Chainsaw Operator (Sawman)

The Chainsaw Operator is responsible for the safe and skilled operation of power-operated chainsaws to fell designated trees and convert the timber into usable construction materials. This includes assessing and directing tree falls, de-limbing, bucking logs into specified lengths and ripping or milling logs into boards, posts, beams and other materials required by the construction team.

The position supports the expansion, renovation, construction and maintenance of camp buildings and related infrastructure. The Chainsaw Operator must work from approved measurements and specifications, maximize the recovery of usable timber and maintain strict compliance with safety, environmental and equipment-operating requirements.

• Primary or secondary education with sufficient literacy and numeracy to understand safety instructions, measurements and material specifications.

• Recognized training or certification in chainsaw operation and tree felling is strongly preferred.

• Training in advanced tree felling, chainsaw milling, timber conversion or forestry operations would be an asset.

• Training in first aid, occupational safety, fire prevention or emergency response is desirable.

• A minimum of three to five years’ practical experience operating power-operated chainsaws.

• Demonstrated experience in tree felling, de-limbing, bucking and ripping or milling logs into boards and other construction materials.

• Experience producing timber to specified measurements and quality standards.

• Experience working with dense hardwoods and large-diameter trees is preferred.

• Previous experience in mining, forestry, logging, sawmilling, land clearing or remote construction operations would be an asset.

• Experience working safely around heavy equipment and construction crews is desirable.

• Fell only trees that have been inspected, selected, marked or otherwise authorized for removal.

• Assess each tree before cutting, taking into consideration its size, lean, condition, surrounding vegetation, wind direction, terrain and intended direction of fall.

• Identify overhead hazards, dead branches, vines, unstable trees, nearby structures, machinery and other potential dangers.

• Establish an appropriate exclusion zone and clear suitable escape routes before beginning tree-felling activities.

• Use approved directional-cutting techniques to control the intended direction of fall.

• De-limb, top and buck felled trees into specified lengths for movement, storage or further processing.

• Rip or mill logs into boards, planks, beams, posts, slabs and other materials according to measurements and specifications provided by the construction team.

• Mark and measure logs accurately before cutting to achieve the required dimensions.

• Produce timber suitable for construction, expansion, renovation, repair and maintenance projects.

• Work closely with Carpenters and Construction Supervisors to confirm the type, quantity and dimensions of materials required.

• Inspect logs for rot, cracks, excessive knots, embedded objects and other defects that may affect their safe use or structural suitability.

• Identify the safest cutting sequence by assessing tension and compression within logs and branches.

• Use wedges, guides, chainsaw mills or other approved accessories to improve cutting control and accuracy.

• Maximize timber recovery by planning cuts carefully and minimizing unnecessary waste.

• Separate usable timber, offcuts, firewood and waste material in accordance with instructions.

• Assist with the safe stacking and storage of processed timber to prevent deterioration, obstruction or uncontrolled movement.

• Coordinate with Equipment Operators and General Helpers when logs or timber must be lifted, moved or transported.

• Maintain continuous awareness of personnel, machinery and other activities within the work area.

• Ensure that no unauthorized person enters the cutting or milling zone.

• Suspend work where wind, lightning, heavy rainfall, poor visibility, unstable ground or other conditions make cutting unsafe.

• Inspect chainsaws before and after use, including chains, guide bars, chain brakes, guards, handles, controls, anti-vibration components and fuel systems.

• Sharpen, tension and lubricate chains and perform routine maintenance within the limits of the operator’s training and authorization.

• Select the appropriate chain, guide bar and chainsaw capacity for the assigned work.

• Remove damaged or defective equipment from service and report faults immediately.

• Refuel and lubricate chainsaws only in approved areas using authorized containers and spill-prevention procedures.

• Keep fuel, lubricants and ignition sources properly controlled and stored.

• Clean and securely store chainsaws, cutting accessories, fuel containers and maintenance tools after use.

• Maintain a clean worksite and ensure that branches, offcuts, sawdust and other materials do not create fire, access, drainage or tripping hazards.

• Protect waterways, environmentally sensitive areas and vegetation outside approved clearing boundaries.

• Immediately report injuries, near misses, equipment damage, fuel spills, hung-up trees and unsafe conditions.

• Participate in toolbox meetings, job-hazard analyses, safety training and emergency-response exercises.

• Perform other related duties consistent with the position.