Logging Crew Foreman & Loader Operator

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Position: Loader Operator / Logging Foreman

Location: Franklin County, Virginia and surrounding areas (Montgomery County, Floyd County, SW Roanoke County)

Employment Type: Full-Time

About Us

Thompson Specialist is a professional logging company serving the Appalachian region. We are committed to safe, efficient timber harvesting while maintaining high standards of workmanship and environmental responsibility. We are seeking an experienced Loader Operator / Foreman to lead daily logging operations and help ensure safe, productive, and efficient timber harvesting.

Job Responsibilities

Crew Leadership: Supervise and coordinate daily logging operations, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and according to company standards. Direct crew members and equipment operators to maintain an efficient workflow from felling through loading.

Equipment Knowledge & Operation: Have strong working knowledge and hands-on experience with the equipment used in logging operations. The Foreman should be capable of safely operating, or have a thorough understanding of the operation of, all equipment used by the crew and be able to step into different equipment roles when needed.

Loader Operation: Operate the loader to sort, stack, merchandise, and load timber for transport while maintaining an organized and productive landing.

De-Limber & Sawbuck Operation: Operate the de-limber and sawbuck to process trees and cut logs to the appropriate lengths according to mill specifications and orders.

Log Grading & Merchandising: Accurately identify, sort, grade, and merchandise logs according to species, quality, length, diameter, and individual mill specifications to maximize timber value.

Production Management: Monitor crew performance, equipment operation, and overall workflow to maintain daily production goals while ensuring quality workmanship and minimizing unnecessary downtime.

Safety Compliance: Enforce company safety policies, safe equipment operation, and proper PPE use among all crew members. Identify and address unsafe practices or job-site conditions promptly.

Equipment Maintenance: Perform and oversee daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance. Monitor equipment condition and report mechanical problems or needed repairs promptly to help prevent unnecessary downtime.

Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact between crew members, truck drivers, and company management. Communicate production needs, trucking requirements, equipment concerns, and job-site issues clearly and promptly.

Environmental Stewardship: Ensure logging operations follow applicable forestry best management practices (BMPs), job-site requirements, and environmental regulations.

Qualifications

• Minimum two (2) years of supervisory, foreman, or crew leadership experience required.
• Proven Loader operator and/or log grading experience required.
• References verifying supervisory and logging experience are required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Strong knowledge of logging operations, timber harvesting practices, and job site safety.
• Ability to effectively lead and motivate a crew in a production environment.
• Experience operating log loaders and other forestry equipment.
• Knowledge of timber species, log grades, and general mill specifications.
• Valid driver's license required.
• CDL is a plus but not required.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to work in rugged terrain, steep slopes, and remote logging locations.
• Must be able to climb on and off equipment safely throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds when necessary.
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Must be capable of making sound decisions in a fast-paced production environment.

What We Offer

• Competitive wages based on experience and qualifications.
• Safety-focused work environment.
• Supportive team atmosphere.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit a resume or equivalent work history that includes:

• A minimum of two (2) previous employers
• Contact information for each employer
• Dates of employment
• Description of supervisory, loader operation, and logging experience
• References verifying required experience

Applicants who do not submit a resume or equivalent work history with at least two previous employers and contact information will not be considered for employment. (you will need to copy and paste this into a web browser to complete)

https://form.jotform.com/carraigbawn05/thompsonspecialistemployment

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Thompson Specialist is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value hard work, leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to safety.

Pay: $225.00 - $325.00 per day

Application Question(s):

• How many years of log grading experience do you have?
• How many crew members have you supervised at once?

Experience:

• Supervising: 2 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person