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Chipper Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Enviva

Chip Mill Operator

Garysburg, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

The Chip Mill Operator is responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the chip mill ... Troubleshooting and operation of all woodyard equipment i.e. debarker, chipper, bark hog, all ...

Enviva

Chip Mill Operator

Faison, NC · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

The Chip Mill Operator is responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the chip mill ... Troubleshooting and operation of all woodyard equipment i.e. debarker, chipper, bark hog, all ...

Enviva

Chip Mill Operator

Faison, NC · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

The Chip Mill Operator is responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the chip mill ... Troubleshooting and operation of all woodyard equipment i.e. debarker, chipper, bark hog, all ...

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How much do chipper operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for chipper operator in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Chipper Operator do?

A Chipper Operator is responsible for operating machinery that reduces wood, branches, and other materials into small chips. This role typically involves feeding raw materials into the chipper, monitoring equipment to ensure it functions safely and efficiently, and performing routine maintenance. Chipper Operators often work in forestry, landscaping, or wood processing industries and must adhere to strict safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and may require working outdoors in various weather conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by a Chipper Operator, and how can they be addressed?

Chipper Operators often face challenges such as handling equipment jams, maintaining consistent feed rates, and ensuring safety around heavy machinery. To address these, operators should follow regular maintenance schedules, stay alert to signs of malfunction, and adhere strictly to safety protocols. Effective communication with team members is also crucial, especially in fast-paced environments where coordination is key to minimizing downtime and accidents. Continuous on-the-job training helps operators stay updated with best practices, further reducing operational challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chipper Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chipper Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, maintenance procedures, and workplace safety, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial wood chippers, conveyor systems, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work efficiently in a team are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure safe and efficient material processing, minimize downtime, and promote a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Chipper Operator vs Tree Trimmer?

AspectChipper OperatorTree Trimmer
Required CredentialsOSHA safety training, possibly certification in equipment operationSafety training, possibly certification in tree care or arboriculture
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, forestry, logging areas, outdoorUrban and suburban trees, outdoor
Industry UsageForestry, logging, landscapingArboriculture, landscaping, municipal services

While both roles involve outdoor work with trees and wood, a Chipper Operator primarily operates wood chipping equipment to process logs and debris, often in forestry or logging settings. A Tree Trimmer focuses on pruning, trimming, and maintaining trees, typically in urban environments. The skills and certifications overlap in safety and equipment operation, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

What is a chipper operator?

A chipper operator is a worker responsible for operating wood chipping equipment to convert logs, branches, and other wood debris into mulch or chips. They typically need knowledge of safety procedures, proper equipment use, and may require certifications such as OSHA training. The role often involves working outdoors in forestry, landscaping, or waste management environments.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Chipper operators typically do not earn $4,000 a week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades such as commercial truck drivers, oilfield workers, or certain construction supervisors, which require technical skills, on-the-job training, or licensing. These roles usually involve physically demanding work and specific safety certifications.

What is the highest paid machine operator?

Among machine operators, those working as crane, elevator, or drilling machine operators tend to have the highest wages, often exceeding $60,000 annually. Specialized skills, certifications, and experience in heavy equipment or industrial settings typically lead to higher pay in this field.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those specializing in crane operation, pipeline, or mining equipment, with salaries exceeding $70,000 to $100,000 annually depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with extensive experience and specialized certifications tend to earn the most in the industry.
More about Chipper Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Chipper Operator jobs? The most popular types of Chipper Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Chipper Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Chipper Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chipper Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chipper Operator jobs are:
Chipper Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chipper Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 20% As Needed, 77% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 76% Physical, and 24% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Chip Mill Operator

Chip Mill Operator

Enviva

Garysburg, NC • On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Enviva rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Enviva team is driven by our shared vision for a renewable energy future. We are a fast-growing, purpose-driven, global energy company specializing in delivering sustainable wood bioenergy solutions. We are the world's largest producer of sustainable wood pellets, which provide a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels.
The Chip Mill Operator is responsible for all aspects of continuous operation of the chip mill, including safety, equipment operation, monitoring, machine set up and cleaning.
Responsibilities
  • Safely operate all assigned equipment in the chipping process include knuckle boom, front end loaders, grapple loaders and bull dozers.
  • Troubleshooting and operation of all woodyard equipment i.e. debarker, chipper, bark hog, all chains, and conveyance systems
  • Operate computers and HMI screens to monitor and correct operational values as needed to ensure smooth and consistent operation of the chip mill process.
  • Maintain woodyard equipment and machinery by performing daily checks and preventive maintenance
  • Responsible for daily inspections and the performance of basic maintenance to keep equipment in clean, good working order.
  • Maintain, replace, and repair, all parts of the chipper as needed (clamps, holders, wear segments, knives chipper knives
  • Maintenance of the required paperwork.
  • Operate computers, monitor and correct operational values
  • Perform/coordinate housekeeping to meet and upload the company standard
  • Escalate issues promptly for proper resolution

Qualifications
  • Internal company certification required.
  • Ability to understand and follow written and verbal job instructions.
  • Proficient in mathematics and measurement.
  • A quick learner, ability to work with little to no supervision.

Preferred Qualifications - What Sets You Apart
  • Knowledgeable and experienced with heavy equipment operation in a similar industry
  • High school diploma or GED.

Working conditions
  • Climb ladders and work off elevated surfaces up to 50 feet on an occasional basis during each shift.
  • Must be able to work in outdoor environments and occasionally in temperatures above 100 degrees and below 32 degrees; work in all types of weather conditions.
  • Occasionally walk on slippery or uneven surfaces.
  • Willing and able to maintain strict adherence to safety rules and regulations, to include, wearing safety equipment.

Physical requirements
  • Willing and able to operate heavy material moving equipment requiring extended periods of sitting, as well as regularly perform tasks such as occasionally pushing and/or pulling and lifting up to 50 pounds, walking, climbing, stooping, and standing.
  • Ability to operate levers with both hands while seated for long periods.
  • Ability to bend, squat, climb and lift items above shoulders occasionally.
  • Willing and able to work around moving equipment and machinery
  • Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards

This position is not eligible for visa support.
EEO Statement
Enviva is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity (EEO) in any term, condition or privilege of employment. Enviva does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, uniform service member, genetic information or any other status protected by law. Enviva complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which we operate.

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