Log Graders and Scalers

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.

Median Annual Wage: $35,430

Education: High school diploma or equivalent (32%); Less than high school diploma (24%); Post-secondary certificate (17%)

Projected Growth: Decline (-3% or lower)

Related Job Titles: Inspector; Log Scaler; Log Buyer; Log Grader; Log Yard Manager; Procurement Forester; Log Check Scaler; Raw Material Manager; Timber Buyer; Veneer Grader

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Log Graders and Scalers.

More Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Careers

  • Record data about individual trees or load volumes into tally books or hand-held collection terminals.
  • Paint identification marks of specified colors on logs to identify grades or species, using spray cans, or call out grades to log markers.
  • Measure felled logs or loads of pulpwood to calculate volume, weight, dimensions, and marketable value, using measuring devices and conversion tables.
  • Measure log lengths and mark boles for bucking into logs, according to specifications.
  • Identify logs of substandard or special grade so that they can be returned to shippers, regraded, recut, or transferred for other processing.
  • Jab logs with metal ends of scale sticks, and inspect logs to ascertain characteristics or defects such as water damage, splits, knots, broken ends, rotten areas, twists, and curves.
  • Drive to sawmills, wharfs, or skids to inspect logs or pulpwood.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Log Graders and Scalers.

  • 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.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Social Perceptiveness - Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Log Graders and Scalers.

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