| Types Of Operators |
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Types of Operators
Oregon's forest operator sector is diverse.
Associated Oregon Loggers represents forest operators who complete contracted services in the woods. Today’s forest contractor is a logging professional who manages forestry operations through innovation, technology, utilization and Oregon’s high environmental standards. Loggers and other forest operators do more than cut and deliver logs to mills; they also plant and establish the young forests, build forest roads, restore ecosystems, protect the environment and fight wildfires. When a forest landowner thinks about harvesting a portion of their forest, developing a plan with a logging professional and/or a forestry consultant is the first step to accomplish the owner’s management objectives. There’s a bright future for men and women seeking rewarding careers in the outdoors to manage forests and make the renewable forest products we use every day. Oregon’s forest sector is a world leader in managing abundant forests! Oregon’s forest sector employs at least 85,000* men and women—including 15,000 in logging operations, 18,000 in allied forestry, and 52,000 in manufacturing. That means over 70,000 Oregonians enjoy a variety of rewarding forestry careers engaged in outdoor work to manage forests, grow trees and harvest timber products. ![]() Logging
Logging operations involve the harvest and processing of timber and wood from the forest to the mills. Many industries rely on the management and work that loggers do in the forest. Learn More![]() Roading
Roading crews include everyone from the road builders to the grader operators and the rock crushers. Learn More![]() Transportation
A forest industry driver has many load options, many types of trucks, and each driving assignment demands a variety of responsibilities and skills. This truck driver often works independently, yet frequently coordinates closely with other workers during loading and unloading of forest products or machinery. Learn More![]() Firefighting
Firefighters do so much more than just fight fire! Yes, they engage in initial and direct attacks on fires. But they also complete back burns, do mop-up, develop contingency line and much more. Outside of fire season they also establish and maintain fire breaks, complete prescribed fire treatments and do other fuel mitigation work. Learn More![]() Reforestation
Plants trees in harvested and sometimes challenging locations where 2-3 trees are planted for every tree that is harvested, supporting the sustainability of healthy working forests. Underplanting also occurs after fires in un-harvested forests. Learn More![]() Restoration
Much of the work that happens in Oregon's forests can be categorized as restoration, although not all treatments have this as their primary goal. Restoration work can be categorized as commercial or non-commercial. Here we explain non-commercial restoration work completed through service contracts and stewardship authority. Learn More![]() Technician
Technicians support the work of forest management through developing silviculture prescriptions; marking, cruising, and appraising timber stands; coordinating harvest activities; and helping landowners post disturbance. They may work independently or in a crew setting. Learn More![]() Mechanic Service
Every forest management operation jobsite employs a range of mechanized technology, heavy equipment, automated machines, diesel trucks, and small motors. The forest sector “mechanic” is responsible for the prompt and efficient repair of high-tech equipment, as well as preventative service, that keeps machinery producing without needless breakdowns. Learn MoreFind a CareerThere’s a bright future for men and women seeking rewarding careers in the outdoors to manage forests and make the renewable forest products we use every day. Oregon’s forest sector is a world leader in managing abundant forests! Career CenterForest Technology and Innovation
Advances in technology over the last century have changed harvesting and reforestation techniques at a lightning fast pace. Continuous improvement in forest engineering helps meet America’s demand for forest products, while complying with ecological demands. Technology has been the key to better care for the environment, as well as improved safety, productivity, and fiber utilization. Today’s forest operation is amazing compared to yesteryear’s Paul Bunyan. Even a 1980’s logger would not recognize much of the modern technology now in use! Innovations in logging methods combine with forest science to improve techniques for low-impact harvesting, reducing fire risk, keeping forests looking healthy, well designed road access, protecting streams, and enhancing wildlife habitat. The latest technology makes sustainable forestry and ecosystem management possible during harvesting, roading and transportation. The growing and harvesting of trees is an effective tool to sustain desired forest resources over time. The sophistication of harvesting today is a surprise to most people. Modern logging equipment can now process an entire tree into log lengths in one motion, thereby saving time, improving safety, and reducing impacts on the environment. Computer systems are integrated into forest machinery, producing optimized performance, less energy use, a cleaner environment and greater wood utilization. Today’s machines are purpose-built to be more efficient and have lower site impacts. Much of this innovation in forest operations results from skilled loggers, who apply their extensive on-the-ground experience to continually improve methods and mechanization. Forest Industry Trading Cards
AOL's Industry Trading cards are designed to showcase the numerous careers and opportunities in the woods. There are 3 'Types' which includes TOOLS (brown), TRADES (teal), and TECHNOLOGY (green), and indicates the primary crew that each of these are associated with (Roading, Harvester, Logging, Forestry etc.). The cards also compare 6 aspects of the work (Physical Fitness, Outdoor work, Technology, Previous Experience, Leadership and Work Independently) on a '# / 5' scale. Learn More![]() |