Log Graders and Scalers
What is a Log Graders and Scalers?
Log Graders and Scalers are specialized professionals who assess and measure timber logs to determine their quality, size, and value. They play a crucial role in the lumber industry by evaluating logs harvested from forests to ensure they meet specific standards for processing into lumber and other wood products. These professionals employ various tools and techniques to measure the log's diameter, length, and volume, and to identify any defects or characteristics that might affect the wood's usability. Their evaluations help in setting prices for logs and in managing the sustainable use of timber resources. Log Graders and Scalers often work closely with foresters, sawmill operators, and procurement teams, contributing to the efficient operation of the timber supply chain. Their expertise is essential for maximizing the economic value of timber while promoting responsible forest management practices.
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.
Technology Skills
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Data base user interface and query software
- AS/400 Database
- Microsoft Access
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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Electronic mail software
- Microsoft Outlook
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Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- SAP software
Tools Used
- Measuring tapes
- Hard hats
- Truck or rail scales
- Infrared imagers
- Calipers
Knowledge
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Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
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Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Skills
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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.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
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Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Abilities
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Category Flexibility
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Some college, no degree
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Less than high school diploma
Work Activities
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Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
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Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
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Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
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Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Detailed Work Activities
- Evaluate log quality.
- Record agricultural or forestry inventory data.
- Measure physical characteristics of forestry or agricultural products.
- Mark agricultural or forestry products for identification.
- Direct material handling or moving activities.
Work Interests
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$33060.0 - $62360.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.