Careers · Log Graders and Scalers · California
Log Graders and Scalers in California
Log graders and scalers inspect and grade logs at lumber mills, sorting yards, and log decks to determine their quality and market value. They measure logs to calculate volume, identify defects like rot or damage, and sort them for appropriate processing In California the median pay is $56,670 a year, 22% above the national median of $46,330.
$56,670median pay in California, per year
$49,030–$58,770middle half earn
320employed in California
$46,330U.S. median, for comparison
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against log graders and scalers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against log graders and scalers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Active ListeningCritical ThinkingSpeakingWritingActive LearningMonitoringCoordinationJudgment and Decision Making
Knowledge areas
Production and ProcessingMathematics (knowledge)Customer and Personal ServiceAdministration and ManagementMechanicalEducation and Training
Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Log Graders and Scalers.
Licenses and training in California
Log Graders and Scalers pay in other states
Washington · $61,580Oregon · $60,250Idaho · $57,620Michigan · $51,810Maine · $50,180Ohio · $49,710Mississippi · $48,010Louisiana · $47,510New Hampshire · $46,530Indiana · $46,160
Related occupations
FallersLogging Equipment OperatorsLogging Workers, All OtherForest and Conservation WorkersFirst-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry WorkersAgricultural InspectorsAnimal BreedersGraders and Sorters, Agricultural Products
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against log graders and scalers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against log graders and scalers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 45-4023.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, California, annual.