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.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$52,140
$71,536
$83,424
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
253expected 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
Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Logging machinery operators in B.C.
- Air brake endorsements - Logging machinery operators
Air brake endorsements - Logging machinery operators
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification. To work as a Logging machinery operators in B.C., you may need to be registered with the Air brake endorsements. Eligibility is achieved by:
Complete an ICBC-approved air brake course for a single-unit vehicle or have sufficient air brake experience. Contact us to see if your experience qualifies.
Pass the air brake knowledge test.
Pass an air brake pre-trip test using a single-unit vehicle equipped with air brakes.
Pay for your road test fees and licence
Work Experience
Work experience required
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.