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What is a saw operator and how to become one
Saw operators operate routine production machinery in line with the prints and specifications provided. They perform routine activities that produce the needed quantity of parts as stated in the specifications. They measure finished parts with precision tools to ensure adherence to function, quality, and established specifications. Besides that, they maintain logs and records of units produced. Likewise, they report any errors resulting in discarded pieces. Additionally, they check equipment before using it to ensure proper setup and alignment. Also, they perform basic and routine adjustments and maintenance.
Employers seek applicants with a high school diploma or its equivalent and up to two years of relevant work experience. You must be able to interpret and translate job specifications. You must possess multitasking, teamwork, attention to detail, communication, and coordination skills. Also, you must be comfortable with following directions. Saw operators earn an average salary of $33,741 annually. This varies from $26,000 to $44,000.
Avg. Salary $32,319
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 3%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.75%
Asian 1.06%
Black or African American 11.09%
Hispanic or Latino 17.04%
Unknown 4.71%
White 65.35%
Genderfemale 9.75%
male 90.25%
Age - 45American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 45Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is fair
6.4 - fair
Saw operator career paths
Key steps to become a saw operator
Explore saw operator education requirements
Start to develop specific saw operator skills
Skills Percentages Tape Measure 14.86% Hand Tools 9.70% Basic Math 8.50% Math 7.81% Aluminum 7.04% Complete relevant saw operator training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New saw operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a saw operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real saw operator resumes.Gain additional saw operator certifications
More About CertificationsSaw operator certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific saw operator certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.
The most common certifications for saw operators include OSHA Safety Certificate and EPA Amusement Operators Safety Certification (EPA).
Research saw operator duties and responsibilities
- Use automate systems and RF units to pull, put away and load customer product, in addition to managing inventory
- Used spread sheets, calipers, micrometers, and other gauges to ensure proper sizes and quality of finish products.
- Utilize precision measuring instruments such as calipers and micrometers.
- Use various size micrometers, calibers, and gauges accurately.
Prepare your saw operator resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your saw operator resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a saw operator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable saw operator resume templates
Build a professional saw operator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your saw operator resume.
Apply for saw operator jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a saw operator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first saw operator job
Are you a saw operator?
Share your story for a free salary report.
Average saw operator salary
The average saw operator salary in the United States is $32,319 per year or $16 per hour. Saw operator salaries range between $26,000 and $38,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do saw operators rate their job?
Saw operator reviews
I've been a chainsaw operator for about 3 and a half years now. I love it, it gives me a chance to be outside and around nature. I enjoy the people I work with, it is like a brotherhood. There are other tasks that you will help out with such as logistics and skidding, however the majority of the time you will be the one cutting wood and falling trees. It certainly helps a great deal if you can work well in a team, have thick skin and good social skills.
Long hours standing. Back brace recommended, there will be heavy lifting. Some rude people, just like any other job. This line of work tends to attract a-type personalities and abrasive individuals however. Almost guarenteed to have some conflict between you and your co-workers in the beginning of your career. Nothing you can't take in stride and get past.
Writing
Short time at work that to day U not working we will call you when we have busy I need a full time job not part time
It challenging I love challenge to work as a operator it a very challenging job
Updated January 8, 2025
