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Log Loader Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Loader Operator (1st Shift)

Elkins, WV · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Day Shift Location: 1644 Buckhannon Pike Coalton, WV 26257 Description AHF Products has a job opportunity for a Log Loader/Lumber Forklift Operator to be located in Norton, WV. Reporting to the Mill ...

ATL OPERATOR

Hazlehurst, GA

$14 - $19/hr

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 ...

Loader Operator

Plain Dealing, LA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Loader Operator The Loader Operator is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment to move ... Operate front-end loaders, log loaders, and other heavy equipment to load logs onto decks, move ...

Loader Operator

Plain Dealing, LA · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Major Responsibilities and Duties: · Operate front-end loaders, log loaders, and other heavy ... sawmill operators, scalers, and truck drivers to coordinate material movement. · Monitor yard ...

Loader Operator (1st Shift)

Coalton, WV

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Reporting to the Mill Supervisor, the Loader Operator is responsible for handling logs in the ... Log loader or lumber forklift experience. * Ability to lift heavy objects and perform physically ...

Loader Operator (1st Shift)

Coalton, WV · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Reporting to the Mill Supervisor, the Loader Operator is responsible for handling logs in the ... Log loader or lumber forklift experience. * Ability to lift heavy objects and perform physically ...

Loader Operator (1st Shift)

Coalton, WV · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Reporting to the Mill Supervisor, the Loader Operator is responsible for handling logs in the ... Log loader or lumber forklift experience. * Ability to lift heavy objects and perform physically ...

Loader Operator (1st Shift)

Coalton, WV · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Reporting to the Mill Supervisor, the Loader Operator is responsible for handling logs in the ... Log loader or lumber forklift experience. * Ability to lift heavy objects and perform physically ...

Loader Operator

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Pit/Production Loader Operator Build Your Career. Build America's Future. Vulcan Materials Company ... Complete log sheets, work orders, and other documentation as required. 7. May direct and train ...

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Log Loader Operator information

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$10

$18

$25

How much do log loader operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for log loader operator in the United States is $18.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Log Loader Operator, you need strong equipment operation skills, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as log loaders and forklifts, along with safety certifications like OSHA training, is essential. Attention to detail, communication, and teamwork are valuable soft skills for efficient and safe operations. These skills ensure logs are moved and loaded safely and efficiently, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity in logging environments.

What is the difference between Log Loader Operator vs Log Truck Driver?

AspectLog Loader OperatorLog Truck Driver
CertificationsForklift, crane, or heavy equipment operation certificationsCommercial driver's license (CDL)
Work EnvironmentLog yards, sawmills, construction sitesOn-road, logging trucks, highways
Job FocusLoading and unloading logs, operating heavy machineryTransporting logs from forest to mills

The Log Loader Operator primarily handles loading logs using heavy machinery in yard or mill settings, while the Log Truck Driver focuses on transporting logs over roads. Both roles require specific certifications and are essential in the logging industry, but they differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What does a Log Loader Operator do?

A Log Loader Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery to load logs onto trucks, rail cars, or conveyors at logging sites, sawmills, or storage yards. They use specialized equipment, such as hydraulic log loaders, to lift, move, and position logs safely and efficiently. These operators must carefully follow safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure the proper handling of timber. Their role is essential in the logging and forestry industry to keep the supply chain moving smoothly.

What are some common challenges faced by Log Loader Operators on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Log Loader Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling uneven or muddy terrain, and ensuring the safe movement of heavy logs. These challenges require operators to be vigilant about safety protocols, maintain strong communication with ground crews, and regularly inspect equipment for optimal performance. Staying adaptable and proactive about maintenance and safety can help minimize risks and contribute to an efficient working environment.
More about Log Loader Operator jobs
What states have the most Log Loader Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Log Loader Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Log Loader Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,474 per year, or $19 per hour.
Loader Operator (1st Shift)

Loader Operator (1st Shift)

Armstrong Flooring, Inc.

Elkins, WV • On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Armstrong Flooring rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Loader Operator (1st Shift)

Job Category: Production

Shift: Day Shift

Location: 1644 Buckhannon Pike Coalton, WV 26257

Description

AHF Products has a job opportunity for a Log Loader/Lumber Forklift Operator to be located in Norton, WV. Reporting to the Mill Supervisor, the Loader Operator is responsible for handling logs in the lumber yard and operating machinery as needed.

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k

Job Duties

Qualified individuals must have the ability (with or without reasonable accommodation) to perform the following duties:

  • Load flatbed lumber trailers.
  • Unload and move lumber carts.
  • Sort and stack logs with a wheel loader.
  • Sort and stack lumber packs with a wheel loader or lumber lift.
  • Organize lumber yard and track loads coming off chain.
  • Perform any other work-related task deemed necessary by the mill management.
Job Qualifications
  • Must be able to successfully complete and pass a background check, employment verification and drug screening.
  • Positive and verifiable work history.
  • Previous experience in the wood manufacturing sector.
  • Log loader or lumber forklift experience.
  • Ability to lift heavy objects and perform physically demanding tasks when needed.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Excellent time management skills to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
Physical Demands

The demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

  • Push, pull, carry and lift 20 - 50lbs.
  • Frequent walking and sitting.
  • Regular stretching, bending, stooping, twisting, reaching, grasping and other such repetitive movements.
  • Must be able to communicate, hear, comprehend, and write in English.
  • Frequent exposure to dust.
  • Exposure to noise environment requiring hearing protection.
  • Must be able and willing to work in non-temperature-controlled environment, exposed to weather conditions.
Mental Demands

The demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

  • Work with a team.
  • Maintain regular and punctual attendance (consistent with ADA and/or FMLA).
  • Attention to detail.
  • Communicate effectively.
  • Multitask in a fast-paced environment.
  • Work with a sense of urgency.

AHF Products provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.


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