Principle Objective
Reporting to the Log Yard Supervisor or Shift Team Lead, the 360° Log Handler Driver is responsible for the safe, efficient handling and management of log stock within the log yard.
The role ensures a continuous and reliable flow of timber into the sawmill production process, primarily through the operation of heavy machinery, while maintaining the highest health, safety, environmental, and operational standards.
Knowledge & Experience
- Proven experience operating heavy machinery (e.g., log handler, excavator, loading shovel, or similar)
- Strong awareness of safe operating procedures and industrial work environments
- Experience working in a fast-paced operational or industrial setting
- Reliable, safety-conscious, and responsible approach to machine operation
- Experience in a sawmill, forestry, quarry, construction, or heavy industrial environment
- Forklift, tractor, or similar plant operation certification
- Familiarity with log grading, stacking, and yard management practices
- Mechanical awareness or basic maintenance experience
Key Responsibilities
- Operate a 360° log handler to unload, stack, sort, and feed logs safely into processing lines
- Spend the majority of working time operating machinery within the cab
- Maintain a consistent supply of timber to support continuous production flow
- Carry out daily pre-start checks and basic maintenance inspections on machinery
- Identify, report, and escalate any mechanical faults or safety concerns
- Work in close collaboration with the log yard and production teams
- Adhere strictly to all health, safety, and environmental procedures
- Maintain high standards of housekeeping across the log yard
- Support loading/unloading of trucks where required
- Participate in toolbox talks, safety briefings, and training sessions
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in log yard efficiency
Essential Competencies
- Safety Awareness – Demonstrates commitment to safe working practices
- Teamwork – Works effectively and cooperatively with others
- Reliability & Work Ethic – Consistent attendance and dependable performance
- Attention to Detail – Maintains quality standards in all tasks
- Adaptability – Flexible and willing to support different tasks/areas
- Communication – Listens, understands, and follows instructions clearly
Key Performance Measures
- Compliance with health and safety standards (zero harm objective)
- Continuous machine uptime and operational efficiency
- Effectiveness in maintaining production feed rates
- Quality of log handling (minimising waste or damage)
- Housekeeping and yard organisation standards
- Attendance, punctuality, and contribution to team performance
- Participation in training and certification requirements
Key Relationships
- Sawmill Production Teams
- Maintenance and Engineering Teams
- Health, Safety & Environmental Personnel
- Transport and Logistics Operators