Log Grader / Scaler

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.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Log Buyer; Log Check Scaler; Log Grader; Log Scaler; Lumber Grader; Scaler; Timber Buyer

Tasks

• Evaluate log characteristics and determine grades, using established criteria.
• Record data about individual trees or load volumes into tally books or hand-held collection terminals.
• Measure felled logs or loads of pulpwood to calculate volume, weight, dimensions, and marketable value, using measuring devices and conversion tables.
• Paint identification marks of specified colors on logs to identify grades or species, using spray cans, or call out grades to log markers.
• 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.
• Identify logs of substandard or special grade so that they can be returned to shippers, regraded, recut, or transferred for other processing.

Knowledge

• Production and Processing
• Mathematics
• Customer and Personal Service
• Administration and Management

Skills

• Active Listening
• Critical Thinking
• Speaking
• Writing
• Active Learning
• Monitoring

Abilities

• Near Vision
• Problem Sensitivity
• Oral Comprehension
• Oral Expression
• Deductive Reasoning
• Inductive Reasoning
• Category Flexibility
• Written Expression
• Flexibility of Closure
• Perceptual Speed
• Far Vision
• Written Comprehension
• Information Ordering
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Number Facility
• Selective Attention
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Manual Dexterity
• Finger Dexterity
• Control Precision
• Visual Color Discrimination
• Speech Recognition
• Speech Clarity