FILER APPRENTICE

## Description

**Filer Apprentice – Job Description (Beasley Group)**

**Overview**

A **Filer Apprentice** is an entry-level position in a sawmill’s saw shop. The role focuses on learning how to maintain, and service saw blades and cutting tools that are essential to lumber production. You work under a senior filer (Head Filer) and support safe, efficient mill operations.

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**Key Responsibilities**

• Learn and follow all saw shop safety procedures and PPE requirements
• Assist with inspecting saw blades for damage, wear, or defects
• Help sharpen, grind, and maintain saws and cutting tools
• Support saw tensioning, leveling, and alignment using precision tools
• Prepare saws for use (cleaning, oiling, verifying specifications)
• Assist in troubleshooting cutting or performance issues (e.g., rough cuts, vibration)
• Maintain shop cleanliness and organization
• Track and document saw maintenance, repairs, and performance
• Safely handle and transport saws using carts or hoists
• Work with production teams to coordinate repairs and replacements

These tasks directly support production efficiency, product quality, and equipment uptime.
## Qualifications
**Requirements**

• High school diploma or GED (preferred)
• Strong attention to safety and detail
• Basic math and measurement skills (fractions, tape measure)
• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn hands-on work
• Ability to work in a noisy, dusty industrial environment
• Reliable attendance and flexibility for shifts/overtime

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• **Preferred (Not Required)**

• Experience in sawmills, manufacturing, or maintenance
• Familiarity with saw equipment or sharpening tools
• Experience using measuring tools
• Basic welding or tool-room experience

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• **Work Environment**

• Industrial sawmill setting
• Exposure to noise, dust, and heavy machinery
• Physically active (standing, lifting, handling equipment)
• Must be able to lift over 50 lbs. in repetitive tolerances
• Must be able to work weekends and holidays
• You must also be able to work 12-hour shifts

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• **Career Path**

This role is designed as a training position. With experience, a Filer Apprentice can advance to

• Saw Filer (skilled trade role)
• Maintenance technician
• Specialized tool or equipment technician

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**Summary**

The Filer Apprentice role is essentially a **skilled-trade training position** focused on precision maintenance of sawmill cutting equipment. It combines mechanical work, safety discipline, and hands-on learning in a production environment.