Chain Saw and Skidder Operators
What they do?
Chain saw and skidder operators perform some or all of the following duties:
A. Operate chain saw to fell, delimb and buck trees at the logging site and loading area
B. Operate cable, or grapple skidder to move or yard the felled trees from the logging site to the landing area for processing and transportation
C. Assess site, terrain and weather conditions before felling and yarding trees
D. May work as member of a team rotating between chain saw operation and skidder operation
E. May maintain and perform minor repairs on skidders, chain saws and other equipment.
What education do I need?
1. Completion of secondary school may be required.
2. Completion of a college program for forest workers may be required.
3. Formal training in chain saw operation and maintenance and several months of on-the-job training are usually provided.
4. Previous experience as a logging and forestry labourer or logging machine operator may be required. Experience requirements vary depending on the type and location of woodlands operations.
5. Provincial certification or a forest worker program certificate is required in some provinces.
6. Trade certification for fallers is available, but voluntary in Quebec.
High School Subject that will help:
1. English
2. Mechanics
3. Physical Education
4. First Aid
What can you expect to make:
The average hourly wages for Chain Saw and Skidder Operators is $17.36/HR, which is close to the average for occupations in the primary industry sector and are close to the average for all intermediate occupations. These wages grew at an above-average rate from 2002 to 2004.
Average Wage
Expected Wage by Age
Unemployment:
17% of Chain Saw and Skidder Operators are unemployed. This rate is above the average for intermediate occupations.
Unemployment
Trends in Unemployment
Current Job Outlook:
The job outlook for Chain Saw and Skidder Operators is considered Below Average because:
1. Employment grew at an average rate.
2. The retirement rate is above average, and the number of retiring workers contributes to job openings.
3. Hourly wages ($17.36) are close to the average ($18.07), and the rate of wage growth is above average.
4. The unemployment rate (17%) is above the 2004 average (7%).
Future Job Prospects:
Your job outlook will continue to be Below Average because:
1. Although the retirement rate will likely be above average, the number of retiring workers should contribute to job openings.
2. The number of job seekers will likely match the number of job openings.
Highest Concetration:
The highest concentrations are found in Alberta and Prince Edward Island while the lowest concentrations are in New Brunswick and Newfoundland.
Unionization Rate:
The unionization rate (26%) is close to the average (32%) for all occupations.
Useful Experience:
1. Physical/outdoor work
2. Machinery
3. Safety procedures
