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Skidder Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kodama Systems Inc.

Remote Skidder Operator

Macon, GA · On-site +1

$20 - $30/hr

Remote Skidder Operator Note - this is mostly a remote/ work from home (WFH) position but may require reporting in person to project sites or company events. Candidates in Eastern Time Zone are ...

Kodama Systems Inc.

Remote Skidder Operator

Macon, GA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Remote Skidder Operator Note - this is mostly a remote/ work from home (WFH) position but may require reporting in person to project sites or company events. Candidates in Eastern Time Zone are ...

Turner Mining Group

Scaler Operator

Connellsville, PA · On-site

$28.76/hr

What You'll Be Doing * Operate scaling equipment to safely remove loose or unstable rock in underground areas. * Inspect work areas to identify scaling needs and potential hazards. * Maintain ...

Turner Mining Group

Scaler Operator

Connellsville, PA · On-site

$28.76/hr

What You'll Be Doing * Operate scaling equipment to safely remove loose or unstable rock in underground areas. * Inspect work areas to identify scaling needs and potential hazards. * Maintain ...

Turner Mining Group

Scaler Operator

Connellsville, PA · On-site

$28.76/hr

What You'll Be Doing * Operate scaling equipment to safely remove loose or unstable rock in underground areas. * Inspect work areas to identify scaling needs and potential hazards. * Maintain ...

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Skidder Operator information

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$15

$20

$27

How much do skidder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for skidder operator in the United States is $20.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a skidder operator?

To become a skidder operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn operating heavy machinery. Certification in equipment operation or safety courses can improve job prospects, and physical fitness is important due to the demanding outdoor environment and physical tasks involved.

What are some common challenges Skidder Operators face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Skidder Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating rough or uneven terrain, working in adverse weather conditions, and maintaining equipment to prevent breakdowns. Effective communication with the logging crew and adhering to safety protocols are essential for managing these challenges. Operators can also benefit from regular equipment inspections and staying updated on best practices to ensure both productivity and safety on the job.

What Is a Skidder Operator?

A skidder is a vehicle used in the logging industry to remove cut trees from wooded areas. As a skidder operator, your job duties are to clear the work area by safely removing trees using log grapples, cable winches, crane booms, and other skidder accessories. To excel in this job, you must understand how to operate the skidder in varying conditions safely. Additional qualifications for this career include excellent listening skills and experience working in the logging industry.

What is the highest paying heavy equipment operator?

Skidder operators, who operate forestry equipment to move logs, can earn high wages, especially with experience and specialized skills. Generally, heavy equipment operators such as crane, drill, and excavator operators tend to have higher earning potential, with certifications and working in high-risk or remote environments often increasing pay rates.

What is the difference between Skidder Operator vs Log Loader?

AspectSkidder OperatorLog Loader
Credentials/CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentForests, logging sites, rough terrainLogging yards, processing sites, often stationary
Employer/Industry UsageLogging companies, forestry operationsLogging companies, sawmills, processing facilities
Common Search/Comparison IntentSkidder Operator vs Log Loader

The main difference between a Skidder Operator and a Log Loader lies in their roles within logging operations. Skidder Operators primarily move cut trees from the forest to a central location using skidder machines, working in rough outdoor environments. Log Loaders, on the other hand, are responsible for loading logs onto trucks at processing sites. Both roles require similar certifications and safety training, but their work environments and specific duties differ significantly.

How much does a logging skidder operator make?

A logging skidder operator typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the work environment, which often involves operating heavy machinery in outdoor forestry settings.

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

To thrive as a Skidder Operator, you need practical experience with heavy machinery, knowledge of forestry operations, and a valid commercial driver’s license. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, hydraulic controls, and routine equipment maintenance is typically required. Strong situational awareness, communication skills, and a commitment to safety help operators excel in challenging outdoor environments. These skills are vital for efficient timber harvesting, minimizing equipment downtime, and ensuring a safe worksite.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Skidder operators in the logging industry can earn around $4,000 per week with experience and proper certification, especially in high-demand regions. These roles often require knowledge of heavy machinery, safety protocols, and physical stamina, but typically do not require a college degree. High-paying skilled trades like construction supervisors or certain commercial pilots may also reach this income level without a degree, depending on experience and certifications.

What is a Skidder Operator?

A Skidder Operator is a professional who operates a skidder, which is a type of heavy equipment used in logging operations to pull cut trees out of a forest. Their main responsibility is to safely and efficiently move logs from the cutting site to a landing area where they can be processed and loaded for transport. Skidder Operators must be skilled in maneuvering large machinery over rough and uneven terrain, often working in challenging outdoor conditions. They also perform routine maintenance checks on their equipment to ensure safe operation and may work closely with other forestry workers to coordinate logging activities.
More about Skidder Operator jobs
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Skidder Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Skidder Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 3% Physical, and 97% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $43,585 per year, or $21 per hour.
Remote Skidder Operator

Remote Skidder Operator

Kodama Systems Inc.

Macon, GA • On-site, Remote

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Remote Skidder Operator
Note - this is mostly a remote/ work from home (WFH) position but may require reporting in person to project sites or company events.
Candidates in Eastern Time Zone are preferred. Machines may be located in Eastern or Central Time Zones.
About Kodama:
Kodama Systems is a technology company transforming the forestry industry with teleoperation and shared autonomy. With Kodama's remote-control retrofit, machines can be driven from anywhere off project sites, improving safety, reducing costs, and addressing labor challenges across the timber industry. For more information, visit www.kodama.ai.
Position:
We are seeking an experienced Skidder Operator to grow with us. The ideal candidate has experience driving skidders in person and is excited about skidding on commercial job sites and further developing this technology platform to be a workforce multiplier.
Details:
  • Job Type: Full-time
  • Experience: Ability to operate logging machines, specifically skidders
  • Location: This position will be a remote, work from home position
  • Travel: Occasional travel to project sites, depending on company needs
  • Hours: 40+ hrs per week, including extended work shifts given prior notice
  • Compensation: $20-30/hr or equivalent annual salary, depending on experience.

Duties:
  • Remotely control log skidder on commercial operations.
  • Provide user feedback around the operation of remote logging machines
  • Coordinate with Kodama team to maintain machinery and develop the remote control system.
  • Operate machine during engineering development windows outside of production shifts
  • Follow company work orders.
  • Follow company safety protocols
  • Contribute to cross-team company initiatives during non-operating time such as customer outreach, data tracking, and operation documentation.

Requirements:
  • 2+ years experience operating logging machines, preference for skidders
  • Willingness to travel at times for special deployments and work overtime
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to sit for long durations and maintain sound situational awareness
  • Machine troubleshooting and repair knowledge
  • Willingness to work extended work shifts with advanced notice
  • Ability to pass pre-employment background checks
  • Valid U.S. Drivers License

Compensation + Benefits:
  • $20-30 per hour, depending on experience
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and more
  • Travel, meal, and personal protective equipment stipends

Note - due to the volume of inquiries, not all applicants will receive a response.

Apply