Also called: Feller-Buncher Operator, Skidder Operator, Harvester Operator
Runs huge machines that cut, drag, and load trees in timber harvests.
From the cab of a feller-buncher, you grab a tree with a giant claw, cut it with a spinning saw, and stack it in seconds. Logging starts early, often in remote woods, and you work closely with truckers and mechanics to keep wood moving.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
High school diploma, about 0 years after high school. On-the-job training; some community colleges offer logging programs.
Ways in: On-the-job training, Trade school. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Majors to look at: Forest Operations (trade program).
Shrinking (about -2% over 10 years). Logging workers; mechanization reduces crew sizes.
Medium risk for 10 years. Harvesters get semi-automated controls and remote operation is in testing; operators remain, but each does more.
Age 18+. One way to start: Ask local logging contractors for entry crew jobs; many train new hires on skidders and loaders
Classes: Ag mechanics or welding, Small engines.
Official data: O*NET occupation 45-4022.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.