Planer operator
Planer operators specialise in levelling and shaping the surface of wood. They work with various wood products, such as boards, mouldings, and panels, to meet the needs of the construction sector. Planer operators use automated tools in their work. There are various job opportunities in the wood industry. The profession demands technical competence, precision, and the ability to work independently.
Wood industry.
The work of planer operators requires technical competence, practicality, and a thorough understanding of the wood processing procedure. The profession requires the ability to use planers. The work also involves quality control, so accuracy and attention to detail are crucial, particularly when handling timber, adding tint to paints, and during industrial painting or waxing processes. Having experience in blade technology is often considered an advantage, as the work may involve servicing and adjusting planer blades.
Achieving the necessary quality standards involves meticulous care and precise measurements, as planed products such as boards, mouldings, and panels must be manufactured to exact dimensions. In addition, the work requires problem-solving skills and an independent approach, as well as teamwork abilities, since planer operators often work as part of a production team.
Physical stamina is important, as the work involves handling timber and operating machinery. The role emphasises independent work, initiative, and a sense of responsibility, while cooperation skills are also important. In addition, proficiency in the Finnish language and a solid understanding of basic mathematics are useful, for example, when reading instructions and calculating dimensions.
In order to be a successful planer operator, formal qualifications are not always required, but work experience in the field and proficiency with technical equipment are important. You can complete a Vocational Qualification in the Wood Industry at upper secondary vocational institutions. The qualification is titled ‘sawmill process operator’. You can also complete the qualification through an apprenticeship. After gaining more professional experience, it is also possible to complete a further vocational qualification and a specialist vocational qualification in the woodworking sector.
Median salary
3059 €/mo
The data is based on the median income, meaning the amount of salary which is the middle of the salary amounts arranged in order of magnitude.
Source: Statistics Finland's structural statistics on wages and salaries