How much does a wood sawing operator make?

In the U.S., experience, useful training or certificates, the employer or industry, location, and job duties can all affect pay. CNC saw work or becoming a lead sawyer may make a difference, and overtime or shift premiums can change total pay.

Set up, operate, or tend wood sawing machines. May operate computer numerically controlled (CNC) equipment. Includes lead sawyers. Workers who primarily program or operate CNC equipment are classified in “Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators and Programmers” (51-9160).

What's a typical day like?

At a U.S. sawmill, a wood sawing operator checks the work order, measures logs or boards, and adjusts the blade for each cut. They run the saw, watch for jams or rough cuts, check board sizes, and clean and lubricate the machine.

In the U.S., finish high school or a GED (usually expected) and apply to a sawmill; little or no previous experience may be enough. Learn on the job over days to a year, or try a registered apprenticeship such as Head Sawyer.

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

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

A USDA test found laser, color-camera, and X-ray scanners graded 89 red-oak boards 31% more accurately than the mill's human graders.