Chain saw and skidder operators

Example job titles

• bucker
• chain saw operator - logging
• faller
• feller
• forest worker - logging
• grapple skidder operator
• landingman/woman
• pieceworker - logging
• skidder operator

Main duties

• 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 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.
• 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.
• Provincial certification or a forest worker program certificate is required in some provinces.
• Trade certification for fallers is available, but voluntary in Quebec.
• Workplace hazardous materials information system (WHMIS) and first aid certificates may be required.

Approved positions by year