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Skidder Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CERES

Logging Operator

Cameron Park, CA

$25 - $35/hr

... skidder, log loader, track chipper, skid steer, sennebogen, masticator, tree handler wheel and ... Essential Qualifications: * 2-3 years or more of experience in operating logging or heavy equipment.

THE BEASLEY GROUP

ATL OPERATOR

Hazlehurst, GA · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

ATL Log Loader Operator Department: Woodyard / Log Yard Reports To: Woodyard Supervisor / Yard ... Forklift, dozer, or skidder experience (a plus) Physical & Work Environment * Work outdoors in heat ...

SolPowerlines LLC

Equipment Operator

Edmond, OK · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Communicate with line crews, dispatch, and system operators regarding switching orders and ... Possible equipment operation (skidder, excavator, skid steer, chipper etc.) * Clean and maintain ...

Pala Group LLC

Helical Equipment Operator

Marshall, TX · On-site

Track hoe, skidder and backhoe Reads, studies and interprets job specifications, plans and blue prints. Uses basic math skills including geometry, trigonometry to make calculations for work. Can ...

Ten Mile- Washington

Skilled Laborer

Washington, PA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Skidder CDL not required but is a plus. POSITION REQUIREMENTS: * 2 years previous experience operating heavy equipment preferred; * Pass pre-employment drug/alcohol screen and criminal background ...

Ten Mile- Washington

Skilled Laborer

Washington, PA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Skidder CDL not required but is a plus. POSITION REQUIREMENTS: * 2 years previous experience operating heavy equipment preferred; * Pass pre-employment drug/alcohol screen and criminal background ...

Ten Mile- Washington

Skilled Laborer

Washington, PA

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Skidder CDL not required but is a plus. POSITION REQUIREMENTS: * 2 years previous experience operating heavy equipment preferred; * Pass pre-employment drug/alcohol screen and criminal background ...

Ten Mile- Washington

Skilled Laborer

Washington, PA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Skidder CDL not required but is a plus. POSITION REQUIREMENTS: * 2 years previous experience operating heavy equipment preferred; * Pass pre-employment drug/alcohol screen and criminal background ...

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Skidder Operator information

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How much do skidder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 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.

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 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.

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 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.
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Skidder Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Skidder Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,585 per year, or $21 per hour.
Experienced Road Construction Operator

Experienced Road Construction Operator

Ten Mile

Washington, PA • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Ten Mile is your industry leader in excavating, pipeline, road construction, paving and more!  We take pride in being a locally-owned and operated company that provides all the advantages of a large scale company, while maintaining our small town values. These values have been the foundation of our company, and continue to be the driving force behind our operation standards. 

Ten Mile is looking for experienced Road Construction Operators.  Extensive equipment knowledge is a required, equipment GPS experience is not required but a plus. Willingness to assist in labor tasks is required.  Depending on experience, pay range for these positions are $25-$28/hr and a company truck may be included with job offer if assigned tasks will require. 

What We Offer

  • Health and Vision insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Life insurance
  • 401(k) Plans
  • Career progression

Ability to operate and/or learn various pieces of heavy equipment for site reclamation, road work, and right of way pipeline work including, but not limited to:

  • Dozer
  • Excavator
  • Roller
  • Skid Steer
  • Rock Truck
  • Grader
  • Skidder

CDL not required but is a plus.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

  • 2 years previous experience operating heavy equipment preferred;
  • Pass pre-employment drug/alcohol screen and criminal background check;
  • Ability to maintain a Medical Examiner's Certificate for DOT vehicles;
  • Be willing to work holidays, weekends and nights when necessary;
  • Ability to work overtime when required;
  • Properly follow all company policies and procedures for safe working procedures and environment;
  • Strictly adhere to safety requirements and procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook;
  • Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) in designated operations and production areas;
  • Perform daily inspections of equipment with appropriate documentation;
  • Thorough operational knowledge and skills of related equipment to be operated;
  • Display a professional and courteous attitude to customers, co-workers, supervisors, and the general public at all times;
  • Willingness to work in a team environment and assist co-workers or supervisors with other duties as required;
  • Must keep equipment in a clean and orderly condition;
  • Follow directions of manager as to daily tasks and expectations for each specific project or jobsite;
  • Able to work in all weather conditions;
  • Perform general labor duties when necessary; 
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Report to work at the designated start time;
  • Great attention to detail and stress tolerance.

Environment
This position will require working outdoors in various climate conditions ranging from very cold with rain to very hot and humid. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high, with occasional periods of time exposed to machine noise.

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment 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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