe and efficient work environment.

Our ideal candidate is someone with a strong understanding of safety protocols, good physical stamina, and keen attention to detail.

As a Telehandler Operator, you will need to communicate effectively, follow instructions, and work as part of a team.

 

Responsibilities

• Operate the telehandler and other machinery in a safe and efficient manner
• Load and unload materials from trucks and move them to the appropriate locations
• Conduct regular maintenance checks on machinery and report any issues
• Comply with all safety regulations and procedures
• Coordinate with team members to move large loads efficiently
• Organize and stack materials in designated areas
• Assist with other tasks in the lumber yard as needed

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Telehandler Operator or similar role
• Valid certification to operate telehandlers
• Strong understanding of safety regulations and operating procedures
• Good physical condition and stamina
• Excellent coordination and attention to detail
• Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator
• Work Environment: Outdoors, in all weather conditions. Requires physical strength and stamina.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Yard Supervisor or Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and any relevant certifications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator Do?

A Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator usually works at a lumber yard or in the construction industry where heavy lifting and transportation of lumber is needed.

Their primary task is to operate the telehandler, a machine that is often used to move heavy loads in hard-to-reach areas.

This includes loading and unloading lumber from trucks, stacking lumber in storage areas, and moving lumber to different parts of the yard or construction site.

The operator needs to perform daily safety checks on the telehandler to ensure it’s operating properly.

This includes checking the hydraulic and brake systems, as well as the condition of the forks and other lifting equipment.

Apart from operating the telehandler, the operator may also be responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the work area and ensuring the safe storage of the lumber.

They may also be asked to assist in the inventory management, keeping track of the type and quantity of lumber that comes in and goes out of the yard.

Safety is a critical aspect of this role, as the operator needs to adhere to safety regulations to avoid accidents and injuries.

This includes wearing the appropriate safety gear, operating the equipment safely, and being aware of their surroundings at all times.

The Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator must also have good communication skills, as they need to coordinate with other team members and possibly communicate with truck drivers or customers.

 

Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator Qualifications and Skills

A competent Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator should possess certain skills and qualifications that align with the job role, including:

• Experience in operating telehandler machinery and other heavy equipment in a lumber yard or similar industrial setting.
• Understanding of safety protocols and procedures in a lumber yard, and the ability to apply them during work to avoid accidents.
• Physical fitness to handle the strenuous tasks involved in the job, including loading, unloading, and moving heavy loads.
• Sharp visual acuity to accurately measure and assess the quality of lumber, and ensure secure and precise handling of materials.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination for operating machinery, and for safely and efficiently handling lumber.
• Strong problem-solving skills to quickly identify and fix issues that may arise during operations.
• Good communication skills to effectively coordinate with other team members and report to supervisors.
• Basic maintenance skills to conduct regular checks and perform minor repairs on machinery.
• A valid driver’s license and certification to operate telehandler machinery and other heavy equipment as required by local laws and regulations.

 

Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator Experience Requirements

Entry-level telehandler operators at a lumber yard typically require about 1 to 2 years of related experience, often acquired through part-time roles or internships involving heavy equipment operation.

Many operators gain practical experience through on-site training in roles such as a Yard Worker or Forklift Operator.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their skills and knowledge in entry-level Telehandler Operator roles and are familiar with the safety regulations and operational procedures of handling such equipment in a lumber yard.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have leadership experience and can be considered for roles such as Yard Supervisor or Team Leader.

They are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of the telehandler operation, safety protocols, maintenance, and the ability to manage a team in a high-risk environment like a lumber yard.

Regardless of the level of experience, all telehandler operators are expected to have valid certification from a recognized training program, demonstrating their competence to operate such machinery safely and efficiently.

 

Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator Education and Training Requirements

Lumber Yard Telehandler Operators typically require a high school diploma or equivalent to begin their career.

Basic knowledge in mathematics for measurements and calculations, and understanding of mechanical systems is a plus.

They need to undergo on-the-job training which includes understanding the machinery, safety protocols, and the nuances of handling different types of lumber.

Many companies and vocational schools offer certificate programs for heavy equipment operations, including telehandler operation, that can be advantageous for job prospects.

In addition, they should acquire a commercial driver’s license (CDL) if the telehandler operation includes on-road driving.

Some states may require telehandler operators to hold a special crane license or certification.

Continuing education and training on updated safety measures, machine operations, and maintenance are highly recommended for career advancement and maintaining a safe working environment.

Also, physically demanding nature of the job calls for good health and physical stamina.

 

Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator Salary Expectations

A Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator earns an average salary of $34,500 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on factors such as the operator’s level of experience, the location of the lumber yard, and the company’s pay policy.

 

Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator need?

A Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator should have excellent motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and physical strength as the job involves the operation of heavy machinery.

Being able to work in a team and having good communication skills are also important, as they often need to coordinate with other team members.

Additionally, they should have good understanding of safety protocols and operational procedures.

 

Do Lumber Yard Telehandler Operators need a specific qualification?

While a high school diploma or equivalent is generally enough for this role, some companies might require a certification in heavy equipment operation.

Experience in a similar role, especially within a lumber yard, can be very beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator resume?

Look for any experience in handling heavy machinery, especially telehandlers.

Any safety training or certification is a plus.

Apart from that, experience in teamwork, ability to work in high-stress environments, and understanding of lumber yard operations are also valuable.

 

What qualities make a good Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator?

A good Lumber Yard Telehandler Operator should be reliable and diligent, as the job requires handling heavy and potentially dangerous machinery.

They should also have good teamwork skills and be capable of following instructions accurately.

Being physically fit is also a plus, as the job can sometimes involve lifting heavy loads.

 

Is it difficult to hire Lumber Yard Telehandler Operators?

Hiring Lumber Yard Telehandler Operators can be challenging due to the specific skill set and experience required for the job.

However, offering competitive wages and a safe work environment can attract skilled operators.

It can be beneficial to partner with trade schools or technical colleges for recruitment.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve given you an insight into the life of a lumber yard telehandler operator.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about operating heavy machinery.

It’s about constructing the foundations of our everyday life, one load at a time.

Armed with our handy lumber yard telehandler operator job description template and concrete examples, you’re ready to gear up for your next move.

But why put the brakes on now?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next stop for precision-crafted job listings or for honing your resume to absolute precision.

Keep in mind:

Every load carried contributes to the bigger structure.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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