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Log Yard Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

baillielumberco

Log Yard Technician

Donalds, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

The position's primary responsibilities include operating a front-end loader and knuckle boom to unload and load trucks as well as grading/scaling logs per company guidelines. Log Yard Technician ...

baillielumberco

Log Yard Manager

Reedsburg, WI · On-site

... operators, dry kiln and boiler operators, lumber graders, material handlers and a shipping ... Log Yard Manager Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Supervise and direct, direct reports

Baillie Lumber Co.

Log Yard Technician

Donalds, SC · On-site

The position's primary responsibilities include operating a front-end loader and knuckle boom to unload and load trucks as well as grading/scaling logs per company guidelines. Log Yard Technician ...

Baillie Lumber Co.

Log Yard Manager

Reedsburg, WI · On-site

... operators, dry kiln and boiler operators, lumber graders, material handlers and a shipping ... Log Yard Manager Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Supervise and direct, direct reports

baillielumberco

Log Yard Technician

Trempealeau, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

Log Yard Technician: Hawkeye Forest Products LP., a subsidiary of Baillie Lumber Co., has an ... Experience operating front-end loader and/or knuckle boom preferred * A degree from a two year ...

Weyerhauser Co

Log Yard Utility Person

Cottageville, SC · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Weyerhaeuser's log yard facility in Cottageville, South Carolina has an opening for a Utility ... Experience operating a skid steer, water truck, ag equipment * Knowledge of raw materials/log yards ...

Weyerhaeuser

Log Yard Utility Person

Cottageville, SC · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Weyerhaeuser's log yard facility in Cottageville, South Carolina has an opening for a Utility ... Experience operating a skid steer, water truck, ag equipment * Knowledge of raw materials/log yards ...

Weyerhaeuser

Log Yard Utility Person

Cottageville, SC · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Weyerhaeuser's log yard facility in Cottageville, South Carolina has an opening for a Utility ... Experience operating a skid steer, water truck, ag equipment * Knowledge of raw materials/log yards ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Log Yard Utility Person

Cottageville, SC · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Weyerhaeuser's log yard facility in Cottageville, South Carolina has an opening for a Utility ... Experience operating a skid steer, water truck, ag equipment * Knowledge of raw materials/log yards ...

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Log Yard Operator information

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How much do log yard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for log yard operator in the United States is $20.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a log yard operator?

Log Yard Operators are skilled workers responsible for managing the movement, sorting, and storage of logs in a log yard, typically found at sawmills or timber processing facilities. They operate heavy machinery such as loaders, forklifts, and cranes to transport logs, ensure safe stacking, and maintain inventory records. Their role is crucial for the efficient flow of materials and safety in lumber production operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a log yard operator?

To thrive as a Log Yard Operator, you need a solid understanding of log grading, inventory management, and safe equipment operation, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with heavy machinery such as forklifts, loaders, and computerized inventory systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities are valuable soft skills for ensuring efficiency and safety. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining smooth operations, preventing accidents, and optimizing log yard productivity.

What are common challenges faced by log yard operators, and how can they be managed?

Log Yard Operators often face challenges related to safely handling heavy machinery, managing varying weather conditions, and maintaining efficient workflow in a busy yard. Effective communication with team members and strict adherence to safety protocols are essential to prevent accidents and ensure smooth operations. Staying organized and attentive helps in tracking log inventory and avoiding bottlenecks. Continuous training and regular equipment maintenance also play a key role in overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Log Yard Operator vs Timber Grader?

AspectLog Yard OperatorTimber Grader
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, grading certifications
Work EnvironmentLog yards, outdoor, heavy machineryMill or sawmill, indoor/outdoor, grading stations
Industry UsageLogging, forestry, lumber supplyLumber processing, sawmill operations

While both roles are involved in the lumber industry, a Log Yard Operator primarily manages the movement and storage of logs in the yard, operating heavy machinery. A Timber Grader focuses on inspecting and grading lumber quality. Both roles require safety certifications and are essential in the lumber supply chain, but they differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What cities are hiring for Log Yard Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Log Yard Operator job openings:

What states have the most Log Yard Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Log Yard Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Log Yard Operator jobs?

For Log Yard Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Log Yard Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,677 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Log Yard Operator - 1st Shift

Jamestown, CA • On-site

American Wood Fibers
Paper Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about American Wood Fibersexternal

$26 - $28/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

American Wood Fibers rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

American Wood Fibers (AWF) is a manufacturer of both consumer and industrial products that are sold to multiple manufacturers as well as pet, agricultural, and home-heating markets. AWF is comprised of 450+ employees and holds operations at 11 locations, generating over $100M in annual sales revenue. We are currently seeking a candidate for the1st Shift Log Yard Operator role in our Jamestown, CAfacility.
Primary duties to include, but not limited to the following:

  1. PRODUCTION

  • Work closely with other shavers to keep production of wood shavings on track to meet shift goals
  • Must keep shavers operational and at their best efficiency at all times - includes filling up the shaver boxes, monitoring equipment, and effectively moving logs around the log yard
  • Cut logs to specifications and maintain an orderly yard for inventory counts
  • Evaluate logs before unloading from freight shipments
  • Monitor the quality of the shavings being produced.
  • Uphold and obey all warnings and safety precautions used in the plant
  1. LOADER/KNUCKLE BOOM/HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR
  • Safely operate industrial equipment including: articulated wheel loader, knuckle boom, and skid steer
  • Clean and maintain the machine with regular greasing and cleaning of all necessary systems
  • Coordinate with truck drivers in the yard to maintain a path in and out of the plant, while keeping everyone safe and out of harm's way
  • Responsible for the movement of wood - logs throughout the log yard
  • Must be able to safely operate around people and other machinery
  • Must be able to work in all weather conditions
  1. SAFETY
  • Participates in monthly safety meetings.
  • Uses required personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Participates in necessary training sessions and achieves satisfactory results on required tests.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Valid Driver's License (Required)
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs.
  • Physical capability to bend, squat, or stoop
  • Previous mobile equipment, forklift, required
EXPERIENCE
Industrial Machine Operating: 1 Year (Preferred)
COMPENSATION
Starting: $26.00 - $28.00 per hour
BENEFITS
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

SCHEDULE
  • 8-hour shift
  • Day Shift
  • Overtime-eligible
LOCATION
  • On-site, one location - Jamestown, CA

For consideration...
For consideration...
Due to the nature of our business, American Wood Fibers requires a tobacco and smoke-free environment. We offer a competitive package to include health, dental, vision and life insurance, plus profit bonus, paid time off and matching 401(k). For more company information, please visit our web site www.awf.com. AWF is an EEO employer.
Corporate Office
9740 Patuxent Woods Drive, Ste. 500
Columbia, MD 21046
800-624-9663 / 410-290-8700
Fax 410-290-6660
Other Locations
Jessup, MD / Schofield, WI / Pella, IA / Lebanon, KY / Clarks, NE / Marysville, CA / Marshall, TX / Circleville, OH / Marion, VA / Jamestown, CA / Laurinburg, NC
Visit us at: www.awf.com

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