Fallers
Logging workers harvest trees to provide the raw material for many consumer goods and industrial products.
Is fallers a good career?
It scores 9/100 and ranks #729 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- No college degree typically required to enter
Possible tradeoffs
- Pays below the U.S. median wage ($52,100 vs $61,390)
- Employment is projected to decline (-7.3% through 2034)
What fallers earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. fallers earn between $41,360 and $63,390 a year.
Best-paying states
Strongest employment concentration
Live fallers jobs
No live fallers openings yet
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- Typical education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- Moderate-term on-the-job training
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow decline through 2034.
Education
Education requirements for logging workers vary. Some jobs do not require a formal educational credential, while others require a high school diploma or the equivalent.
Some vocational or technical schools and community colleges offer associate’s degrees or certificates related to logging or forest technology. Programs may include technical instruction and field sessions to observe logging activities or provide opportunities for students to gain experience operating logging equipment.
Training
Most logging workers learn their skills through on-the-job training. The length of training varies but may last up to a year.
Training typically covers topics such as safety, familiarization with logging practices, and training on logging machinery. Some sessions take place in the field, where trainees have the opportunity to practice various logging techniques and use particular equipment.
Training providers include state agencies, trade associations, and employers.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Some states require licensure or certification for certain logging workers. Requirements vary by state.
In addition, logging companies and trade associations offer training for workers who operate large machinery and equipment. This training often culminates in a state-recognized safety certification from the logging company.
Important qualities
Communication skills. Logging workers must coordinate with other crew members so that they can harvest trees efficiently and safely.
Decision-making skills. Logging workers must be able to make judgment calls, sometimes quickly, especially when hazards arise.
Detail oriented. Logging workers must closely monitor tree conditions and follow instructions to safely harvest lumber.
Physical stamina. Logging workers need to be able to perform laborious tasks repeatedly.
Physical strength. Logging workers must be able to handle heavy equipment.
Related occupations
How much do fallers make?
The national median wage is $52,100 a year, with the middle half earning between $41,360 and $63,390 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is fallers a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 9 of 100 and ranks #729 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change -7.3% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a faller?
The typical entry-level education is high school diploma or equivalent.
Where do fallers earn the most?
Among states, Oregon pays the highest median ($84,490). Local pay for every state and metro is below.