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Sawmill Operator - How to get into this job

Kaimahi Whare Kani Papa

Entry Requirements

There are no specific entry requirements to become a sawmill operator, although a fork-lift licence may be useful.

Secondary Education

There are no specific secondary school education requirements, but School Certificate or NCEA Level 1maths and English are seen as an advantage by most employers.

Get help with choosing school subjects

Tertiary Education

A National Certificate in Solid Wood Processing is useful for becoming a sawmill operator.

Training on the job

Sawmill operators are mainly trained on the job and can complete a National Certificate in Solid Wood Processing through FITEC.

FITEC Woodcareers website - information about career paths in solid wood processing (sawmilling)

"We always have new people that we train because that is part of the job. The more experienced workers take a leadership role and watch over the new staff. We do a lot of in-house training."

David Parata - Sawmill Operator