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Sawyer

A Sawyer operates sawmill equipment to cut timber accurately, requiring technical skills, safety focus, teamwork, and the ability to follow procedures.

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.

Common questions

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.

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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

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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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Further reading

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Sawyer careers

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.