Life As a Log Grader or Scaler
Job Description: 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.
Log Grader or Scaler Responsibilities
- Communicate with coworkers by using signals to direct log movement.
- Paint identification marks of specified colors on logs to identify grades or species, using spray cans, or call out grades to log markers.
- Identify logs of substandard or special grade so that they can be returned to shippers, regraded, recut, or transferred for other processing.
- Weigh log trucks before and after unloading, and record load weights and supplier identities.
- Arrange for hauling of logs to appropriate mill sites.
- Measure log lengths and mark boles for bucking into logs, according to specifications.
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Log Grader or Scaler Skills
When polled, Log Graders and Scalers say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
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 Jobs
- Timber Buyer
- Compounding Scaler
- Log Grader
- Landing Scaler
- Procurement Forester
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 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.
Do Log Graders and Scalers Make A Lot Of Money?
The average yearly salary of a Log Grader or Scaler ranges between $24,610 and $53,230.

Log Graders and Scalers who work in Washington, Oregon, or Wisconsin, make the highest salaries.
How much do Log Graders and Scalers make 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 & Technology do Log Graders and Scalers Use?
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Log Graders and Scalers may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
How to Become a Log Grader or Scaler
Are there Log Graders and Scalers education requirements?

What work experience do I need to become a Log Grader or Scaler?

Log Graders and Scalers Sector

Log Graders and Scalers work in the following industries:

References:
More about our data sources and methodologies.
Featured Schools
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