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Skidder Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Pala Group

Helical Equipment Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · 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 ...

Pala Group

Helical Equipment Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · 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 ...

SolPowerlines LLC

Equipment Operator

Bridge City, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/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 ...

SolPowerlines LLC

Equipment Operator

Monroe, LA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/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 ...

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 ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Rover

Lebanon, OR · On-site

$39.18/hr

Ability to perform as Loader Operator, Shovel Logger, Processor Operator, leveling shovel, skidder and yoder as required. * Train as necessary to maintain competency on all equipment. * Flow to work ...

Weyerhaeuser Company

Rover

Lebanon, OR · On-site

$39.18/hr

Ability to perform as Loader Operator, Shovel Logger, Processor Operator, leveling shovel, skidder and yoder as required. * Train as necessary to maintain competency on all equipment. * Flow to work ...

Biery

3rd Shift Packing Technician I (PT1)

Louisville, OH · On-site

$16.25/hr

Skidder * Turner/Opener * Form Handler * Cryovac Operator/Trayer * Assembler * Racker * Process Grinders Essential Duties/Responsibilities: * Assist in supporting a safe and healthy work environment ...

Teya Development LLC

Laborer

Kenai, AK · On-site

$18/hr

... skidder, operate vehicles, maintain vehicles and small equipment, fuel equipment, Mobilize ... by shoveling, operating a snow blower as needed and any other equipment required safely. • ...

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Skidder Operator information

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$15

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$27

How much do skidder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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 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 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.

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

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 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 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 depend on experience, location, and the complexity of the work environment, which often requires operating heavy machinery and adhering to safety standards.
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Skidder Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Skidder Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,585 per year, or $21 per hour.

ATL OPERATOR

THE BEASLEY GROUP

Hazlehurst, GA • On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate the ATL/log loader to unload, sort, and stack logs in designated areas.

  • Supply logs to the infeed/log deck to ensure continuous production flow and prevent mill downtime.

  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventive maintenance, and report hazards or equipment issues.

Job description

ob Title: 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. 

60 HRS WORK SCHEDULE, 12 HR SHIFTS, 5 DAY WORK WEEK, OCCASSIONAL WEEKENDS, 

BENEFITS AVAILABLE, PTO, 401K, AND MORE. 

NIGHT SHIFT DIFFERENTAL PAY AVAILABLE. 

Job Summary

The ATL Log Loader Operator safely operates an ATL (or similar knuckleboom/log loader) to unload, sort, stack, and supply logs to the mill. This position is responsible for maintaining steady log flow to production, protecting equipment, and maintaining an organized, safe log yard while following all safety policies and environmental requirements.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Operate ATL/log loader to unload log trucks, sort logs by species/length/grade, and stack logs in designated decks.

  • Supply logs to the infeed/log deck to meet production needs; maintain consistent flow and avoid starving the mill.

  • Inspect incoming logs for foreign material (metal, rocks, chains) and report hazards to reduce downtime and equipment damage.

  • Communicate with truck drivers and scale house to coordinate unloading order and traffic flow.

  • Maintain log yard organization: build stable stacks/decks, maintain clear lanes, and keep fire lanes and access routes open.

  • Perform daily equipment inspections (pre-start and post-shift) and document:

    • fluids, filters, grease points, lights/alarms, tires/tracks, brakes, hydraulics, boom and grapple condition

  • Perform basic preventive maintenance: fueling, greasing, cleaning cab, reporting leaks/abnormal sounds.

  • Work safely around pedestrians, trucks, and heavy equipment; maintain safe swing radius and load control.

  • Assist with yard housekeeping: remove debris, manage mud/dust control (as assigned), maintain berms/drainage.

  • Follow all safety and environmental rules: PPE, spill response, stormwater controls, and fire prevention procedures.

  • Respond to production changes, weather conditions, and shifting priorities to maintain uptime.

  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED (preferred)

  • 1+ year experience operating heavy equipment (log loader/knuckleboom preferred) or willingness to train with demonstrated aptitude

  • Ability to operate equipment safely in tight areas with traffic and changing ground conditions

  • Ability to pass pre-employment screening (as applicable)

  • Willingness to work shifts, weekends, and overtime

  • Strong safety mindset and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior woodyard/sawmill experience

  • Experience unloading log trucks and building stable log decks

  • Basic mechanical knowledge (hydraulic leaks, hose wear, pins/bushings, grease/PM routines)

  • Familiarity with radio communication and mill traffic control

  • Forklift, dozer, or skidder experience (a plus)

Physical & Work Environment

  • Work outdoors in heat/cold/rain and dusty conditions

  • Prolonged sitting with repetitive hand/foot controls

  • Ability to climb in/out of equipment multiple times per shift

  • Exposure to noise, vibration, and uneven terrain

  • PPE required: hard hat (as required), safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, high-vis, steel-toe boots

Safety-Critical Expectations

  • Maintain three points of contact entering/exiting equipment

  • Use seatbelt at all times in equipment

  • Never swing loads over people/vehicles; maintain clear communication and exclusion zones

  • Stop work and report hazards/near misses immediately

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