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A Sawyer operates sawmill equipment at a timber processing facility. You might cut timber to order or prepare products for mass sale. Sawyers use a range of sawing equipment depending on the product being made. You might make precise measurement and adjust sawing functions accordingly.
Sawyers should be safety focused and have strong technical abilities. It’s important that you can work to correct procedures at all times and make accurate cuts and measurements. Sawyers must be able to work as part of a team and communicate effectively in the workplace.
There is one course available for people who want to become a Sawyer.
Possible job outcomes:
The Certificate III in Sawmilling and Processing (FWP30316) is a nationally recognised qualification for anyone wanting to get started at a sawmill or timber processing plant. During 12-18 months of hands-on training you will learn how to work safely in the Australian forest industries, as well as the essentials of quality and product control, materials assessment, and machine operation. Choose electives to gain speciality skills: logyard and materials preparation, sawing and operations, grading and testing, timber products, timber drying and treatments, sawdoctoring, woodchipping. Enquire now for the full list of specialisation units and upcoming enrolment dates..
Average duration: 12 months.
In Australia, a full time Sawyer generally earns $960 per week ($49,920 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
The number of people working in this industry has decreased over the last five years. There are currently 1,400 people employed in this field in Australia and many of them specialise as a Sawyer. Sawyers may find work in regions of Australia where timber processing facilities are located.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
A Certificate III in Sawmilling and Processing is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Sawyer. This course covers topics including machine operation, quality control and materials assessment. You’ll be able to specialise in an area relevant to your career plans such as log yard and materials preparation, sawing and operations, grading and testing, timber drying and treatments, sawdoctoring and woodchipping.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within timber and wood processing. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Timber and Wood Processing
Paper Mill Worker
$960 weekly pay
Sawyer
Timber Dispatch Coordinator
Timber Salesperson
Timber Yard Worker
Woodchipper
Paper Mill Operator
$1,250 weekly pay
Production Supervisor (Timber Systems)
$1,150 weekly pay
Saw Doctor
Saw Technician
Timber Systems Designer
$1,340 weekly pay
Wood Processing Machine Operator
Learn more about Sawyer courses in your area.