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Logging Equipment Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bucket Operator - Suffolk, VA

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience Requirements Prior heavy equipment operating experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred ...

Bucket Operator - Lynchburg, VA

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience Requirements Prior heavy equipment operating experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred ...

Showing results 21-40

Logging Equipment Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do logging equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for logging equipment operator in Virginia is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a logging equipment operator?

To thrive as a Logging Equipment Operator, you need hands-on skills in operating and maintaining heavy logging machinery, a high school diploma or GED, and often prior experience in forestry or equipment operation. Familiarity with tools such as feller bunchers, skidders, loaders, and the use of safety gear or required certifications (like OSHA or first aid) is essential. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help operators adapt to changing conditions and work collaboratively onsite. These abilities are vital to ensuring both safety and efficiency in a physically demanding and potentially hazardous forest work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by logging equipment operators on the job?

Logging Equipment Operators often work in rugged outdoor environments, which can expose them to harsh weather, uneven terrain, and physical demands. Operating heavy machinery around other workers and obstacles requires constant attention to safety protocols and communication with the team. Adjusting to changing forest conditions, mechanical issues, or tight production schedules can also be challenging. However, these aspects provide valuable experience and skill growth, making the role engaging for those who enjoy hands-on, impactful work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Logging Equipment Operator jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Logging Equipment Operator jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Logging Equipment Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,882 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Bucket Operator - Petersburg, VA

XYLEM TREE EXPERTS INC

Virginia State University, VA • On-site

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Xylem Tree Experts rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 36 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

Bucket Operator

The Bucket Operator operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. Must be able to operate the Bucket Truck, trim from the bucket and climb. Driver's license is required; CDL is preferred. This is a full-time role with benefits and overtime may be required.

Essential Functions
  • Always follow and help enforce safe practices and rules
  • Assist in preparing equipment and materials for each day's work at Foreperson's direction
  • Operate equipment as directed by Foreperson
  • Help maintain and repair equipment and tools used in operations
  • Assist other crew members in all aspects of daily activities and take a leadership role when required
  • Cleans up and disposes of all debris
  • Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, markers, etc. to protect employees and public
  • Keeps informed on new equipment, specifications, standard practices, operating procedures, and customer and company employee relations policies and practices.
  • Track and report mileage to Foreperson
  • Perform duties for storm work as needed
Supervisory Responsibilities

Equipment Operators have no direct reports.

Experience Requirements

Prior heavy equipment operating experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred

Education Requirements

High School diploma or education equivalent preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Must be knowledgeable about the daily maintenance and safe operations of all equipment used
  • Must possess physical strength and good balance to climb into and around mobile equipment
  • Must be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times a day
  • Must be able to work outdoors under varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions
  • Must be able to hear verbal instructions from a distance
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR
  • Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Must have good vision and be attentive
  • Must have and maintain a Driver's License if hired for a driving position; must have and maintain a CDL and DOT Medical Card to operate any truck over 26,000 lbs.
  • Must be able to write, read and comprehend written and verbal job instructions/information
  • Must be able to maintain balance over uneven terrain
  • Must be able to communicate with others
  • Must have endurance necessary to perform duties throughout a standard eight or ten hour day
  • Must be able to travel out of town for storm restoration work when needed

This position requires employee to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job.

Must meet I-9 requirements. This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

Xylem Tree Experts and Kendall Vegetation Services provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

XKIG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, including the ADA. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at 877-418-2999.

This is a full-time position that offers health insurance benefits for medical, vision, and dental, as well as the option for enrollment in a 401K.

Eligibility and accrual timelines for Paid Time Off (PTO) vary by position with some roles gaining PTO immediately and others becoming eligible after a set period of employment. Details are provided during the hiring process and may vary for Union hires.

As part of our commitment to efficiency and innovation, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools during the recruiting and onboarding processes. These tools assist with tasks such as resume screening, interview scheduling, and communication. All decisions regarding hiring and employment are ultimately made by our human team.

Travel Required

Yes. Travel is required during storm restoration work when needed.


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