Skilled Trades

Saw Technician

SOC 49-9094.00 · ESCO 7222 · OSCA 332336

Role snapshot

Overview

A Saw Technician is a skilled tradesperson responsible for the maintenance, sharpening, setting, and repair of saw blades used in sawmills and timber processing facilities. This role involves meticulous precision work to adjust blade tension, align teeth, and ensure blades cut efficiently and safely through various timber types, directly impacting production quality and operational safety.

Ensures the efficiency and safety of timber processing operations by maintaining high-quality saw blades, reducing downtime, and extending the lifespan of valuable equipment.

On the job

Sharpening and re-tipping saw blades using specialized grinding equipment and techniques
Setting and swaging saw teeth to achieve precise cutting angles and kerf
Tensioning saw blades to ensure proper alignment and stability during operation
Inspecting blades for defects, cracks, or damage and performing necessary repairs, including welding
Maintaining and calibrating saw filing machinery and related tools

Tools & technology

Automatic saw grindersTensioning machinesSwaging and shaping toolsMicrometers and gaugesWelding equipment (TIG, MIG)Hand files and abrasivesBand saw setting machines

Average salary

$60K

MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD

$45K Bottom 10%

$78K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Vocational certificate or apprenticeship in industrial maintenance, machining, or saw filing technology.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Lead Saw Technician

Maintenance Supervisor

CURRENT ROLE

Saw Technician

Skilled Trades

ADJACENT MOVES

Machinist

Industrial Maintenance Apprentice

Machinist Apprentice

Production Worker

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

realistic · RCI

Individuals who enjoy hands-on mechanical tasks, require precision and attention to detail, and are motivated by practical problem-solving in a structured environment often excel in this role.

Personality characteristics

Conscientious

Approaches tasks with a high degree of precision, attention to detail, and dedication to quality in all repairs and maintenance.

Practical

Prefers concrete, hands-on tasks and established methods over abstract theories or highly innovative approaches.

Independent

Comfortable working autonomously on specialized tasks, focusing on the work at hand rather than constant social interaction.

Steady

Maintains composure and effectiveness in a workshop environment, handling pressure or unexpected issues calmly.

Methodical

Enjoys following systematic procedures and applying logical thinking to diagnose and resolve mechanical problems.

Best for

Individuals who enjoy working with their hands, mastering specialized equipment, and ensuring operational excellence
Those who are detail-oriented, patient, and find satisfaction in the precise repair and maintenance of complex machinery

Watch out for

The work often involves a noisy industrial environment and requires physical dexterity and stamina
Tasks can be repetitive, demanding consistent focus on precision and quality over long periods