How to become a logging and forestry labourer
Official title: Logging and forestry labourers
Also called: Logging labourer, Forestry labourer, Boom worker - logging, Cable hooker - logging, Choke setter - logging, Chokerman/woman - logging, Seasonal swamper - logging, Logging and forestry labourer, Sprayer - logging and forestry, Swamper - logging and forestry, Seasonal swamper - logging forestry, Log rider
Logging and forestry labourers perform a variety of manual tasks such as attaching choker cables to logs, planting trees, clearing brush, spraying chemicals, cleaning up landing areas and assisting other workers in woodlands operations. They are employed by logging companies and contractors.
Main tasks
- Assist other workers at logging sites
- Attach chokers or cables to felled trees for yarding
- Plant trees using manual tools
- Spray herbicides from the ground using manual spraying equipment
- Clear trails through woodlands using chain saws
- Clean up landing areas at logging sites
How to become one
Completion of secondary school may be required. Completion of pre-employment safety courses may be required. Several weeks of formal and on-the-job training are provided. Workplace hazardous materials information system (WHMIS) certificate may be required. Chemicals application licence may be required.
Ways in
- Licence or registration: Chemicals application licence may be required.
Pay · Outlook
- Median pay: $55,985 a year The middle half earn $42,900 to $70,200.
- About 2,300 people worked in this job in 2023, and about 2,500 are projected by 2033. (+8.7%)
- Projected labour market to 2033: balance.
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Questions people ask
How do I become a logging and forestry labourer?
Completion of secondary school may be required. Completion of pre-employment safety courses may be required. Several weeks of formal and on-the-job training are provided. Workplace hazardous materials information system (WHMIS) certificate may be required. Chemicals application licence may be required.
How much does a logging and forestry labourer earn in Canada?
Median full-time pay is $55,985 a year (Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank)). The middle half earn $42,900 to $70,200.
Is a logging and forestry labourer a growing career in Canada?
Yes. Employment is projected to grow 9% by 2033, from about 2,300 to about 2,500 people (Employment and Social Development Canada).
Do you need a degree to become a logging and forestry labourer?
Usually not. Only 17% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
Sources
- Statistics Canada: Census 2021: employment by occupation, gender and education (98-10-0449) (2021 Census), Statistics Canada Open Licence, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Statistics Canada: National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 (Version 1.0), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada: Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) (2024 to 2033), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank): Wages by occupation (2025 (revised 2025-11-19)), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
Updated 2026-10-03