What are the responsibilities and job description for the CTL Harvester Operator position at Miller Timber Services?
Company Overview
Miller Timber Services is dedicated to sustainable forest management, offering expert solutions in timber harvesting, reforestation, and transportation. We also specialize in wildland firefighting and emergency services for private and government lands, consistently recruiting top-tier professionals to join our team.
Job Summary:
The Cut-to-Length (CTL) Harvester Operator is responsible for operating specialized forestry equipment to harvest timber efficiently, safely, and in accordance with environmental standards. This position utilizes advanced, GPS-integrated harvesting machinery to fell, delimb, measure, and buck trees into specified log lengths directly at the stump. The operator plays a critical role in maximizing timber value through precise log optimization while maintaining equipment performance and minimizing environmental impact.
Key Responsibilities:
- Operate wheeled or tracked CTL harvesters to safely fell, delimb, and process trees.
- Maneuver harvesting equipment through varying terrain, including steep slopes and challenging forest conditions.
- Process timber according to harvest plans, production targets, and customer specifications.
- Maintain situational awareness and coordinate activities with other logging crew members.
- Accurately measure and cut logs to mill specifications and customer requirements.
- Evaluate timber quality and make real-time decisions regarding log lengths, grades, and product allocation.
- Monitor production metrics and adjust harvesting practices to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
- Maintain equipment cleanliness and ensure machinery remains in safe operating condition to minimize downtime.
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.
- Previous experience operating CTL harvesters or other forestry equipment.
- 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.
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 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