Chainsaw Operator

A Chainsaw Operator is responsible for felling trees, cutting logs, and trimming branches using a chainsaw in forestry, land clearing, or vegetation management settings. The role often involves working in outdoor environments, sometimes in remote or rugged areas, and requires a strong understanding of safety protocols and environmental considerations.

Chainsaw Operators may work independently or as part of a team and must maintain their equipment, follow worksite procedures, and sometimes assist with loading and transporting timber. Physical fitness, good hand-eye coordination, and adherence to safety standards are essential for this job, which often supports broader forestry or construction operations.

Future demand Low
Average yearly income $73,840
Skill level Unknown

How do I become a chainsaw operator?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
FWP30122

Certificate III in Forest Operations
On Campus, Traineeship
12 - 24 months
$0 - $11,150
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Loader Operator Forestry Field Officer Forestry Manager
Forestry Supervisor Forestry Worker Chainsaw Operator
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Loader Operator Forestry Field Officer Forestry Manager Forestry Supervisor Forestry Worker Chainsaw Operator + 3 more
FWPCOT2259

Cut Materials with a Hand-held Chainsaw
On Campus
1 day
$490
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Chainsaw Operator Forestry Worker Tree Worker
Landscaper Station Hand
+ 2 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Chainsaw Operator Forestry Worker Tree Worker Landscaper Station Hand + 2 more
FWPCOT2273

Trim and Cut Felled Trees
On Campus
1 - 3 days
$550 - $1,080
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forestry Worker Arborist Chainsaw Operator
Land Management Worker
+ 1 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forestry Worker Arborist Chainsaw Operator Land Management Worker + 1 more
FWPCOT3347

Fell Trees Manually (Intermediate)
On Campus, Online
2 - 4 days
$1,110 - $1,650
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Arborist Climbing Arborist Chainsaw Operator
Utility Arborist Forestry Worker
+ 2 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Arborist Climbing Arborist Chainsaw Operator Utility Arborist Forestry Worker + 2 more
FWPFGM3212

Fall Trees Manually (Intermediate)
On Campus
1 day
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forestry Worker Climbing Arborist Chainsaw Operator
Arborist Utility Arborist
+ 2 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forestry Worker Climbing Arborist Chainsaw Operator Arborist Utility Arborist + 2 more
FWPCOT2259 & FWPCOT2254

Use and Maintain Chainsaws
On Campus
3 days
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Arborist Chainsaw Operator Forestry Worker
Landscape Labourer Landscaper Firefighter Park Ranger Station Hand Construction Labourer
+ 6 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Arborist Chainsaw Operator Forestry Worker Landscape Labourer Landscaper Firefighter Park Ranger Station Hand Construction Labourer + 6 more
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