Sawmill Production Worker - Tonewood
Bourgeois Guitars
Lewiston, ME | USA
Full Time
About Us
Bourgeois Guitars is a world-renowned maker of high-end acoustic instruments, headquartered in Lewiston, Maine. Our sawmill operation produces premium red spruce and hardwood tonewoods used in Bourgeois instruments and supplied to respected partners and luthiers around the world. We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern milling practices to create materials thatmeet the highest standards of acoustic performance. As part of a small, dedicated team, our employees play a direct role in shaping the quality, consistency, and artistry that Bourgeois Guitars is known for.
Job Summary
The Sawmill Operator / Production Worker (Tonewood) supports the day-to-day processing of red spruce and hardwood logs into instrument-grade materials for Bourgeois Guitars and our partners. This role involves hands-on work with sawmill machinery, material handling, quality checks, and general production support.
In addition to core production work, this position may take on increasing responsibility in coordinating workflow, supporting equipment setup and adjustments, and contributing to decisions around how logs are processed to maximize material quality and yield. The ideal candidate is reliable, safety-minded, mechanically inclined, and takes pride in contributing to the creation of high-quality tonewood used in world-class instruments.
Key Responsibilities
Process red spruce and hardwood logs into instrument-grade tonewood components.
Evaluate logs and determine appropriate cutting approaches to maximize yield and quality.
Perform saw setup, adjustments, changeovers, and routine equipment maintenance.
Conduct quality checks to ensure materials meet instrument-grade standards.
Monitor material flow and production output to support overall mill productivity.
Communicate observations about log quality, cutting strategy, or equipment performance to help optimize production. Help coordinate daily production tasks across the sawmill.
Train or support newer employees in safe and effective production practices as experience grows.
Contribute to problem-solving when production challenges arise.
Perform basic inventory tasks such as labeling, counting, and organizing finished materials.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment including sweeping, debris removal, and general shop upkeep.
Follow all safety policies and use proper PPE at all times.
Communicate effectively with the production team to maintain efficient workflow. Take ownership of maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and organization on the mill floor.
Qualifications
Strong work ethic and dependable attendance.
Ability to safely perform physical labor, including lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, and working in a fast-paced production environment.
Willingness to learn sawmill processes, machinery basics, and tonewood standards.
Basic ability to read measurements and use common hand tools.
Familiarity with common power tools and shop equipment (e.g., saws, drills, sanders).
Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
Ability to follow safety procedures and use required PPE.
Positive attitude and ability to work well as part of a small team.
Ability to take initiative and help guide work on the mill floor to maintain safe, efficient
production.
Preferred Experience
Previous experience in woodworking, carpentry, sawmill, lumberyard, or manufacturing environments.
Forklift experience or certification.
Mechanical aptitude or experience assisting with equipment maintenance.
Experience helping coordinate workflow or supporting production leadership in a shop or manufacturing environment.
Candidates with strong sawmill or leadership experience who are interested in growing into increased operational responsibility are encouraged to apply.
Employment Type
Full-time position (minimum 40 hours per week), with occasional overtime as needed to support production goals and meet customer demand.
Benefits
Medical, Dental, Vision, Matching 401(k), Paid Holidays and Vacation
Compensation
Compensation will be commensurate with experience, with opportunities to take on increased responsibility and grow into a larger operational role within the sawmill.
Applying
To apply, please email your résumé and cover letter to rwebster@bourgeoisguitars.com.
Please, no unsolicited phone calls.