Operations - Work Wild

Crane Operator

There’s heavy machinery and then there’s the machinery that moves it. This is the kind of powerful equipment that you’re the master of. As a Crane Operator, you operate the hoist and swing equipment used to move large objects like logs. You have the talent to manipulate multiple pedals and levers simultaneously to manoeuvre sophisticated equipment.

What you need

Either a registered apprenticeship, journeyperson certification or recognized trade certificate.

Where

Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training.

Salary Range

Average: $31.15 to $41.61 an hour.

Harvesting Operator

Your job is like a massive, real-life video game. You’ve acquired the hand-eye coordination needed to operate your increasingly sophisticated equipment. As a Harvesting Operator, you are the controller of massive machinery and timber is at the mercy of your levers and pedals. You have the skill and concentration to mechanically establish, develop and harvest forests. Your physical strength and stamina enables you to endure your strenuous yet rewarding job. You flex your brain as much as your muscles in order to meet your biodiversity objectives, such as habitat creation and disturbance reduction.

What you need

No formal education required.

Where

Training available at Northern Lakes College, Olds College and Woodland Operations Learning Foundation.

Salary Range

$24.19 to $29.91 an hour.

Mill Manager

You’re a leader, a coordinator, a director—you’re a manager, responsible for leading your organization to victory. As a Mill Manager, you oversee all operations and personnel in the plant from the tree coming in to the product going out. You are responsible for mill efficiency but you operate as part of a team that you motivate to strive for the same goal.

What you need

No standard educational requirement but a related degree or diploma in business and engineering is recommended.

Where

Athabasca University, Grande Prairie Regional College, Lethbridge College, Medicine Hat College, Mount Royal University, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), Red Deer College, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), University of Alberta, University of Calgary, University of Lethbridge.

Salary Range

$36.68 to $55.87 an hour.

Pilot

You’re the ace of the aircraft that travels to places that only few will. As a Pilot in the forest industry, you’re responsible for bringing people to remote areas so they’re able to perform their jobs. You are vital to the industry because you often make seemingly inaccessible forests accessible with your aviation skill.

What you need

Pilot’s Licence.

Where

Aviation schools are available throughout the province.

Salary Range

$19.25 to $45.90 an hour.

Production Labourer

You’re a smart worker who decided to start in an entry-level position so you’re able quickly move up in the industry. As Production Technician in Forestry, you work hard to ensure production runs smoothly from the bottom up. You’re strong, physically hardy, and enjoy working with your hands. This is the start of your long career in a sustainable industry.

Where

No formal education required.

Salary Range

$20.38 to $26.21 an hour.

Truck Driver

It’s just you and the open road…and a truck full of materials. You enjoy driving and are methodical in your approach. As a Truck Driver in forestry, you operate gasoline or diesel powered logging trucks to transport goods and materials over local routes or long distances. You often work long hours but you don’t mind because you’re always surrounded by beautiful Canadian scenery.

What you need

Class 1 Licence and satisfy pertinent medical requirements.

Where

Truck driving schools are available throughout Alberta.

Salary Range

$23.76 - $32.95 an hour.