How much does a log grader make?

In the United States, experience and useful certification can affect pay: seasoned graders may be valued more, and some regional scaling work requires a test. Pay can also differ by employer, location, and how complex the work is.

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. Excludes “Buyers and Purchasing Agents, Farm Products” (13-1021).

What's a typical day like?

They walk through log yards or mill ponds, checking logs for knots, splits, rot, and bends. They measure logs, estimate usable volume and value, record grades, and mark logs so crews can sort them.

Most US log graders finish high school or earn a GED, then learn the work on the job; training can last up to a year. Some private scaling-bureau graders must pass a test and earn certification in the scaling rules for their region.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like keeping things organized and building and doing.

Log graders may jab logs with the metal end of a scale stick to check for defects such as rot, splits, knots, or twists.