The steps you will need to take in order to become a saw operator can vary depending on the specific industry in which you intend to work. Some operators, for example, will work with wood in a wood shop, while others may operate chainsaws in the outdoors. Still others will operate specialty saws that are used for cutting through stone in quarries or other outdoor settings. The first step you will need to take if you want to become a saw operator is to research the specific industry you want to enter and find out what qualifications you will need to obtain.
You may not need to obtain any specific level of education if you want to become a saw operator in some industries, though others may require a high school education or even some post-secondary training. Forestry jobs, for example, did not historically require a college education, but in modern times, most people who work in such settings have forestry degrees from recognized colleges or universities. An operator at a quarry, however, may only need to undergo safety training as well as on the job operational training in order to become a saw operator.
You will need to be in reasonably good shape in order to become a saw operator, as it is likely that you will spend the better part of your day on your feet, and you will need to do some heavy lifting. If the saw is portable, it can be quite heavy and you will be responsible for toting it and operating it safely. If the saw is stationary, you will likely need to haul raw materials to the saw for cutting. In either scenario, you will need to be physically fit in order to complete the necessary tasks associated with the job.
Find out if you need to earn any certificates or licenses to become a saw operator in the industry you choose. Technical or vocational very often offer training that will allow you to get certified, and you will probably need to get your certifications renewed over time as you work. Look into the governing bodies that oversee the industry you enter and enroll for the appropriate training classes. You may be able to get a job with a company before you become a saw operator; taking a lower level position may afford you the opportunity to take advantage of training offered by your company. Some companies will even pay for tuition fees or other associated fees you will incur in the training process.
