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Entry Level Forestry Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Forestry Equipment Operator information

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How much do entry level forestry equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level forestry equipment operator in the United States is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Forestry Equipment Operator vs Forestry Technician?

AspectEntry Level Forestry Equipment OperatorForestry Technician
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsForestry-related certifications, GIS, GPS training
Work EnvironmentForestry sites, logging operations, equipment yardsFieldwork in forests, data collection, research sites
Employer & Industry UsageLogging companies, forestry services, government agenciesEnvironmental agencies, research institutions, forestry departments

While both roles involve working in forestry environments, the Entry Level Forestry Equipment Operator primarily focuses on operating machinery like skidders and loaders, requiring equipment operation certifications. In contrast, Forestry Technicians often handle data collection, research, and forest management tasks, with a focus on fieldwork and forestry knowledge. The roles complement each other but differ in responsibilities and skill sets.

How to start a career as an entry level forestry equipment operator?

To start a career as an entry-level forestry equipment operator, gain basic knowledge of forestry machinery and safety procedures, often through vocational training or community college programs. Obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training and develop skills in operating heavy equipment like chainsaws, skidders, or harvesters. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions can also improve job prospects in this field.
More about Entry Level Forestry Equipment Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Forestry Equipment Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Forestry Equipment Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forestry Equipment Operator jobs? The most popular types of Forestry Equipment Operator jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Forestry Equipment Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Forestry Equipment Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Forestry Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,327 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Mobile Diesel Mechanic (Forestry Equipment)

RED MTN. RESOURCE

Garden Valley, CA โ€ข On-site

$32 - $50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Position: Mobile Diesel Mechanic (Forestry & Heavy Equipment)

This is a field mechanic role working out of a company-provided service truck. You will diagnose, repair, and maintain a fleet that includes:

• Dozers

• Feller-bunchers

• Masticators

• Excavators

• Skidders

• Work trucks

• Chainsaws & small engines

You will travel between job sites, troubleshoot in remote terrain, and get machines back online quickly to keep large forestry projects moving.

This job is ideal for someone who:

• Thrives in autonomous, mobile work

• Enjoys diagnosing complex mechanical issues

• Communicates well with operators and PMs

• Takes pride in being the person the team relies on

• Wants to be part of a family-run, high-accountability company

Key Responsibilities

• Perform field diagnostics and repairs on diesel and heavy forestry equipment

• Manage parts ordering, delivery follow-up, and field inventory

• Maintain PM schedules and confirm operator compliance

• Navigate remote job locations using maps/GPS

• Communicate repair timelines and machine status clearly

• Travel across Northern California; occasional out-of-state trips

Required Experience

• Diesel mechanic experience (field service preferred)

• Ability to work independently in remote areas

• Strong troubleshooting of hydraulics, electrical, and engine systems

• Valid driver’s license

Preferred

• CDL

• Experience with forestry equipment

• Spanish speaking (many operators bilingual)

Company Description

Red Mtn Resource is a third-generation, family-built forestry and vegetation-management company operating across the western United States. We are known for our fast-paced, disciplined, high-output culture, and we take pride in delivering large-scale wildfire-fuel reduction and land-management projects in some of the most rugged terrain in America.
We are growing aggressively — especially in Northern California — and we’re looking for motivated professionals who thrive in a field environment, handle responsibility with discipline, and enjoy being part of a tight, results-driven team.