Log Graders and Scalers

Course Advisor; United States; On-site; USD 24,610 - 53,230; Full time

Job summary

Course Advisor is seeking a Log Grader or Scaler to evaluate logs and pulpwood in the United States. The role requires grading logs to assess their market value while inspecting for defects and measuring their volume. You will record data meticulously and may need to manage load weights and supplier identities for effective logging operations. Ideal candidates should possess strong critical thinking and active listening skills along with proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.

Responsibilities

• Grade logs or estimate marketable content or value.
• Inspect logs for defects and measure volume.
• Record data about trees or load volumes.

Skills

Active Listening

Critical Thinking

Speaking

Active Learning

Writing

Judgment and Decision Making

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Job description

Log Grader or Scaler

All About Log Graders and Scalers

Example of Log Grader or Scaler Job: Grade logs or estimate the marketable content or value of logs or pulpwood in sorting yards, millpond, log deck, or similar locations. Inspect logs for defects or measure logs to determine volume.

What Do Log Graders and Scalers Do On a Daily Basis?

• Record data about individual trees or load volumes into tally books or hand‑held collection terminals.
• Weigh log trucks before and after unloading, and record load weights and supplier identities.
• Saw felled trees into lengths.
• Tend conveyor chains that move logs to and from scaling stations.
• Identify logs of substandard or special grade so that they can be returned to shippers, regraded, recut, or transferred for other processing.
• Arrange for hauling of logs to appropriate mill sites.

Skills Needed to be a Log Grader or Scaler

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem‑solving and decision‑making.

Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Types of Log Grader or Scaler

• Log Grader
• Deckman
• Pondman
• Log Buyer
• Log Manager

Job Opportunities for Log Graders and Scalers

In the United States, there were 4,200 jobs for Log Grader or Scaler in 2016. There is little to no growth in job opportunities for Log Grader or Scaler. There will be an estimated 500 positions per year.

The states with the most job growth for Log Grader or Scaler are Idaho, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania. Watch out if you plan on working in Vermont, Maine, or North Carolina. These states have the lowest job growth for this profession.

Salary for a Log Grader or Scaler

Log Graders and Scalers make between $24,610 and $53,230 a year.

Log Graders and Scalers who work in Washington, Oregon, or Wisconsin, make the highest salaries.

Tools & Technologies Used by Log Graders and Scalers

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Word