ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Wood Chipper Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wright Tree Service

Groundworker

Ionia, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

Works around excessive noise from machines, chainsaws, wood chipper and must wear proper personal protective equipment. * Is exposed to all temperatures and weather; will be exposed to nature, i.e ...

Wright Tree Service

Groundworker

Ionia, MI

$14.50 - $18/hr

Works around excessive noise from machines, chainsaws, wood chipper and must wear proper personal protective equipment. * Is exposed to all temperatures and weather; will be exposed to nature, i.e ...

Wright Tree Service

Tree Trimmer

Fort White, FL · On-site

Loads and unloads trucks with logs, stumps, brush, and debris and/or feeds brush into a wood chipper. * Repairs slight damage to lawns, fences, and walks caused by tree trimming. * Relays hand ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWood Chipper Jobs

Wood Chipper information

See salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do wood chipper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for wood chipper in the United States is $18.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Wood Chipper vs Tree Trimmer?

AspectWood ChipperTree Trimmer
Required CredentialsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsArborist certification, safety training
Work EnvironmentForestry sites, construction areas, land clearingUrban and suburban trees, parks, residential areas
Employer & IndustryLandscaping, forestry, constructionArboriculture, landscaping, municipal services

While both roles involve working with trees and wood, a Wood Chipper primarily operates machinery to process wood debris, whereas a Tree Trimmer focuses on pruning and maintaining trees. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service provider.

What are some common safety challenges faced by Wood Chippers, and how are they addressed on the job?

Wood Chippers often work with heavy machinery and sharp tools, so safety is a top priority in this role. Common challenges include the risk of injury from moving parts, flying debris, and noise exposure. To address these risks, workers typically follow strict safety protocols such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) like helmets, gloves, ear protection, and safety glasses. Regular safety training, machine maintenance, and adherence to operational procedures also help ensure a safe work environment. Many employers foster a safety-first culture by encouraging team communication and reporting of hazards.

What are wood chippers and what do they do?

Wood chippers are machines designed to reduce wood, such as tree branches, trunks, and limbs, into smaller wood chips or mulch. They are commonly used in landscaping, forestry, and by municipal workers to manage and dispose of organic debris. Wood chippers work by feeding wood into a chute, where powerful blades or hammers cut and shred the material. The resulting chips can be used for mulching, composting, or as biomass fuel. Proper safety precautions are essential when operating wood chippers due to their powerful cutting mechanisms.

Do you need training to use a wood chipper?

Yes, training is recommended for operating a wood chipper to ensure safe and proper use, as it involves handling heavy equipment and potentially hazardous materials. Many employers provide or require safety training and certification before allowing workers to operate a wood chipper.

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

To thrive as a Wood Chipper, you need a solid understanding of forestry operations, physical stamina, and experience handling heavy machinery, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial wood chippers, chainsaws, and protective safety equipment is typically required, and OSHA safety certification is highly valued. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are critical soft skills for ensuring safety and efficiency on the job. These skills and qualifications are essential to maintain safe work environments, prevent injuries, and achieve productivity in physically demanding outdoor settings.

What jobs pay $50 an hour in California?

A wood chipper operator can earn around $50 an hour with experience, proper safety training, and certification. Skilled trades such as crane operators or heavy equipment operators also often reach this pay rate, especially with overtime or in specialized environments. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and employer, but these roles are among those that can pay $50 an hour or more in California.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A wood chipper operator can earn around $4,000 a week with experience, especially in industries like forestry or landscaping where heavy machinery operation is involved. These roles typically require safety certifications and physical stamina but do not usually require a college degree. High-paying skilled trades, sales positions, or entrepreneurial ventures can also reach this income level without a degree.

How much do wood chippers make?

Wood chippers are typically employed in forestry, landscaping, or tree care, and their wages vary by experience, location, and employer. On average, they earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Certification in equipment operation and safety can influence earning potential.
More about Wood Chipper jobs
What cities are hiring for Wood Chipper jobs? Cities with the most Wood Chipper job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wood Chipper jobs? The most popular types of Wood Chipper jobs are:
What states have the most Wood Chipper jobs? States with the most job openings for Wood Chipper jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Wood Chipper jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wood Chipper jobs are:
Wood Chipper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wood Chipper job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,931 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Driver - Class B

Driver - Class B

Go-Staff General Labor, Industrial & Housekeeping

Las Vegas, NV

$20/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

Job description

Only 10% driving, the rest of the position is hauling cut branches and brush to wood chipper to mulch and once filled make dump runs. Very Physically Demanding. Preferably Class B Drivers who will operate Tree Trimming Truck that has a lift basket and pulls a trailer with a chipper. Willing to take a Class C and help them acquire a Class B. Must have a Clean Driving Record to be Insurable Driver. Must have experience with driving vehicles with a trailer. Pay Scale: $20/hr and up. 5am-6am start time.

  • Do you have a valid CA driver's license?
  • What class of drivers license do you have?
  • Do you have a clean driving record?
  • Do you have experience driving a large truck while towing a trailer?
  • Do you have any tree trimming experience (not landscaping)?
  • Are you capable of doing laborious work all day?
  • Do you have experience operating a wood chipper?
  • Are you willing to take a drug test?
  • Do you have a verifiable work reference within the last year that we can call and get a reference from?
  • Are you looking for a long term, permanent position?

Apply