CTL Forwarder Operator

Company Overview
Miller Timber Services is dedicated to sustainable forest management and providing comprehensive timber solutions. Our expertise spans harvesting, reforestation, transportation, and emergency services, including wildland firefighting. We are committed to supporting both private and government land management agencies with top-tier forestry operations.

Job Summary:
The Cut-to-Length (CTL) Forwarder Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently transporting processed timber from the harvest site to designated roadside landings. Operating our Ponsse forwarder equipped with an onboard boom and grapple, the operator loads, transports, sorts, and unloads logs while supporting sustainable forestry practices. This role plays a critical part in maintaining production flow, protecting soil resources, and ensuring high equipment utilization within CTL harvesting operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate a CTL forwarder to collect logs that have been cut, delimbed, and processed by a CTL harvester.
• Navigate harvest blocks safely and efficiently while maintaining productivity targets.
• Transport timber from stump-to-roadside locations in accordance with operational plans and environmental standards.
• Unload timber at roadside landings while maintaining proper organization and inventory control.
• Handle timber carefully to minimize product damage and maximize log value.
• Comply with all environmental regulations, best management practices, and company sustainability objectives.
• Conduct pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections.
• Perform routine maintenance, including greasing, fueling, fluid checks, and cleaning.
• Identify mechanical or hydraulic issues and complete minor field repairs when possible.
• Report maintenance needs and equipment concerns promptly to supervisors or maintenance personnel.
• Adhere to all company safety policies, forestry regulations, and operating procedures.
• Maintain awareness of personnel, equipment, and environmental hazards within the work area.
• Participate in safety meetings, training programs, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Valid driver's license with insurable DMV driving record.
• Must be able to travel.
• Must be able to pass a drug test and ongoing random testing per government requirements.
• Must have valid medical certification card.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience operating heavy equipment, such as excavators, loaders, masticators or other forestry machinery.
• Previous experience operating CTL forwarders or other forestry equipment preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions.
• Capable of operating equipment on steep, uneven, and soft terrain.
• Ability to tolerate extended periods of sitting, vibration, and repetitive equipment operation.
• Ability to climb on and off equipment and perform routine maintenance tasks.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Primarily outdoor work in remote forest environments.
• Exposure to heavy machinery, loud noise, and natural elements.
• Full-time position with potential for extended hours, early mornings, and overtime based on operational needs.
• High emphasis on safety due to the hazardous nature of logging operations.

Drug-Free Workplace Policy:
We maintain a strict drug-free workplace policy. Pre-employment drug testing is required, and ongoing random drug screening may be conducted, including substances prohibited under federal law (e.g., marijuana).

Compensation:

Depends on Experience.

Pay: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour

Expected hours: 50.0 – 60.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $25 - $28