All About Log Graders and Scalers
Job Description & Duties Grade logs or estimate the marketable content or value of logs or pulpwood in sorting yards, millpond, log deck, or similar locations. Inspect logs for defects or measure logs to determine volume.
What Do Log Graders and Scalers Do On a Daily Basis?
- Jab logs with metal ends of scale sticks, and inspect logs to ascertain characteristics or defects such as water damage, splits, knots, broken ends, rotten areas, twists, and curves.
- Evaluate log characteristics and determine grades, using established criteria.
- Measure log lengths and mark boles for bucking into logs, according to specifications.
- Saw felled trees into lengths.
- Weigh log trucks before and after unloading, and record load weights and supplier identities.
- Drive to sawmills, wharfs, or skids to inspect logs or pulpwood.
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What Every Log Grader or Scaler Should Know
These are the skills Log Graders and Scalers say are the most useful in their careers:
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Types of Log Grader or Scaler Jobs
- Wood Procurement Forester
- Timber Estimator
- Deck Specialist
- Log Scaler
- Pondman
Job Outlook for Log Graders and Scalers
There were about 4,200 jobs for Log Grader or Scaler in 2016 (in the United States). There is little to no growth in job opportunities for Log Grader or Scaler. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 500 job openings in this field each year.

The states with the most job growth for Log Grader or Scaler are Idaho, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania. Watch out if you plan on working in Vermont, Maine, or North Carolina. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Salary for a Log Grader or Scaler
The salary for Log Graders and Scalers ranges between about $24,610 and $53,230 a year.

Log Graders and Scalers who work in Washington, Oregon, or Wisconsin, make the highest salaries.
How much do Log Graders and Scalers make in different U.S. states?
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $39,350 |
Arkansas | $38,100 |
California | $40,480 |
Florida | $30,530 |
Georgia | $37,410 |
Idaho | $43,020 |
Indiana | $46,740 |
Kentucky | $31,410 |
Louisiana | $35,900 |
Maine | $39,170 |
Michigan | $43,390 |
Mississippi | $45,040 |
Missouri | $30,460 |
Montana | $40,560 |
New Hampshire | $40,480 |
New York | $40,060 |
North Carolina | $41,610 |
Ohio | $35,750 |
Oregon | $43,890 |
Pennsylvania | $36,670 |
South Carolina | $39,250 |
Tennessee | $34,330 |
Texas | $32,640 |
Vermont | $41,150 |
Virginia | $35,680 |
Washington | $47,480 |
West Virginia | $35,780 |
Wisconsin | $47,130 |
What Tools & Technology do Log Graders and Scalers Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Log Graders and Scalers:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
Becoming a Log Grader or Scaler
What kind of Log Grader or Scaler requirements are there?

What work experience do I need to become a Log Grader or Scaler?

Where do Log Graders and Scalers Work?

The table below shows the approximate number of Log Graders and Scalers employed by various industries.

References:
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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