The job includes training workers on tasks like tree felling or running tractors and loaders, coordinating with forestry or farm management on harvesting plans, and moving crews and equipment between sites as work demands. Because the crew works outdoors around chainsaws, vehicles, and other hazardous equipment, protective gear is standard and safety enforcement is a constant part of the supervisor's job rather than an occasional check-in. Most supervisors are promoted up from the crews they now lead, bringing hands-on field experience into a role reachable through vocational training or an associate's degree.
Pros
Outdoor, hands-on leadership role directing crews rather than a desk job
Vocational training or associate's degree opens the path, no bachelor's required
Faster than average projected job growth (2.5%) with top pay approaching $92k
Cons
Above-average hours, more than a standard 40-hour work week
Full exposure to outdoor weather and hazardous equipment like tractors and loading machines
Coordinating multiple remote work sites and equipment moves adds logistical complexity
A typical day
The crew boss has the day's picking map ready at 5:45 — which blocks, which bins, and a frost delay pushing start time back an hour. Once the crew is in the rows, the morning is quality and pace: checking picked fruit against grade standards, coaching a new worker's technique, and keeping the tractor shuttle moving so nobody waits on bins. Midday brings a safety stop when the wind picks up near the sprayer rig — the boss shuts the operation down without hesitation because the reentry rules exist for a reason. The afternoon closes with tallies by worker, equipment checks, and a call with the grower about tomorrow, weather permitting; it always ends with weather.
Tasks at the job
Monitor workers to ensure that safety regulations are followed, warning or disciplining those who violate safety regulations.
Train workers in tree felling or bucking, operation of tractors or loading machines, yarding or loading techniques, or safety regulations.
Coordinate dismantling, moving, and setting up equipment at new work sites.
Coordinate the selection and movement of logs from storage areas, according to transportation schedules or production requirements.
Communicate with forestry personnel regarding forest harvesting or forest management plans, procedures, or schedules.
Schedule work crews, equipment, or transportation for several different work locations.
Workplace & working conditions
Work happens primarily outdoors, exposed to whatever the weather is doing. The role involves regular exposure to hazardous equipment or conditions and contaminants, and standard protective equipment (gloves, safety glasses, and similar) is expected.
There's a regular, moderate amount of time pressure, and you're expected to exercise significant independent judgment day to day.
Education necessary or common
Vocational training, apprenticeship, or associate's degree
Licenses & certifications
Pesticide applicator license (often required for supervisors)