Yard Laborer / Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Yard Laborer / Framer

Company: BELL LUMBER & POLE COMPANY LLC

Location: New Brighton, MN, US

Job Type: Full-time Regular

Category: Operations - Manufacturing & Production

Date Posted: 2026-04-27T19:44:00

Experience Level: Entry-Level to Junior (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for the production floor, focusing on the physical preparation and framing of wood poles to meet stringent industry standards.

• Responsibilities include manual labor, precise measurement, and the use of hand and power tools for shaving, trimming, and marking poles.

• The Yard Laborer/Framer will contribute to the operational efficiency of the pole yard by ensuring all products meet customer specifications and quality benchmarks.

• This position offers a clear path for individuals seeking a career in manufacturing and production with a stable, family-owned company that values its employees.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title "Yard Laborer / Framer" and the description focus on manual production tasks, the emphasis on "career that has growth potential" and "values excellence, stewardship, and entrepreneurial spirit" suggests a supportive environment for skill development and advancement within the company's operations. The mention of adhering to ANSI, AWAP, ASTM, REA grading standards indicates a need for precision and quality control, aligning with operational excellence principles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Perform manual shaving of wood poles using a draw knife to remove missed areas from mechanical shavers and repair any damaged spots.

• Measure and accurately mark poles for the precise locations of gains, holes, tags, and other associated parts according to customer specifications.

• Measure poles to ensure compliance with ANSI, AWAP, ASTM, and REA grading standards for ground lines, tops, and knots.

• Inspect poles for any defects, identifying limited or prohibited issues and applying proper grading rules.

• Drill holes in poles with precision and accuracy as per customer framing instructions.

• Execute proper ground-line preparation on poles as required by specific orders.

• Install all associated markings on poles, including star locks, marking tags, specialty tags, and burn brands, according to customer specifications.

• Assist with other physical tasks within the operations yard as assigned by management to ensure smooth workflow and operational efficiency.

• Maintain accurate records of work performed and submit reports as required, contributing to production tracking and quality control.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of manual craftsmanship and adherence to technical specifications. For an operations context, this means the role requires meticulous attention to detail, understanding of quality assurance (grading standards), and efficient execution of physical tasks to maintain production throughput. The emphasis on "assisting with other duties" points to a flexible team-oriented operational environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma, GED, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.

Experience:

• Experience in a saw mill, pole yard, lumber mill, or similar industrial production environment is preferred.

• Experience working in an outdoor environment with variable weather conditions is advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in using hand tools, including a tape measure, and the ability to operate a chain saw (or a strong aptitude to learn quickly).

• Ability to perform accurate measurements and markings on wood products.

• Strong understanding of or ability to quickly learn and apply grading standards (e.g., ANSI, AWAP, ASTM, REA).

• Physical stamina and ability to perform manual labor, including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods in an outdoor setting.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with woodworking machinery and techniques.

• Familiarity with industrial safety protocols and best practices.

• Ability to identify and assess wood defects.

• Experience in framing or carpentry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical skills and a willingness to learn, typical for entry-level to junior roles in production operations. The preference for mill or outdoor environment experience directly relates to the physical demands and specific context of the job. The inclusion of "ability to learn" is a key indicator for operations roles where process adherence and skill development are continuous.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio may not be required for this specific on-site role, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples of projects or tasks where they demonstrated attention to detail, precision, and adherence to specifications.

• For candidates with prior industrial experience, highlighting projects involving quality control, process adherence, or efficient task completion would be beneficial.

• Evidence of understanding and applying technical specifications or grading standards in previous roles is a plus.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to follow and document established work procedures for pole preparation, framing, and quality inspection.

• Understanding of how accurate measurements and markings contribute to the overall production workflow and customer satisfaction.

• Familiarity with the importance of maintaining a clean and organized work area to ensure safety and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a hands-on operational role like this, the "portfolio" is less about digital presentations and more about demonstrating practical capabilities during an interview or assessment. This section emphasizes the candidate's ability to execute and understand physical processes and quality standards, which are core to manufacturing operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $26.45 per hour.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package available for full-time employees.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match.

• Short-term and long-term disability insurance.

• Life insurance coverage.

• Paid holidays.

• Generous paid time off (PTO).

• Opportunities for professional development.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for support.

• Employee/community hardship programs.

