Logging machinery operators

Overview

Logging machinery operators operate cable yarding systems, mechanical harvesters and forwarders and mechanical tree processors and loaders to fell, yard and process trees at logging sites. They are employed by logging companies and contractors.

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Cable yarding system operators

  • Operate machines to transport trees from logging areas to landing or log loading sites in mountainous terrain in western Canada.

  • Mechanical harvester and forwarder operators

  • Assess site and terrain and drive heavy equipment to perform a combination of felling, slashing, bucking, bunching and forwarding operations at logging areas.

  • Mechanical tree processor and loader operators

  • Operate a variety of machines which perform a combination of slashing, bucking, chipping, sorting and loading logs or trees at landing sites.

Job titles

  • bunk skidder operator
  • cable yarding operator
  • cable yarding system operator
  • chipping machine operator
  • chipping machine operator - logging
  • crane and claw operator - logging

Employment prospects

Source: BC Labour Market Outlook 2024 edition

Annual salary

Low

$52,140

Median

$71,536

High

$83,424

Job openings

Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.

British Columbia

253

expected job openings (5-year forecast)

Education and training

Employment requirements

  • Completion of secondary school may be required.

  • On-the-job training from three to 16 months is provided, depending on the complexity of machinery operated and the type of woodlands operation.

  • Experience requirements vary depending on the complexity of machinery operated.

Additional information

  • There is some mobility among jobs in this group from the less complex to more complex machinery operation.

  • There is some mobility between employers, particularly in similar types of woodland operations.

  • Self-employment as a logging contractor is possible with investment in equipment.

Certification requirements

  • No certification requirements

Post-secondary programs in B.C.

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