CAREER

Log Graders and Scalers

Overview

Salary Median (2020)

$36,900

Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)

-11.4% (decline)

Most Common Level of Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Career

What Log Graders and Scalers Do

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.

Other Job Titles Log Graders and Scalers May Have

Log Buyer, Log Check Scaler, Log Grader, Log Scaler, Lumber Grader, Scaler, Timber Buyer

Tasks & Responsibilities May Include

  • Evaluate log characteristics and determine grades, using established criteria.
  • Record data about individual trees or load volumes into tally books or hand-held collection terminals.
  • Measure felled logs or loads of pulpwood to calculate volume, weight, dimensions, and marketable value, using measuring devices and conversion tables.
  • Paint identification marks of specified colors on logs to identify grades or species, using spray cans, or call out grades to log markers.
  • 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.

This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.