Chain saw and skidder operators

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.

Job titles

  • bucker
  • bucker - logging
  • cable skidder operator
  • chain saw operator - logging
  • chaser - logging
  • cordwood cutter

Employment prospects

Source: BC Labour Market Outlook 2025 edition

Annual salary

Low

$61,926

Median

$77,407

High

$91,783

Usual Hours Worked Weekly: 42.42

Job openings

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

British Columbia

193

expected 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

Optional: The following certifications are optional 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
  • Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Certification - Chain saw and skidder operators
  • Basic first aid and CPR - Chain saw and skidder operators
  • Air brake endorsements - 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.

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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.

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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.

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Air brake endorsements - Chain saw and skidder operators

To work as a Chain saw and skidder operator in B.C., you may need to have Air brake endorsement. Eligibility is achieved by:

  • Complete an ICBC-approved air brake course for a single-unit vehicle or have sufficient air brake experience. Contact ICBC 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.

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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.

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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.

Beneficial post-secondary programs (not required)

Adult Upgrading Education Programs

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