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Heavy Equipment Operator Union Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Subzero Excavating

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator: ** - Heavy Equipment Operators, with at-least (4) years equipment ... We are a non-union company with very little prevailing wage work. Hourly Pay- $35-$45. Applications ...

Lawrence Lynch

Heavy Equipment Operator

Falmouth, MA · On-site

This Heavy Equipment Operator position is a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers (I.U.O.E.) Local 4, which has a long history of delivering world-class results. As a member of ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator Union information

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How much do heavy equipment operator union jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator union in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator Union member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator Union member, you need proficiency in operating and maintaining machinery like bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, often backed by a high school diploma and completion of a union apprenticeship. Familiarity with GPS systems, safety protocols (like OSHA regulations), and relevant equipment certifications are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, teamwork, and a commitment to safety are essential soft skills. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality work on construction sites, supporting both personal safety and project success.

What union is for equipment operators?

The International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) is the primary union representing heavy equipment operators. It offers training, certifications, and collective bargaining for workers in construction, mining, and other heavy equipment fields.

How to join the union as a heavy equipment operator?

To join a union as a heavy equipment operator, you typically need to meet experience requirements, complete apprenticeship or training programs, and apply through the union's membership process. Certification in operating specific machinery and a valid driver's license are often required. Union membership usually involves paying dues and attending union meetings or training sessions.

What are some typical challenges faced by Heavy Equipment Operators working in union environments, and how can they be managed?

Heavy Equipment Operators in unionized settings often encounter challenges such as adapting to variable work sites, following strict safety protocols, and coordinating with large, multidisciplinary teams. Navigating shift rotations and adhering to union rules regarding overtime and seniority can also be complex. Successful operators proactively communicate with supervisors and colleagues, stay updated on safety training, and participate in union meetings to remain informed about workplace rights and changes. Embracing ongoing training and maintaining flexibility helps operators manage these challenges while advancing their careers.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operator Union vs Crane Operator?

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator UnionCrane Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), OSHA certificationsCrane operator certification, OSHA certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, industrial settings, shipping yards
Employer & IndustryUnionized construction and mining companiesConstruction firms, shipping companies, industrial plants

Both Heavy Equipment Operators and Crane Operators often require OSHA certifications and work in construction or industrial environments. While they share similar credentials and work settings, Heavy Equipment Operators typically handle bulldozers, loaders, and excavators, whereas Crane Operators specialize in operating cranes for lifting heavy loads. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right career path within the heavy machinery industry.

How much does a Union heavy machine operator make a year?

A union heavy equipment operator typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and union agreements. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in large projects can earn higher wages and benefits.

Do heavy equipment operators have a union?

Many heavy equipment operators are members of labor unions, which negotiate wages, benefits, and working conditions on their behalf. Union membership can provide job security, training opportunities, and collective bargaining power for operators working in construction, mining, and other industries. However, union presence varies by region and employer.

What are Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs?

Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs involve operating large machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, excavators, and loaders on construction sites, roadways, and other infrastructure projects. These operators are members of a labor union, which provides collective bargaining for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. Union membership often requires completing an apprenticeship program and adhering to safety and operational standards set by both the union and employers. Working as a union heavy equipment operator can provide job security, access to training, and advancement opportunities within the industry.

What Does a Union Heavy Equipment Operator Do?

A union heavy equipment operator controls machinery during construction, paving, or industrial projects. In this career, you are a member of a labor union, which is an organization that negotiates contracts and ensures employees’ rights through legal assistance and collective bargaining. Your duties include the operation of equipment, such as bulldozers, cranes, backhoes, graders, drills, and other machinery used to build structures, pave roads, or perform demolition tasks. You coordinate with supervisors and crews to ensure that you operate your equipment safely. Your responsibilities also include equipment maintenance and transporting machinery to the worksite, depending on the size of the machine.

More about Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs
What cities are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs? Cities with the most Heavy Equipment Operator Union job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs are:
Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Union job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operator - Union

Heavy Equipment Operator - Union

Vulcan Materials Company

Hamburg, NJ • On-site

$32.42/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Vulcan Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

329th of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

$1,500 Employee Referral Bonus Eligible
Build Your Career. Build America's Future.
Vulcan Materials Company is the nation's largest producer of construction aggregates and a major producer of aggregates-based construction materials including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete. When you join Vulcan, it's more than starting an exciting career - you get to make a difference for millions of people every day across the country.
When you join Vulcan, you join a dynamic culture in which career development is encouraged, excellence is rewarded and diversity is valued. No matter the role or the location across the country, every member of the Vulcan team lives through the Vulcan Way: doing the right thing, the right way, at the right time .
***The approximate schedule for this position will be: 6am-5pm Mon-Fri***
What You'll Do:
Promote Safety. Take an active role in prioritizing safety throughout the operation for yourself and others at all times in accordance with MSHA and Vulcan standards.
Operate Heavy Equipment. Safely operate off-highway equipment to transport raw materials and/or finished products throughout the facility in a safe and efficient manner.
Inspect Equipment. Perform thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections and accurately complete daily mobile equipment reports and other relevant documentation.
Maintain Equipment. Maintain equipment performance by checking vehicle fluid levels and adding correct fluids as necessary and assisting in performing other minor maintenance.
Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings. Monitor the plant and operations and report any necessary maintenance or adjustments that may be required to ensure safety.
Additional Responsibilities. Other duties as assigned. This position will operate multiple pieces of equipment 75% of the time but will be required to help with ground and repair duties as needed and required by plant management.
Qualifications
Skills You'll Need:
Experience. Previous experience operating heavy construction equipment is preferred.
Knowledge of Best Practices. Knowledge of general principles and practices of operating and servicing heavy construction equipment is preferred.
Flexibility. Must be willing to work overtime and extended hours depending on customer and company demands. Must be able to work outside in all types of weather conditions and tolerate being exposed to loud noises.
What You'll Like About Us :
Salary and Benefits. The salary is prescribed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement. With no previous experience, the salary starts at $32.42.
Great Company Culture. Our people share a competitive drive for excellence , in an environment of trust, teamwork, open-mindedness and communication.
Safe. Industry leader in health and safety standards. We are committed to creating a safe work environment and protecting all employees and customers.
Meaningful Work. What sets up apart is the work we do impacts daily lives - and every employee contributes. Our aggregates produced are used to build roads, schools, hospitals, airports, and housing throughout the United States .
Training and Development. We see our development programs , and helping our employees meet their goals, as a key part of our business.
Vulcan Materials Company is committed to employing a diverse workforce. You will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability. You also have the right to be free from discrimination for medical needs arising from pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
NOTICE TO TEMPORARY STAFFING AGENCIES, PLACEMENT SERVICES AND PROFESSIONAL RECRUITERS
Vulcan Materials Company has an internal recruiting department. Please review our policy regarding the use of temporary staffing agencies, placement services, and professional recruiters.

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