Sawyer Courses
A Sawyer operates sawmill equipment to cut timber accurately, requiring technical skills, safety focus, teamwork, and the ability to follow procedures.
AI Exposure
Low
Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Sawyer
Get qualified to work as a Sawyer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
FWP30316
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 testi...
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FWP30322
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Blended, Online, Traineeship
The FWP30322 Certificate III in Timber and Wood Products Operations equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed for production roles in timber or wood product facilities. Graduates will perform tasks such as maintaining performance, problem-solving, and ensuring compliance with health, safety, quality, and environmental standards. They will also acquire technical skills in equipment operation, process monitoring, product testing, and grading, with a comprehensive understanding of production pr...
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Blended, Online, Traineeship
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FWP31121
Get a job at a sawmill or timber processing plant with the FWP31121 Certificate III in Wood Machining. This nationally recognised qualification introduces you to forest and wood products and will develop your knowledge of timber properties, sawmilling operations, and equipment. Competencies include: using hand-held tools, producing patterns and templates, applying quality procedures and product care, using and maintaining cutting tools. Enquire now for the latest course openings as well as the list of stu...
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FWP30920
Study mode
Online, RPL, Traineeship
The FWP30920 Certificate III in Timber Frame or Truss Manufacture prepares individuals for roles as fabricators or manufacturers of timber wall frames or roof and floor trusses. Graduates will learn to communicate and work in teams, safely use specialist equipment to cut timber, and assemble frames and trusses. They will apply a broad range of skills and knowledge in varied contexts, solve routine problems, and take responsibility for their own outputs in the workplace.
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Online, RPL, Traineeship
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Common questions
How much does a Sawyer earn?
In Australia, a full time Sawyer generally earns $1,400 per week ($72,800 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.
What are the job opportunities for a Sawyer?
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
How do I become a Sawyer?
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.
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More information
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.
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