Working Hours: Monday - Friday, 6:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Overtime may be required as needed. This is an outdoor role, subject to variable weather conditions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly rate of $26.45 is competitive for skilled labor roles in the manufacturing and production sector in the New Brighton, MN area, particularly for positions requiring specific technical skills and physical demands. The comprehensive benefits package indicates the company's investment in employee well-being and retention, which is a positive signal for long-term career prospects.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Bell Lumber & Pole Company LLC operates within the Wood Product Manufacturing and Distribution industry, specializing in utility poles and related wood products. This sector requires a strong emphasis on quality, safety, and efficient production processes.

Company Size: Bell Lumber & Pole Company LLC is a medium-sized enterprise. This size often translates to a more personal work environment where employees can have a direct impact, while still having established processes and resources.

Founded: Bell Lumber & Pole Company LLC is a long-standing, family-owned company. This suggests a culture rooted in tradition, employee loyalty, and a commitment to long-term relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Yard Laborer/Framer will be part of the production or yard operations team.

• This team likely works closely with supervisors, lead hands, and other specialized roles within the manufacturing process.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a mission of "radically loving and influencing lives" and operates with values of excellence, stewardship, and entrepreneurial spirit.

• This translates into a focus on high-quality output, responsible resource management, and proactive problem-solving within the operations.

• Data and metrics are likely used to track production efficiency, quality compliance (grading standards), and safety performance.

Company Website: https://blpole.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated mission and values, combined with its family-owned status, suggest a culture that prioritizes employee well-being, community, and a strong work ethic. For operations professionals, this means an environment that may value dedication, teamwork, and a commitment to quality. The mention of "entrepreneurial spirit" hints at opportunities for employees to contribute innovative ideas for process improvement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at the entry-level to junior level within production operations. It provides a foundational understanding of manufacturing processes, material handling, and quality control within the wood products industry.

Reporting Structure: The Yard Laborer/Framer will report to a Production Supervisor or Yard Manager. This structure provides clear guidance and oversight within the operational workflow.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the company's ability to produce high-quality wood poles that meet customer specifications. Accurate framing and adherence to grading standards are critical for product integrity and customer satisfaction, which in turn drives revenue and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunities to become proficient in various hand and power tools, learn advanced framing techniques, and gain expertise in industry grading standards.

• Advancement within Production: Potential progression to Lead Hand, Machine Operator, or other specialized roles within the production facility.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Possibility to gain exposure to other operational areas, such as logistics, inventory management, or quality assurance.

• Leadership Potential: For motivated individuals, there may be opportunities to move into supervisory or team lead roles within operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "growth potential" and "professional development opportunities" suggests that Bell Lumber & Pole Company is invested in developing its workforce. For an operations role, this means candidates should look for opportunities to learn new skills, take on more responsibility, and potentially move into leadership positions within the production and yard operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is primarily an on-site role, with the majority of work conducted in an outdoor production yard and potentially an indoor processing facility.

Office Location(s): New Brighton, Minnesota. The facility is located in an industrial area, likely accessible by public transport or with ample parking for employees.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is outdoors and involves exposure to variable weather conditions throughout the year.

• The workspace includes production areas with machinery, lumber, and tools, requiring a focus on safety and organization.

• Opportunities for collaboration exist with team members in the yard and potentially with supervisors and management.

• Access to necessary tools and equipment for performing job duties will be provided.

Work Schedule: Monday to Friday, 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with the expectation of overtime as needed. This schedule provides a consistent work week with a predictable start time, suitable for planning personal commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The outdoor and variable weather aspect is a critical consideration for candidates. Operations roles in these environments require resilience and adaptability. The consistent schedule is a significant advantage for work-life balance within a demanding operational setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Skills Assessment/Practical Test: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic tool handling, measuring skills, or perform a simple task related to pole preparation in a controlled environment.

• Interview with Hiring Manager/Supervisor: Discussion about experience, work ethic, understanding of safety, and alignment with company values. Questions will likely focus on practical application of skills and problem-solving in an operational context.

• On-site Tour/Meet the Team: Opportunity to see the work environment and meet potential team members.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is less critical than the ability to articulate practical skills and experience.

• Be prepared to discuss specific instances where you demonstrated attention to detail, precision in measurement, or adherence to instructions.

• If you have prior experience in a similar industrial or manual labor setting, highlight your contributions to efficiency, safety, or quality.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer questions about how you handle physically demanding work and varying weather conditions.

• Prepare examples of how you have worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a common goal.

• Think about situations where you had to follow specific instructions or procedures accurately.

