Logging Processor Operator

Address

Address: 3702-62 Street, Drayton Valley, AB T7A 1S5

Full-time, 50 hours per week, $85,000.00 - $115,000 annual salary (depending on experience) plus overtime

Company Description

Lydell Group is an Alberta owned and operated organization that has become one of the largest logging and hauling contractors in the Province. Our services have expanded to service our clients in road construction, lease building, reclamation, pipeline and lease clearing, mulching services and salvage hauling.

Job Description

We are seeking two experienced Logging Processor Operators to join our team. These individuals will be based out of our main location at 3702-62 Street, Drayton Valley, AB T7A 1S5, and will be required to travel to remote forest locations to complete their work.

Our Logging Processor Operators in forestry are responsible for safely and efficiently operating mechanized processing equipment to fell, delimb, buck, and sort timber according to production requirements and industry standards.

Operators use onboard computer systems to measure logs, follow cutting instructions, and ensure accurate sorting by species, size, and grade.

Additional duties include performing daily inspections, routine maintenance, and basic troubleshooting to keep equipment in optimal condition.

This role requires strict adherence to safety protocols, effective communication with other crew members, and the ability to work independently in remote forest environments and varying weather conditions while meeting production and quality targets.

Responsibilities

• Use onboard computer systems to measure logs and apply correct length, diameter, and species specifications.
• Identify log defects and sort processed timber into appropriate product categories (sawlog, pulpwood, veneer, etc.).
• Monitor machine performance and adjust settings for different tree sizes and site conditions.
• Perform daily equipment inspections, including checking fluids, hydraulics, tracks, and cutting systems.
• Maintain safe operating practices, follow all forestry safety protocols, and ensure safe distances from ground crews and other machines.
• Work efficiently to meet production targets while maintaining high log quality.
• Communicate in English with skidder/forwarder operators, truck drivers, and supervisors to coordinate workflow.
• Record production data and report equipment issues, hazards, or delays to management.
• Conduct daily pre-operation inspections of the machine (fluids, hydraulics, wear components, electronics).
• Perform routine maintenance such as cleaning, lubrication, minor repairs, and replacing parts as needed.
• Report mechanical issues promptly to maintenance staff or supervisors
• Operate mechanized logging processors to delimb, buck, and sort timber according to cutting plans.

Required Skills & Expertise

Candidates must have the following background, skills and characteristics:

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of experience operating a log processor.
• Knowledge of tree species, log grades, and bucking optimization.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read English cutting instructions, forestry maps, and production plans.
• Good understanding of occupational health and safety standards in forestry.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Have a valid license and a clean driving abstract.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to work long hours in remote outdoor forest environments and variable weather conditions.
• Comfortable operating heavy equipment for extended periods.
• Must be able to climb onto equipment, lift moderate weights during maintenance, and work in physically demanding terrain.
• Ability to work shifts, rotating schedules, or camp-based operations may be required.

Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Experience following all safety procedures, including PPE use, machine lockout/tagout, and hazard awareness.
• Ability to operate the processor in a way that minimizes environmental impact, protects waterways, and complies with forest management plans.

Why work at Lydell Group?

• This is a full time position (50 hours per week) with an annual salary of $85,000.00 - $115,000 annual salary (depending on experience) plus overtime.
• Competitive benefits, including use of a company vehicle, dental care, disability insurance, extended health care benefits, life insurance, and vision care.