What are the responsibilities and job description for the Skidder Operator - Grapple & Cable position at Thompson Specialist?
Job details
Location: Franklin County, VA & Surrounding Areas (Montgomery, Floyd, and Southwest Roanoke Counties)
Pay: $175 – $225 per day paid weekly
Job Type: Full-Time
About Us
Thompson Specialist is a trusted name in Appalachian logging, dedicated to sustainable forestry, efficient timber harvesting, and a strong culture of safety and teamwork. We’re growing and looking for hardworking, reliable crew members to join our logging team.
What You’ll Do
- Timber Harvesting: Fell trees, trim logs, and prepare timber for transport.
- Equipment Operation: Safely operate chainsaws, grapple and cable skidders, loaders, and other logging machinery as needed.
- Site Maintenance: Clear debris, maintain logging roads, and keep work areas safe and organized.
- Safety First: Follow all company safety protocols, and wear PPE at all times.
- Equipment Care: Perform regular inspections and basic maintenance on tools and machinery.
- Teamwork: Work closely with other crew members to ensure efficient and timely operations.
- Environmental Care: Practice sustainable forestry methods to protect natural ecosystems.
What We’re Looking For
- Experience in logging or forestry required.
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Ability to work in physically demanding conditions (lifting up to 75 lbs, steep/rugged terrain, all-weather environments).
- Knowledge of safety protocols and willingness to complete required safety training.
- Basic mechanical skills for equipment upkeep are a plus.
- Valid driver’s license or photo ID required; CDL with air brake endorsement is a bonus but not required.
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred but not required.
What We Offer
- Competitive daily rate of pay, paid weekly ($175–$225, based on skills & experience)
- Comprehensive safety training & PPE provided
- Opportunities to grow and advance within the company
- Supportive, team-focused work environment
How to Apply
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. (you will need to copy and paste this into a web browser to provide the required information)
Submit resume and previous employers here:
https://form.jotform.com/carraigbawn05/thompsonspecialistemployment
Qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews on a rolling basis.
Candidates without contact information will not be considered.
Thompson Specialist is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $175.00 - $225.00 per day
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Application Question(s):
- What size skidder(s) have you operated?
Please list the manufacturer/model and size of each skidder you have experience operating.
Important: A skidder and a skid steer are two different types of equipment and require different operating skills. Please list skidder experience only.
Experience:
- Skidder operator: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $175 - $225