Overview
Chain saw and skidder operators operate chain saws to fell, delimb and buck trees, and operate skidders to move or yard the felled trees from the logging site to the landing area for processing and transportation. They are employed by logging companies and contractors.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Operate chain saw to fell, delimb and buck trees at the logging site and loading area
Operate cable, or grapple skidder to move or yard the felled trees from the logging site to the landing area for processing and transportation
Assess site, terrain and weather conditions before felling and yarding trees
May work as member of a team rotating between chain saw operation and skidder operation
May maintain and perform minor repairs on skidders, chain saws and other equipment.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$56,311
$72,475
$83,424
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
161expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school may be required.
Completion of a college program for forest workers may be required.
Formal training in chain saw operation and maintenance and several months of on-the-job training are usually provided.
Additional information
There is a trend toward company certification of chain saw operators in larger companies.
Chain saw operators often must own and maintain their own chain saw.
There is some mobility among jobs within this unit group as chain saw and skidder operators often work in teams and rotate jobs.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Chain saw and skidder operators in B.C.
- Faller Training and Certification issued by BC Forest Safety - Chain saw and skidder operators
Optional: The following certifications are optional to practice as Chain saw and skidder operators in B.C.
- Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Certification - Chain saw and skidder operators
- Basic first aid and CPR - Chain saw and skidder operators
- Heavy Equipment Operator (Tractor-Loader-Backhoe) - Chain saw and skidder operators
Faller Training and Certification issued by BC Forest Safety - Chain saw and skidder operators
To work as a Chain saw and skidder operators in B.C., you must be registered with the Faller Training and Certification issued by BC Forest Safety - Chain saw and skidder operators. Eligibility is achieved by successful completion of a faller training program, work experience under the supervision of a qualified faller, and a letter of recommendation from your supervisor that you are ready for certification.
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Certification - Chain saw and skidder operators
To work as a Chain saw and skidder operators in B.C., you may need to be registered with the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Certification. Eligibility is achieved by completing the relevant course.
Basic first aid and CPR - Chain saw and skidder operators
To work as a Chain saw and skidder operators in B.C., you may need to be registered with the Basic first aid and CPR.
Heavy Equipment Operator (Tractor-Loader-Backhoe) - Chain saw and skidder operators
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
This career is eligible for Red Seal endorsement in several provinces and territories outside of British Columbia. When all levels of your trades training are complete, you can write an Interprovincial Red Seal exam. A successful result demonstrates you have met the national standard for your trade in Canada will allow you to practice your trade in provinces and territories covered by the Red Seal certification.
Work Experience
Work experience recommended
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.