Overview
Woodworking machine operators set up, program and operate one or more woodworking machines to fabricate or repair wooden parts for furniture, fixtures or other wood products. They are employed in furniture, fixture and other wood products manufacturing establishments.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Set up, program and operate one or more computer numerically controlled (CNC) or manual woodworking machines such as saws, moulders, lathes, routers, planers, edgers, pressing machines, shapers, drills and sanders to fabricate or repair wooden parts for furniture, fixtures and other wood products
Operate gluing machines to glue pieces of wood together or press and affix wood veneer to wood surfaces
Operate preset special-purpose woodworking machines to fabricate wood products such as coat hangers, mop handles, clothes pins and other products
Read and interpret specifications or follow verbal instructions
May clean and lubricate equipment, and replace parts as necessary.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$39,626
$52,140
$70,681
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
90expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Some secondary school education is usually required.
On-the-job training is usually provided.
Experience as a labourer in the same company may be required.
Additional information
Mobility is common among jobs in this unit group.
Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
No post-secondary education required
No post-secondary education required. You can work in this career without post-secondary education. Some on the job training may be provided. With additional training or experience, you may be able to progress into higher level, supervisory or management positions.