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Grapple Skidder Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

THE BEASLEY GROUP

ATL OPERATOR

Hazlehurst, GA

$14 - $19/hr

... grapple condition * Perform basic preventive maintenance: fueling, greasing, cleaning cab ... Forklift, dozer, or skidder experience (a plus) Physical & Work Environment * Work outdoors in heat ...

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Grapple Skidder Operator information

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$14

$23

$33

How much do grapple skidder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for grapple skidder operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Grapple Skidder Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Grapple Skidder Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience with heavy equipment operation, and a solid understanding of forestry safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hydraulic controls, GPS systems, and specific certifications such as OSHA safety training are commonly preferred. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and problem-solving skills help operators navigate challenging terrain and coordinate effectively with logging crews. These abilities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient timber extraction and minimizing downtime in demanding outdoor environments.

What is a typical workday like for a Grapple Skidder Operator?

A typical workday for a Grapple Skidder Operator involves operating a skidder to move felled trees from the cutting area to loading sites, often navigating uneven, forested terrain and changing weather conditions. You'll begin by inspecting and maintaining equipment to ensure safe operation, then work closely with fellers, loaders, and other crew members to coordinate logging activities. Throughout the day, you'll be responsible for maneuvering logs safely and efficiently while adhering to strict safety protocols. Collaboration and clear communication with your team are key, as is adaptability to handle unexpected challenges in the field.

What is a Grapple Skidder Operator job?

A Grapple Skidder Operator operates a heavy-duty forestry machine called a grapple skidder to pull and transport logs from cutting areas to landing zones for further processing. They navigate rough terrain, secure logs with a hydraulic grapple, and ensure efficient and safe movement of timber. Operators must have strong machinery skills, knowledge of forestry operations, and an understanding of safety protocols. This role is essential for logging operations, maximizing productivity while minimizing environmental impact.

More about Grapple Skidder Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Grapple Skidder Operator jobs? The most popular types of Grapple Skidder Operator jobs are:
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Grapple Skidder Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grapple Skidder Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 10% As Needed, 7% Full Time, 81% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 34% Physical, 65% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
ATL OPERATOR

ATL OPERATOR

THE BEASLEY GROUP

Hazlehurst, GA

$14 - $19/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 hours ago

Job description

ob Title: ATL Log Loader Operator
Department: Woodyard / Log Yard
Reports To: Woodyard Supervisor / Yard Foreman
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Shift: Varies (days/nights, weekends, overtime as needed)

PAID ON HOURLY BASIS. 

60 HRS WORK SCHEDULE, 12 HR SHIFTS, 5 DAY WORK WEEK, OCCASSIONAL WEEKENDS, 

BENEFITS AVAILABLE, PTO, 401K, AND MORE. 

NIGHT SHIFT DIFFERENTAL PAY AVAILABLE. 

Job Summary

The ATL Log Loader Operator safely operates an ATL (or similar knuckleboom/log loader) to unload, sort, stack, and supply logs to the mill. This position is responsible for maintaining steady log flow to production, protecting equipment, and maintaining an organized, safe log yard while following all safety policies and environmental requirements.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Operate ATL/log loader to unload log trucks, sort logs by species/length/grade, and stack logs in designated decks.

  • Supply logs to the infeed/log deck to meet production needs; maintain consistent flow and avoid starving the mill.

  • Inspect incoming logs for foreign material (metal, rocks, chains) and report hazards to reduce downtime and equipment damage.

  • Communicate with truck drivers and scale house to coordinate unloading order and traffic flow.

  • Maintain log yard organization: build stable stacks/decks, maintain clear lanes, and keep fire lanes and access routes open.

  • Perform daily equipment inspections (pre-start and post-shift) and document:

    • fluids, filters, grease points, lights/alarms, tires/tracks, brakes, hydraulics, boom and grapple condition

  • Perform basic preventive maintenance: fueling, greasing, cleaning cab, reporting leaks/abnormal sounds.

  • Work safely around pedestrians, trucks, and heavy equipment; maintain safe swing radius and load control.

  • Assist with yard housekeeping: remove debris, manage mud/dust control (as assigned), maintain berms/drainage.

  • Follow all safety and environmental rules: PPE, spill response, stormwater controls, and fire prevention procedures.

  • Respond to production changes, weather conditions, and shifting priorities to maintain uptime.

  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED (preferred)

  • 1+ year experience operating heavy equipment (log loader/knuckleboom preferred) or willingness to train with demonstrated aptitude

  • Ability to operate equipment safely in tight areas with traffic and changing ground conditions

  • Ability to pass pre-employment screening (as applicable)

  • Willingness to work shifts, weekends, and overtime

  • Strong safety mindset and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior woodyard/sawmill experience

  • Experience unloading log trucks and building stable log decks

  • Basic mechanical knowledge (hydraulic leaks, hose wear, pins/bushings, grease/PM routines)

  • Familiarity with radio communication and mill traffic control

  • Forklift, dozer, or skidder experience (a plus)

Physical & Work Environment

  • Work outdoors in heat/cold/rain and dusty conditions

  • Prolonged sitting with repetitive hand/foot controls

  • Ability to climb in/out of equipment multiple times per shift

  • Exposure to noise, vibration, and uneven terrain

  • PPE required: hard hat (as required), safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, high-vis, steel-toe boots

Safety-Critical Expectations

  • Maintain three points of contact entering/exiting equipment

  • Use seatbelt at all times in equipment

  • Never swing loads over people/vehicles; maintain clear communication and exclusion zones

  • Stop work and report hazards/near misses immediately

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