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Job Title: Wood Yard Loader Operator / Log Scaler

Department: Sawmill
Reports To: Sawmill Supervisor

Position Summary

The Wood Yard Loader Operator/Log Scaler is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment to move, load, and unload logs and other wood materials within the wood yard. This role also performs accurate log scaling and grading to ensure quality, compliance with mill specifications, and proper inventory control.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate loaders, forklifts, and trucks to transport and stage logs and wood products safely.
• Load and unload trucks, and storage areas while maintaining efficiency and safety standards. Move by-product trailers when needed.
• Operate a chainsaw safely.
• Scale logs by measuring length, diameter, and defects using approved log-scaling methods (e.g., Scribner, Doyle, or mill-specific rules).
• Record log counts, volumes, grades, and species accurately into tracking systems.
• Inspect logs for quality, species identification, and compliance with purchase or mill requirements.
• Maintain proper inventory records and assist with reconciliation of wood yard stock.
• Perform daily inspections and routine maintenance checks on equipment, report mechanical issues promptly.
• Follow all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and environmental regulations.
• Work collaboratively with truck drivers, yard crew, and mill personnel to ensure smooth operations.
• Assist in general yard duties including cleanup, organizing stockpiles, and snow/ice removal when needed.
• Any other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years of experience operating heavy equipment in a wood yard, sawmill, or logging environment preferred.
• Certified Log Scaler
• Ability to identify log species and assess defects.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in recordkeeping.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic equipment troubleshooting.
• Physical ability to work outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions, climb onto loads, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Valid driver’s license required; CDL is a plus.

Skills & Competencies

• Safe equipment operation
• Log measurement and scaling accuracy.
• Communication and teamwork
• Problem-solving and adaptability
• Time management and efficiency

Working Conditions

• Outdoor wood yard environment with exposure to weather, dust, and noise.
• Rotating shifts, overtime, and weekends may be required based on production needs.
• Use of PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, boots, hearing protection) is mandatory.