Flat Grain Sawyer (Sawmilling)
いためとりこう（せいざい）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that performs flitch cutting processing on logs at sawmills and the like. It involves discerning the grain and shape of logs, devising an optimal cutting plan, and operating sawmill machinery to produce boards.
Description
Flat grain sawyers are specialists at sawmills and wood processing factories who cut boards from logs. They appraise logs by evaluating the condition of sapwood and heartwood, moisture content, and grain beauty to plan flitch cutting. They operate sawmill machines and saws, managing dimensions and quality while cutting boards. After cutting, they perform grading (classification) and hand over to drying processes or subsequent steps. Knowledge of safety, hygiene, and machine maintenance is required, as is coordinated teamwork.
Future Outlook
While stable demand is expected due to the expansion of wooden construction and DIY markets, skill enhancement is required due to advances in mechanization and automation.
Personality Traits
Good Team Player / Meticulous / Physically Fit / Sharp Observation Skills
Work Style
Career Path
Apprentice Flat Grain Sawyer → Flat Grain Sawyer → Expert Flat Grain Sawyer → Site Leader → Factory Manager
Required Skills
Distinguishing Standard and Random Length Lumber / Log Grading / Safety and Health Knowledge / Sawmill Machine Operation / Use of Measuring Instruments
Recommended Skills
CAD/CAM Basics / Drying Process Management / Machine Maintenance and Inspection / Quality Control
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Attention to detail is required to not miss subtle differences in grain or dimensional errors in order to maintain board quality. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because physical stamina is required for handling large logs and prolonged standing work. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Procedures are established, and creative thinking is not particularly required. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Work is mostly progressed based on instructions, and proactive leadership is relatively not required. |
Related Qualifications
- Forklift Operation Training
- Woodworking Skills Proficiency
Related Jobs
- Log Sorter
- Sawmill Worker
- Wood Processing Machine Operator