Log Yard Operator

Log yard operators are responsible for inventory, movement, and organization of a log yard for a lumber or paper mill. Operators use heavy machinery to move logs off/on trucks, to storage, and eventually to the mill. They keep track of logs in the yard, such as log grade, species, and location. They may also be responsible for trimming and bucking logs – cutting them to standard size.

• • Able to get in and out of tall equipment
  • Able to make repeated movements
  • Tolerant of noisy environments
  • Self-motivated
  • Dependable
  • Organized

Median $51,500: $30,000 – $66,000

+ 4%

High school diploma

Optional heavy machinery training

• • Forestry
  • Motors/Engines
  • Plant Science
  • Oral Communication

Log yard operators spend most of their workday outside either in heavy machinery or taking inventory of logs. They need to be able to work in all weather conditions and know how to drive machinery in different weather conditions.

• • Use chainsaws safely and maintain them
  • Operate heavy machinery
  • Use Handheld data collection devices
  • Use Microsoft Office
  • Maintain accurate records
  • Communicate effectively

• • Loading and unloading trucks
  • Loading machines with logs
  • Moving logs
  • Inventorying logs
  • Operating chainsaws and preparing logs

US Bureau of Labor Statistics: Logging Equipment Operators

Forestry Careers: Log Yard Manager