SOC 45-4023
Log Graders and Scalers
Risk Score
โ ๏ธ69/100
High Risk
US Employment
๐ฅ3,310
Total workers
Median Wage
๐ฐ$47K
$35K โ $63K
Projected Growth
๐-0.7%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
๐ค67/100
High exposure
๐ก Log Graders and Scalers face a risk score of 69/100 โ 25 points above the national average of 44. With 67/100 GenAI exposure, this occupation faces significant pressure from AI tools despite weak projected growth. See our methodology โ
๐ก Workers in this field earn $47K ($400 above the national median). The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths โ
๐ AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 69/100, Log Graders and Scalers faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like autonomous harvesting and planting machinery are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 3,310 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in adapting to variable weather and terrain conditions and managing livestock behavior and welfare to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Log Graders and Scalers?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths โ
โ ๏ธ Top Risk Factors
Autonomous harvesting and planting machinery
Drone crop monitoring and precision spraying
Generative AI producing marketing and creative copy
Robotic sorting and packing of produce
๐ก๏ธ Tasks Safe from Automation
Adapting to variable weather and terrain conditions
Managing livestock behavior and welfare
Operating in unstructured and remote environments
๐ Task Automation Breakdown
Based on O*NET task analysis and GenAI exposure scoring. Shows the estimated proportion of this occupation's core tasks that are automatable by current AI, augmented by AI tools, or require essential human skills.
๐ O*NET Task Profile
Evaluate log characteristics and determine grades, using established criteria.
Record data about individual trees or load volumes into tally books or hand-held collection terminals.
Measure felled logs or loads of pulpwood to calculate volume, weight, dimensions, and marketable value, using measuring devices and conversion tables.
Paint identification marks of specified colors on logs to identify grades or species, using spray cans, or call out grades to log markers.
Jab logs with metal ends of scale sticks, and inspect logs to ascertain characteristics or defects such as water damage, splits, knots, broken ends, rotten areas, twists, and curves.
๐ป Technology Skills
Data base user interface and query software
Inventory management software
Customer relationship management CRM software
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Spreadsheet software
๐ Key Knowledge Areas
Production and Processing
Mathematics
Customer and Personal Service
Administration and Management
Mechanical
๐ vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
๐ Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Scientists and Related Workers | 21 | $93K | 61% |
| Political Scientists | 25 | $139K | 53% |
| Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Technicians | 26 | $79K | 51% |