Experienced Loader Driver (Natchez) at Jones Capital in Mississippi

Log Yard Loader Driver

Department: Log Yard | Reports to: Log Yard Foreman | Location: Natchez, MS

What Makes Our Culture Different We run on five core values: Integrity, Passion, Unity, Sustainability, and Humility. That means we do the right thing when no one is watching, we care deeply about our craft, and we win as one team. Safety, teamwork, and genuine care for our people guide how we operate every shift. Why This Role Matters Nothing gets made until logs are unloaded, sorted, and delivered to the mill. The Log Yard Loader Operator keeps that flow moving. Every load you handle safely and sort correctly protects our people, our equipment, and the quality of the grade hardwood lumber and access mats we produce. Position Summary The Log Yard Loader Operator runs yard loading equipment to unload trucks, sort and deck logs, and keep the mill supplied with the right material at the right time. This is an experienced, hands-on role that demands sound judgment around moving equipment and people. The operator reports to the Log Yard Foreman and works closely with scalers, truck drivers, and the production crew. Primary Responsibilities Safety and Compliance

Operate loaders and yard equipment safely and follow all site safety rules and OSHA requirements. Complete pre-shift equipment inspections and report hazards or defects immediately. Maintain awareness of pedestrians, truck traffic, and other equipment at all times. Participate in toolbox talks and support a culture of looking out for one another.

Log Handling and Sorting

Unload inbound log trucks safely and efficiently. Sort logs by species, grade, and length according to yard standards. Build neat, stable decks and keep the yard organized for safe access. Rotate inventory as directed to control quality and minimize decay.

Mill Supply

Feed logs to the debarker and infeed decks to keep production running steadily. Communicate with the Log Yard Foreman and production crew about material needs and shortages. Handle logs carefully to reduce damage, breakage, and waste.

Equipment Care

Perform daily servicing and cleaning, including greasing and fluid checks. Report mechanical issues early and work with maintenance to limit downtime. Keep the cab and work area clean and free of debris.

Additional Support

Assist with yard cleanup, housekeeping, and other tasks as assigned by the Log Yard Foreman.

Key Performance Indicators

Zero safety incidents and consistent completion of pre-shift inspections. Trucks unloaded promptly with minimal wait time. Logs sorted accurately by species, grade, and length. Steady material supply to the mill with minimal interruptions. Low log damage and equipment damage. Dependable attendance and punctuality.

Qualifications and Skills Required Technical Skills

Proven ability to operate a wheel loader or log loader in a production setting. Ability to judge log grade, species, and quality while sorting. Strong spatial awareness and precise equipment control. Basic equipment inspection and daily maintenance skills.

Preferred Technical Skills

Experience with Cat or John Deere wheel loaders. Experience with log trucks, debarkers, or sawmill infeed systems. Familiarity with log scaling or yard inventory practices.

Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent preferred. 3+ years of heavy equipment or log yard loader experience.

Industry Knowledge

Experience in a hardwood sawmill or log yard is strongly preferred.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and to sit for extended periods in a loader cab. Ability to climb on and off equipment and perform routine servicing. Ability to work scheduled shifts and occasional overtime as production requires.

The Ideal Candidate Soft Skills and Traits

Safety-minded: never trades speed for safety and speaks up when something is not right. Steady and precise: stays calm and accurate during busy truck traffic. Dependable: shows up on time and keeps the yard moving. Team player: communicates clearly with drivers, scalers, and the mill crew. Takes pride in the work: treats equipment and material with care.

Working Style and Team Fit The ideal Log Yard Loader Operator is a skilled, steady professional who takes ownership of the yard and is proud of a well-run deck. They live our values. Integrity in doing the job right when no one is watching, Passion for skilled equipment work, Unity in supporting the whole crew, Sustainability in reducing waste and damage, and Humility in pitching in wherever needed. Growth Opportunities This role can grow into a Lead Operator, Log Yard Foreman, or other operations leadership position over time. We invest in our people, and your growth is part of our plan.