Businesses and individuals purchase lumber for various activities including building structures. These businesses and individuals use lumber traders to assist in their purchases. Lumber traders are individuals trained and skilled in the purchase of lumber. The salary for these individuals depends on the individual's skill and experience in the lumber trading business.
Qualifications
In order to become a lumber trader, an individual must have at least an associate degree from an accredited university. Employers also seek individuals with strong communication and writing skills who can work well with clients. Working with computers is also an important skill sought by employers. Finally, experience and knowledge of the lumber trading business is a key skill sought by employers.
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Salary
According to the job website Indeed, as of 2014 the average annual salary for a lumber trader was $86,000. In addition to this base hourly wage, lumber traders were compensated based on performance. These individuals also received commissions from their sales. Some lumber traders receive compensation based solely on sales revenue. Salaries based on performance allow companies to offer more competitive salaries to lumber traders.
Other Benefits
Besides a base salary, lumber traders are compensated with other benefits. These benefits can include health insurance, sick leave, vacation pay, life insurance and employer contributions to 401(k) plans. In addition, lumber traders can receive other benefits such as use of a company car and merit-based bonuses. Some lumber traders may belong to unions. These unions assist their members in obtaining the maximum benefits possible.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for lumber traders is expected to improve slightly over the next 10 years. The smaller amount of available jobs will be due to the consolidation of lumber trade companies and the increase in new technology. However, job openings will still occur due to the retirement of current workers and the continued demand for timber. These positions will be filled by individuals who have the required education and experience in the timber field.