What is a Log Grader or Scaler?
Job Description & Duties 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.
Life As a Log Grader or Scaler: What Do They Do?
- Arrange for hauling of logs to appropriate mill sites.
- Tend conveyor chains that move logs to and from scaling stations.
- Weigh log trucks before and after unloading, and record load weights and supplier identities.
- 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.
- Measure log lengths and mark boles for bucking into logs, according to specifications.
- Drive to sawmills, wharfs, or skids to inspect logs or pulpwood.
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What Skills Do You Need to Work as a Log Grader or Scaler?
Below is a list of the skills most Log Graders and Scalers say are important on the job.
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.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Types of Log Grader or Scaler Jobs
- Deck Specialist
- Compounding Scaler
- Log Marker
- Contract Forester
- Check Scaler
Job Outlook 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 for Log Grader or Scaler 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 worst job growth for this type of profession.
Log Grader or Scaler Average Salary
The typical yearly salary for Log Graders and Scalers is somewhere between $24,610 and $53,230.

Log Graders and Scalers who work in Washington, Oregon, or Wisconsin, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Log Graders and Scalers in different U.S. states.
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $39,350 |
Arkansas | $38,100 |
California | $40,480 |
Florida | $30,530 |
Georgia | $37,410 |
Idaho | $43,020 |
Indiana | $46,740 |
Kentucky | $31,410 |
Louisiana | $35,900 |
Maine | $39,170 |
Michigan | $43,390 |
Mississippi | $45,040 |
Missouri | $30,460 |
Montana | $40,560 |
New Hampshire | $40,480 |
New York | $40,060 |
North Carolina | $41,610 |
Ohio | $35,750 |
Oregon | $43,890 |
Pennsylvania | $36,670 |
South Carolina | $39,250 |
Tennessee | $34,330 |
Texas | $32,640 |
Vermont | $41,150 |
Virginia | $35,680 |
Washington | $47,480 |
West Virginia | $35,780 |
Wisconsin | $47,130 |
What Tools do Log Graders and Scalers Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Log Graders and Scalers:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
How to Become a Log Grader or Scaler
What education is needed to be a Log Grader or Scaler?

How many years of work experience do I need?

Log Graders and Scalers Sector

The table below shows the approximate number of Log Graders and Scalers employed by various industries.

References:
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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