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A Woodchipper produces woodchip and woodchip products at a sawmilling operation. You might prepare timber for chipping and operate a range of machinery. Woodchippers might check the quality of timber and ensure equipment is working effectively. You might move woodchip into loading areas or get it ready for transport.
Woodchippers should be safety focused and able to operate a range of sawmilling equipment. You should be able to work as part of a team and communicate clearly with colleagues. Woodchippers should be physically fit and capable of various manual labour duties. You’ll need to be able to follow instructions and work to correct procedures.
In Australia, a full time Woodchipper 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.
There has been a decrease in employment numbers in this industry over the last five years. There are currently 1,400 people working in this field in Australia and many of them specialise as a Woodchipper. Woodchippers may find work in regions of Australia where timber processing facilities are located.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If you’re interested in working as a Woodchipper, consider enrolling in a Certificate III in Sawmilling and Processing. This course allows you to specialise in an area relevant to your career plans including 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 Woodchipper courses in your area.