CHAINSAW OPERATOR (SAWMAN) – Taugau Mining Inc.

Key Responsibilities

• Fell only trees that have been inspected, selected, marked or otherwise authorized for removal.
• Assess each tree before cutting, taking into consideration its size, lean, condition, surrounding vegetation, wind direction, terrain and intended direction of fall.
• Identify overhead hazards, dead branches, vines, unstable trees, nearby structures, machinery and other potential dangers.
• Establish an appropriate exclusion zone and clear suitable escape routes before beginning tree-felling activities.
• Use approved directional-cutting techniques to control the intended direction of fall.
• De-limb, top and buck felled trees into specified lengths for movement, storage or further processing.
• Rip or mill logs into boards, planks, beams, posts, slabs and other materials according to measurements and specifications provided by the construction team.
• Mark and measure logs accurately before cutting to achieve the required dimensions.
• Produce timber suitable for construction, expansion, renovation, repair and maintenance projects.
• Work closely with Carpenters and Construction Supervisors to confirm the type, quantity and dimensions of materials required.
• Inspect logs for rot, cracks, excessive knots, embedded objects and other defects that may affect their safe use or structural suitability.
• Identify the safest cutting sequence by assessing tension and compression within logs and branches.
• Use wedges, guides, chainsaw mills or other approved accessories to improve cutting control and accuracy.
• Maximize timber recovery by planning cuts carefully and minimizing unnecessary waste.
• Separate usable timber, offcuts, firewood and waste material in accordance with instructions.
• Assist with the safe stacking and storage of processed timber to prevent deterioration, obstruction or uncontrolled movement.
• Coordinate with Equipment Operators and General Helpers when logs or timber must be lifted, moved or transported.
• Maintain continuous awareness of personnel, machinery and other activities within the work area.
• Ensure that no unauthorized person enters the cutting or milling zone.
• Suspend work where wind, lightning, heavy rainfall, poor visibility, unstable ground or other conditions make cutting unsafe.
• Inspect chainsaws before and after use, including chains, guide bars, chain brakes, guards, handles, controls, anti-vibration components and fuel systems.
• Sharpen, tension and lubricate chains and perform routine maintenance within the limits of the operator’s training and authorization.
• Select the appropriate chain, guide bar and chainsaw capacity for the assigned work.
• Remove damaged or defective equipment from service and report faults immediately.
• Refuel and lubricate chainsaws only in approved areas using authorized containers and spill-prevention procedures.
• Keep fuel, lubricants and ignition sources properly controlled and stored.
• Clean and securely store chainsaws, cutting accessories, fuel containers and maintenance tools after use.
• Maintain a clean worksite and ensure that branches, offcuts, sawdust and other materials do not create fire, access, drainage or tripping hazards.
• Protect waterways, environmentally sensitive areas and vegetation outside approved clearing boundaries.
• Immediately report injuries, near misses, equipment damage, fuel spills, hung-up trees and unsafe conditions.
• Participate in toolbox meetings, job-hazard analyses, safety training and emergency-response exercises.
• Perform other related duties consistent with the position.

Requirements

• Primary or secondary education with sufficient literacy and numeracy to understand safety instructions, measurements and material specifications.
• Recognized training or certification in chainsaw operation and tree felling is strongly preferred.
• Training in advanced tree felling, chainsaw milling, timber conversion or forestry operations would be an asset.
• Training in first aid, occupational safety, fire prevention or emergency response is desirable.
• A minimum of three to five years’ practical experience operating power-operated chainsaws.
• Demonstrated experience in tree felling, de-limbing, bucking and ripping or milling logs into boards and other construction materials.
• Experience producing timber to specified measurements and quality standards.
• Experience working with dense hardwoods and large-diameter trees is preferred.
• Previous experience in mining, forestry, logging, sawmilling, land clearing or remote construction operations would be an asset.
• Experience working safely around heavy equipment and construction crews is desirable.

How to Apply