• Consider how you approach learning new skills or operating new tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this operational role is likely to be hands-on and practical, evaluating the candidate's ability to perform the core tasks safely and efficiently. Emphasis will be placed on work ethic, attention to detail, and the capacity to learn and follow operational procedures.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hand Tools: Draw knife, various types of knives, hammers, mallets.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measure (essential for accurate measurements).

• Power Tools: Chain saw (for trimming and shaping), drills (for precise hole creation).

• Marking Tools: Pencils, specialized marking tools for lumber.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• This role does not typically involve direct interaction with CRM systems or complex automation software. The focus is on manual execution of production tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is primarily manual and mechanical. Proficiency with basic hand and power tools, particularly measuring and cutting tools, is essential. The emphasis is on the physical execution of tasks rather than sophisticated software.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to producing high-quality wood poles that meet or exceed industry standards. This translates to precision in measurements, framing, and quality inspection.

• Stewardship: Responsible handling of materials and resources, ensuring efficient use of wood products and maintaining a safe, organized work environment.

• Entrepreneurial Spirit: A willingness to contribute ideas for improving operational processes, safety, or efficiency, even in a manual labor role.

• Radical Love and Influence: A core company value that suggests a culture of respect, support, and positive interaction among team members and with management.

Collaboration Style:

• Team members are expected to work cooperatively in the yard to ensure production flows smoothly.

• Open communication regarding tasks, potential issues, and safety concerns is encouraged.

• Mutual support and assistance among colleagues are valued, especially in a physically demanding environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values are a significant differentiator. "Excellence" directly relates to the quality and precision required in this role. "Stewardship" implies accountability for materials and the work environment. The "radical love" value suggests a positive and supportive team dynamic, which is beneficial for any operational team.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Physical Demands: The role requires significant physical stamina, including lifting, standing, bending, and working in various weather conditions.

• Repetitive Tasks: Some tasks may be repetitive, requiring sustained focus and attention to detail to maintain quality and prevent errors.

• Learning Curve: Mastering the use of specific tools, understanding grading standards, and adhering to precise framing instructions may require a learning period.

• Environmental Factors: Working outdoors means exposure to heat, cold, rain, and other elements, which can be challenging.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Tool Proficiency: Develop expert skills in using hand tools, chain saws, and measuring devices.

• Industry Standards Mastery: Become highly knowledgeable in ANSI, AWAP, ASTM, and REA grading standards for wood poles.

• Process Improvement: Contribute to discussions on how to make yard operations more efficient or safer.

• Career Advancement: Potential to move into more senior roles within the production yard or operations department.

📝 Enhancement Note: Addressing the challenges head-on by highlighting the growth opportunities associated with overcoming them is key. This role offers a chance to build a strong foundation in manufacturing operations and develop practical, in-demand skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Execution: "Describe a time you had to follow precise instructions to complete a task. What was the outcome?" (Focus on attention to detail and adherence to standards).

• Problem-Solving: "If you noticed a defect in a pole that wasn't covered by the standard procedure, what would you do?" (Assesses initiative and understanding of quality protocols).

• Teamwork: "How do you contribute to a positive and productive team environment, especially in physically demanding work?" (Evaluates collaboration and work ethic).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for a family-owned company like Bell Lumber & Pole?" (Assesses alignment with company values).

• "How do you handle working outdoors in various weather conditions?" (Evaluates resilience and adaptability).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio is unlikely, be prepared to discuss your work history and skills verbally.

• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe relevant experiences, focusing on your role in measuring, cutting, marking, or quality inspection.

• Highlight any experience with tools, safety, or working in an outdoor/industrial environment.

• Be ready to explain how you approach learning new operational procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on practical skills, work ethic, and alignment with the company's values. Candidates should be ready to demonstrate their understanding of precision, safety, and teamwork in an operational context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP WorkNow link.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights any experience with manual labor, tool operation (especially hand tools and chain saws), measuring, outdoor work, or industrial environments. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Processed X number of units per shift").

• Prepare for Practical Questions: Be ready to discuss your experience with measuring, marking, and using hand tools. If you have no direct experience, emphasize your ability to learn quickly and your physical capacity.

• Research Company Values: Familiarize yourself with Bell Lumber & Pole's mission and values (excellence, stewardship, entrepreneurial spirit) and be ready to discuss how you embody them.

• Practice Articulating Skills: Prepare to verbally describe your relevant skills and experiences, focusing on precision, safety, and teamwork, using the STAR method for examples.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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