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Forestry Equipment Operator information

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$29K

$41.5K

$53.5K

How much do forestry equipment operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for forestry equipment operator in the United States is $41,544.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,500.00 and $46,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What challenges does a forestry equipment operator face on the job?

Forestry Equipment Operators often work in rugged, remote environments where weather and terrain can make machinery operation challenging. Navigating uneven or slippery ground, maintaining equipment in the field, and adhering to strict safety protocols require adaptability and vigilance. Operators must also coordinate closely with other crew members to ensure the safe and efficient removal of timber. Staying focused in physically demanding conditions and responding quickly to unexpected obstacles are essential for maintaining productivity and minimizing risks in this role.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a forestry equipment operator?

To thrive as a Forestry Equipment Operator, you need proficiency in operating heavy machinery such as harvesters, skidders, and loaders, along with a high school diploma or equivalent. Occupational safety certifications, knowledge of forestry-specific equipment, and sometimes a commercial driver’s license (CDL) are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork skills are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible timber harvesting operations and seamless coordination with logging crews.

What is a forestry equipment operator?

A Forestry Equipment Operator is responsible for using and maintaining machinery to harvest, transport, and process trees in forests or logging sites. They operate equipment such as skidders, feller bunchers, loaders, and harvesters to cut down trees safely and efficiently. Their job also includes inspecting and maintaining equipment, following safety regulations, and ensuring minimal environmental impact. Operators typically work outdoors in various weather conditions and must have strong mechanical skills.

What careers are there in forestry equipment operation?

Careers in forestry equipment operation include roles such as logging equipment operators, forest machinery operators, and tree harvesters. These jobs typically require knowledge of operating heavy machinery like skidders, feller bunchers, and harvesters, often with certification or training in equipment safety and operation. They are usually performed in forested environments and may involve working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
More about Forestry Equipment Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Forestry Equipment Operator jobs? Cities with the most 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 states have the most Forestry Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Forestry Equipment Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Forestry Equipment Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forestry Equipment Operator jobs are:
Forestry Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 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 $41,544 per year, or $20 per hour.

Specialty Equipment Operator - West Jefferson, NC

Lucas Tree Experts

West Jefferson, NC • On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Lucas Tree Experts rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 36 rated gardening and landscaping

Job description

Specialty Equipment Operator - Jarraff Operator

West Jefferson, NC

$22-$24


Lucas Tree Experts, a leader in the tree care industry, is looking for motivated individuals to join our team as Specialty Equipment Operator.


Currently seeking mechanically inclined, motivated individuals with relevant work experience. Applicants must be able to operate various types of equipment (e.g., jarraff, brush hog mowers, brontosaurus mower) and manually remove vegetation from work areas. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated and willing to learn all aspects of the trade.


Lucas Tree Experts provides FREE on-the-job training for those willing, able, and interested in learning this skilled trade.

Are you looking for a company that provides career advancement opportunities?


Lucas Tree Experts will not only pay for your licensing and certifications to advance your career in the Tree Industry, but they will also provide wage increases for each that is obtained along the way.


Why Lucas Tree Experts?

Free On-the-Job Training

High earning potential with weekly incentives

Safety first culture

Advancement opportunities

Paid time off and paid holidays

Competitive and comprehensive benefits package

401(k) with company match

Work outdoors!


This is a full time, year-round, outdoor, physical labor opportunity. Duties: manual removal of vegetation from work areas, safely operating various forestry equipment (woodchipper, hydraulic equipment, chainsaws) and performing line clearance, pruning, and removals.


REQUIREMENTS:

Must have CDL

Must be able to work 45 hours weekly.

Must be 18 years of age with a High School Diploma/GED/or equivalent.

Must have a current and valid driver's license with reliable transportation. Must be able to work outside in various types of weather.

Must be physically able to perform the requirements of the position (i.e., walk on uneven grounds, carry 75 lbs.)

Must be willing to work at varying heights up to 75 feet.

Must be willing and able to learn how to run a bucket truck & operate equipment safely. Must be willing and able to obtain a CDL A or B license. Must be willing and able to obtain, and maintain licenses & certifications as required by the position in order to grow your career. Must be able to successfully complete a post offer physical & drug screen as well as a background and motor vehicle check.


Successful professionals at Lucas Tree Experts have come from a variety of backgrounds, including: Utility Line Clearance, Integrated Vegetation Management, Arboriculture, Field Operations Management, Supervisor, Environmental Studies, Horticulture, Arborist, Forestry, Off-Road, Natural Resource Management, Storm Restoration, and Landscape Maintenance.


Lucas Tree Experts offers paid, hands-on, on-the-job training, paid educational courses for advancement in the industry. We also offer safety and bonus incentive programs as well as a complete benefits package.


Come work for a company that offers advancement opportunities and a great quality of work life!


*Please Note: Correspondence will be primarily via e-mail. Please provide us with a working e-mail on your application. If you don't hear from Lucas Tree within a day, please check your spam folder.

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