Also called: Pressure Treating Operator, Utility Pole Treating Operator
Runs giant pressure tanks that force preservatives deep into lumber, utility poles and railroad ties so they last decades.
You roll carts stacked with pine lumber into a steel cylinder as long as a train car. You seal the door, pull a vacuum, then pump in preservative under high pressure. After testing samples to prove it soaked in, you move the wood to drip pads.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Certificate, about 0.5 years after high school. High school plus a state pesticide applicator license for wood preservatives.
Ways in: On-the-job training, Certification. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Growing about average. Steady demand for decks, poles and rail ties.
Medium risk for 10 years. Treating cycles run on computers, but handling wood and chemical safety stay hands-on.
Age 18+. One way to start: Apply at treating plants; they prepare you for the state pesticide applicator exam First: State pesticide applicator license (wood preservation category exam)
Classes: Chemistry, Biology, Shop class, Algebra.
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