The job market for logging workers in the United States

There are currently an estimated 7,500 logging workers in the United States. The logging worker job market is expected to shrink by -16.0% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are logging workers?

CareerExplorer rates logging workers with a F employability rating, meaning this career should provide poor employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 7,900 logging workers. That number is based on the retirement of 9,100 existing logging workers.

Are logging workers in demand?

Several factors are negatively affecting the demand and job outlook for logging workers. Opportunities in the field are consistently impacted by changes in the economy and resulting changes in the level of construction, particularly in the residential sector. In addition, timber producers continue to face competition from foreign suppliers. In an attempt to combat this and reduce costs, domestic logging companies are consolidating their operations and downsizing their combined workforces. Efforts to conserve federal forest lands may increasingly yield government policies that further limit the logging industry’s ability to cultivate raw forest material. This may be somewhat mitigated by legislation allowing the thinning of forests that are susceptible to wildfires. Ongoing mechanization, reducing manual labor needs and increasing productivity, will remain a potential foe of overall employment growth in the field. During prolonged logging downturns and periods of inactivity, some qualified workers may be retained to perform repairs and maintenance on machinery and equipment. Because logging operations move when timber in a particular area has been harvested, workers must often be prepared to relocate to keep their jobs. For the foreseeable future, openings will occur solely from the need to replace retirees and younger workers who leave the occupation because they are not committed to it on a long-term basis. Employment of logging workers is not predicted to experience any net growth. Depending on their experience level, loggers may advance to positions as specialized equipment operators or logging crew supervisors.

What’s the supply of logging workers?

Logging Worker job market by state