Careers · Farming, fishing and forestry

Logging Workers, All Other

Logging workers fell trees, remove logs, and transport timber in forests. They operate in timberlands and lumber mills across the country, performing tasks not covered by more specialized logging positions. This work is physically demanding and takes place primarily outdoors in all weather conditions.

$50,840median pay, U.S., per year

$41,900–$61,450middle half earn

1,700employed in the U.S.

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A day in the work

A logging worker might spend the day felling trees using chainsaws, cutting logs to length, or operating equipment to move timber. Work involves clearing brush, assessing timber, and ensuring logs meet specifications. Tasks vary by season and employer—some workers focus on harvesting while others handle transport or processing. Most days involve physical labor in forested terrain.

Who this work suits

You tend to do well in this work if you're comfortable with physically demanding labor and working outdoors in variable weather. You're practical, safety-conscious, and capable of handling heavy equipment and tools with focus and attention to detail.

What it takes

Pay by state

State	25th pct	Median	75th pct	Employed
Louisiana	$43,930	$80,930	$80,930	30
Washington	$63,160	$67,650	$75,470	150
Oregon	$50,010	$57,890	$63,220	590
Michigan	$49,630	$54,140	$54,140	—
North Carolina	$40,960	$48,460	$73,070	—
California	$40,100	$47,490	$49,630	270
Virginia	$38,660	$42,910	$44,290	80
West Virginia	$41,300	$41,790	$73,210	—
Mississippi	$35,040	$37,370	$48,820	140
Georgia	$31,200	$34,870	$53,950	80

All 10 states

Louisiana · $80,930 Washington · $67,650 Oregon · $57,890 Michigan · $54,140 North Carolina · $48,460 California · $47,490 Virginia · $42,910 West Virginia · $41,790 Mississippi · $37,370 Georgia · $34,870

Training

Local training programs Certifications Licenses in your state Apprenticeships

Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.

Related occupations

Fallers Logging Equipment Operators Log Graders and Scalers Forest and Conservation Workers First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers Agricultural Inspectors Animal Breeders Graders and Sorters, Agricultural Products

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Four short assessments and your background, scored against logging workers, all other and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.

Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 45-4029.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.