Felling Operations
Felling Operations refers to the process of cutting down trees in a planned and safe manner as part of logging or forestry work. It's a fundamental part of the timber industry where workers use various tools and equipment to harvest trees. This can include using chainsaws for smaller operations or large mechanical harvesters for bigger projects. Think of it as the first step in turning standing trees into usable lumber. Similar terms you might see include "timber harvesting," "tree cutting," or "logging operations."
Examples in Resumes
Supervised Felling Operations for 50-acre commercial forest harvest
Led safety training for Tree Felling crews of up to 12 workers
Operated mechanical harvesters during Timber Felling projects
Managed Logging Operations and Felling Operations in environmentally sensitive areas
Typical job title: "Felling Operators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Felling Operators
Industry Associations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you plan a large-scale felling operation while considering environmental impact?
Expected Answer: A senior operator should discuss creating harvest plans, understanding environmental regulations, protecting water sources, wildlife considerations, and managing multiple crews efficiently.
Q: What safety protocols would you implement for a felling operation?
Expected Answer: Should explain comprehensive safety procedures including daily equipment checks, communication systems, emergency response plans, and weather monitoring protocols.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when deciding the direction to fell a tree?
Expected Answer: Should discuss wind direction, tree lean, terrain slope, obstacle avoidance, and escape routes for workers.
Q: How do you maintain and troubleshoot felling equipment?
Expected Answer: Should describe regular maintenance schedules, basic repairs, identifying common problems, and when to call for professional maintenance.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic safety gear requirements for felling operations?
Expected Answer: Should list essential safety equipment like hard hats, steel-toed boots, eye protection, ear protection, and high-visibility clothing.
Q: Describe the basic steps of felling a tree safely.
Expected Answer: Should explain checking surroundings, planning escape routes, making proper cuts (face cut and back cut), and maintaining safe distances.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic chainsaw operation and maintenance
- Understanding of safety protocols
- Basic tree felling techniques
- Equipment inspection procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced cutting techniques
- Mechanical harvester operation
- Team coordination
- Environmental regulation compliance
Senior (5+ years)
- Operations planning and management
- Crew supervision
- Complex terrain operation
- Environmental impact assessment
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of safety certification or training
- No experience with required equipment
- Poor understanding of environmental regulations
- History of safety violations
- Unable to explain basic felling techniques
