What are the responsibilities and job description for the Feller Buncher Operator position at Graf Brothers Flooring, Inc.?
Feller Buncher Operator
Job Summary:
Graf Brothers Flooring, Inc. is in seeking an experienced Feller Buncher Operator. A Feller Buncher Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating the Feller Buncher (and possibly other heavy machinery in our forestry operations) by cutting down trees and preparing them for transportation and processing. The machine itself is equipped with a powerful hydraulic arm and a cutting head, allowing the operator to quickly fell (cut down) trees, strip branches, and bunch them together for easy retrieval by other equipment like skidders or loaders. The Feller Buncher Operator must ensure proper load handling, maintain the equipment, and adhere to all state and federal safety and environmental guidelines. This job involves working in forested areas and therefore requires a combination of understanding the terrain, technical skill and safety awareness.
This position is a full-time position in various forests throughout the Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia areas, and therefore must be willing to travel. The basic operating hours of the position are Monday through Friday 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM but are subject to change at any time.
Essential Responsibilities:
- Tree Felling:
o Operate a feller buncher to cut down trees safely and efficiently.
o Use the machine's hydraulic arm to grasp and sever trees at their base.
o Safely ensure that trees are felled in the correct direction away from other crew members and to minimize damage to other trees or equipment.
- Tree Bunching:
o Gather and pile felled trees (bunching) for later transport.
o Ensure that the bunches are properly formed to make it easier for skidders or other vehicles to transport them.
- Preform Basic Maintenance:
o Regularly inspect equipment for wear and tear, and perform basic maintenance, such as checking fluids, tires, cables, and hydraulic systems.
o Conduct pre- and post-operational inspections to ensure the equipment is in safe working condition.
- Ability to troubleshoot minor issues with the machinery and perform basic maintenance.
o Report any major mechanical issues to the Crew Leader, Equipment Manager and Maintenance Team.
- Follow Safety Protocols:
o Adhere to all state and federal safety and environmental guidelines, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like helmets, gloves, and safety boots.
o Maintain awareness of surrounding equipment and personnel to prevent accidents and injuries.
o Follow all safety protocols to minimize the risk of accidents and ensure the safety of oneself and other team members.
o Ensure proper signaling and communication with other crew members during operations.
- Environmental and Compliance Adherence:
o Operate the Feller Buncher in a manner that minimizes environmental impact, including avoiding damage to trees and the soil.
o Follow local, state, and federal guidelines regarding forestry, logging, land use, and Best Management Practice.
- Record Keeping:
o Keep accurate logs of hours worked, equipment usage, and maintenance performed.
o Maintain records related to equipment inspections and any incidents or accidents.
- Collaboration and Communication:
o Work closely with logging crews, truck drivers, and other forestry workers to ensure timely and efficient operations.
o Report any hazards, inefficiencies, or safety concerns to Crew Leader.
- Efficiency:
o Operate the Feller Buncher in an efficient manner to meet daily production goals.
o Maintain high productivity without compromising safety or quality of work.
o Ensure that the felled trees are processed and bunched according to the specifications set by the Crew Leader.
- Environmental Awareness:
o Be aware of environmental considerations, such as avoiding damage to surrounding trees, wildlife, or soil.
o Work in compliance with environmental regulations and sustainable forestry practices.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Experience:
- Proven experience operating a Feller Buncher or similar heavy machinery in a forestry or logging environment.
- Knowledge of forestry operations and equipment is highly beneficial.
- Skills:
- Strong mechanical skills for basic maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Ability to work in challenging, outdoor environments, sometimes in extreme weather or remote locations.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work in a team-oriented setting.
- Certifications (preferred):
- Certification in heavy equipment operation or forestry
- First Aid and CPR certification.
- Physical Requirements:
- Ability to work in physically demanding conditions.
- Capable of lifting heavy objects and performing manual labor when necessary.
- Comfortable with heights and working in all weather conditions.
Education and Experience:
- High school diploma or equivalent (preferred)
- Experience in forestry or logging operations required
- Certification or training related to heavy equipment operation can be beneficial.
Work Environment:
- The position involves outdoor work in forestry settings, often in remote locations.
- Conditions may be rough, with uneven terrain, inclement weather, and long working hours, particularly during busy seasons.
- Shift work and overtime may be required depending on operational needs.
Salary and Benefits:
- Salary: The salary for a Feller Buncher Operator can vary widely depending on experience, location, and the specific employer, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $75,000 annually.
- Benefits:
- Medical, Vision, Dental Insurance (after 60 days)
- Paid vacation
- Paid holidays
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Life Insurance
- And potentially housing or travel allowances for remote work sites
Career Path
A Feller Bunch Operator can advance to supervisory roles (e.g., Crew Leader, Equipment Manager), or transition into other heavy equipment operation roles. Continuing education and certifications can open additional career opportunities within forestry and heavy equipment operation fields.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
We are an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants shall be considered for all positions without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law. We are also a Drug Free Work Place. Qualified applicants will also be required to pass a drug screening before receiving an offer or beginning employment. Refusal to submit to testing will result in disqualification of further employment consideration.
Salary : $50,000 - $75,000
