Logger

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Work Tasks

• Cut down trees from large forests; trim and cut trees into lengths
• Put chokers (steel cables) around logs to be dragged by tractors or helicopters to a landing area
• Load and unload logs from trucks and trains
• Look at logs for defects, measure logs, and decide how much they are worth
• Work outside for logging contractors, sawmills, planing mills, tree services, and for themselves
• Work with trees, logs, chain saws, felling equipment, steel cables, chains, guy wires, harvesters, tractors, hard hats and other protective gear

Salary, Size & Growth

• $36,000 average per year ($17.25 per hour)
• A medium occupation (34,800 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow slowly (0.5% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: On-the-job training
• Employers Prefer: A 2-year degree in forest harvesting
• Skills/Courses: Courses in forest safety
• Certification/Licensing: Some states offer certification after training.