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Chipper Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assists Lathe Deck Operator with infeed and chipper problems as needed * Maintain lathe deck and lathe (including but not limited to grinding of lathe knives; performing install/inspections of lathe ...

Arbor Groundsman

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/hr

TCIA certified chipper operator specialist or have ability to obtain within 6 months * TCIA chainsaw operator specialist or have ability to obtain within 6 months * TCIA ground operation specialist ...

Chipper Grinder

Cordele, GA · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

GFMCO is seeking individuals to join our team in Cordele, GA. The candidate must possess the ability to think critically , and exercise initiative to ensure efficiency of both facilities and ...

Arbor Groundsman

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$19 - $26.50/hr

TCIA certified chipper operator specialist or have ability to obtain within 6 months * TCIA chainsaw operator specialist or have ability to obtain within 6 months * TCIA ground operation specialist ...

Stump Grinder Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

Operating a chipper and mini-skid Benefits at Limbwalker * Paid Lunches * Great Company Culture * Hiring Bonuses * Production Bonuses * Referral Bonuses * Community Bonuses * Google 5-Star Bonuses

Arbor Groundsman

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $28.50/hr

TCIA certified chipper operator specialist or have ability to obtain within 6 months * TCIA chainsaw operator specialist or have ability to obtain within 6 months * TCIA ground operation specialist ...

Arbor Groundsman

Martinez, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/hr

TCIA certified chipper operator specialist or have ability to obtain within 6 months * TCIA chainsaw operator specialist or have ability to obtain within 6 months * TCIA ground operation specialist ...

$18/hr

If employed in the Forestry division, TCIA Chipper Operator Specialist & TCIA Ground Operations Specialist Knowledge: * Applicable safety practices and procedures * Methods, materials, equipment, and ...

Arbor Groundsman

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

TCIA certified chipper operator specialist or have ability to obtain within 6 months * TCIA chainsaw operator specialist or have ability to obtain within 6 months * TCIA ground operation specialist ...

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Chipper Operator information

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How much do chipper operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 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 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 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 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 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.

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:
Infographic showing various Chipper Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 68% Physical, and 32% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Lathe Operator

$29.43/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Weyerhaeuser rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 18 rated forestry and logging companies


Job description

Weyerhaeuser is seeking individuals who are committed to safety, have a positive attitude, excellent work ethic and a desire to work in a manufacturing facility. Weyerhaeuser's Engineered Wood Products is currently looking to fill a Lathe Operator position at our Zwolle facility.

At Weyerhaeuser, we offer positions with on-the-job training, continued growth potential and a career limited only by you. We continually strive to develop and promote talent from within while offering stable employment with excellent pay and benefits. Our manufacturing facilities are highly automated and utilize many leading-edge technologies in the wood products industry.

Under the supervision of the Green End Supervisor, the Lathe Operator controls the lathe to peel logs into veneer, maintaining a constant flow of veneer to the Clipper.  Works closely with the Deck Hand and Cat Operator.

The wage for this role is $29.43 per hour.

Key Functions

  • Controls the lathe to peel logs into veneer at full production pace while maintaining compliance with APA and safety standards, by detecting compliance issues and taking correct preventative measures.

  • Maintains quality control of thickness, body, length of veneer and proper core flow. Assists Lathe Deck Operator with infeed and chipper problems as needed

  • Maintain lathe deck and lathe (including but not limited to grinding of lathe knives; performing install/inspections of lathe knives; setting score knives/adjusting score blocks; monitoring and troubleshooting infeed and chipper; greasing lathe and maintaining cleanliness of machinery) as well as performing preventative inspections/maintenance and reporting breakdowns. Also, assist maintenance personnel with lathe repair as needed.     

  • Work with management, and other members of the department to maximize operation of the lathe and green end positions.

  • High school diploma or GED.

  • Ability to perform basic math function is required.

  • Experience operating green end equipment is preferred.

  • Computer experience is a plus

  • Mechanical aptitude is a plus.

  • Knowledge of APA standards; veneer quality, and thicknesses.

  • Interpret and complete required paperwork, including maintaining neat and accurate production reports.

  • Self-starter with the ability to work without direct supervision and provide leadership as necessary.

  • Ability to work closely with supervisors, cat operator, deck hand, clipper operator and others in the department; be a team player/leader; good verbal and written communication skills; and demonstrate positive attitude.

  • Knowledge and ability to use Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). Show proficiency in Job Safety Analysis (JSA) standards.

  • Knowledge of lockout procedures.

  • Maintain a clean workstation, and exhibit good performance, safety and attendance records.

  • Willingness to work rotating shifts, work overtime and weekends and rotate between jobs; as well as perform any job as specified by supervisor.

About Wood Products
We've been delivering quality building products and solutions to our customers for more than 100 years. From builders and dealers to specifiers and homeowners, we offer exceptional product performance and unparalleled support.
For more than a century, we've been building our reputation as a leader in sustainable wood products.

About Weyerhaeuser
We sustainably manage forests and manufacture products that make the world a better place. We're serious about safety, driven to achieve excellence, and proud of what we do. With multiple business lines in locations across North America, we offer a range of exciting career opportunities for smart, talented people who are passionate about making a difference. 
We know you have a choice in your career. We want you to choose us. 
Weyerhaeuser is an equal opportunity employer. Inclusion is one of our five core values and we strive to maintain a culture where all our people feel a sense of belonging, opportunity and shared purpose. We are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce and supporting an equitable and inclusive environment that inspires people of all backgrounds to join, stay and thrive with our team. 
 


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About Weyerhaeuser

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Weyerhaeuser is a leading international forest products company based in Seattle, WA, US. Established in 1900, the company has grown to become one of the largest timberland owners in the world. Weyerhaeuser is deeply rooted in the forestry industry and excels in timberland management, as well as the manufacture and distribution of a diverse range of forest products. The product slate encompasses lumber, plywood, wood chips, and other wood-derived materials predominantly used in construction, cellulose fiber production, and bioenergy.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

Year founded

1900

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