Knuckleboom Operator & Foreman

Position: Loader Operator / Logging Foreman

Location: Franklin County, Virginia and surrounding areas (Montgomery County, Floyd County, SW Roanoke County)

Employment Type: Full-Time

About Us

Thompson Specialist is a professional logging company serving the Appalachian region. We are committed to safe, efficient timber harvesting while maintaining high standards of workmanship and environmental responsibility. We are seeking an experienced Loader Operator / Foreman to lead daily logging operations and help ensure safe, productive, and efficient timber harvesting.

Job Responsibilities

Crew Leadership: Supervise and coordinate daily logging operations, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and according to company standards.

Loader Operation: Operate log loaders to sort, stack, load, and organize timber for transportation.

Log Grading: Accurately identify, sort, and grade logs according to species, quality, and mill specifications.

Production Management: Monitor crew performance and workflow to maintain productivity goals while ensuring quality workmanship.

Safety Compliance: Enforce OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and proper PPE use among all crew members.

Equipment Maintenance: Perform daily inspections and basic maintenance of loaders and related equipment. Report mechanical issues promptly.

Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact between crew members, truck drivers, and company management.

Environmental Stewardship: Ensure compliance with forestry best management practices and environmental regulations.

Qualifications

• Minimum two (2) years of supervisory, foreman, or crew leadership experience required.
• Loader operator and/or log grading experience required.
• References verifying supervisory and logging experience are required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Strong knowledge of logging operations, timber harvesting practices, and job site safety.
• Ability to effectively lead and motivate a crew in a production environment.
• Experience operating log loaders and other forestry equipment.
• Knowledge of timber species, log grades, and mill specifications.
• Valid driver's license required.
• CDL is a plus but not required.
• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to work in rugged terrain, steep slopes, and remote logging locations.
• Must be able to climb on and off equipment safely throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds when necessary.
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Must be capable of making sound decisions in a fast-paced production environment.

What We Offer

• Competitive wages based on experience and qualifications.
• Weekly Load Count Bonus
• Safety-focused work environment.
• Supportive team atmosphere.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit a resume or equivalent work history that includes:

• A minimum of two (2) previous employers
• Contact information for each employer
• Dates of employment
• Description of supervisory, loader operation, and logging experience
• References verifying required experience

Applicants who do not submit a resume or equivalent work history with at least two previous employers and contact information will not be considered for employment.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Thompson Specialist is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value hard work, leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to safety.

Pay: $200.00 - $300.00 per day

Application Question(s):

• How many years of log grading experience do you have?
• How many crew members have you supervised at once?

Experience:

• Supervising: 2 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $200 - $300