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Heavy Equipment Operator Union Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

RMS Cranes

Heavy Lift Crane Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

OSHA 10 * Must be a member of the International Union Of Operating Engineers or join the union ... Operate complex equipment safely and efficiently according to company safety and policies.

RMS Cranes

Heavy Lift Crane Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

OSHA 10 * Must be a member of the International Union Of Operating Engineers or join the union ... Operate complex equipment safely and efficiently according to company safety and policies.

RB Global Inc.

Loader Operator I

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Must remain alert to potential hazards associated with heavy equipment and other vehicles operated in their work area Working Conditions: * This position involves primarily outdoor work in all types ...

Solvenow Inc.

Technician

Rio Rancho, NM

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Competent in the Operations of Heavy Equipment * Digital Literacy (e.g. Maintenance Connection ... Union position * Benefits (medical, dental, vision) - Union provided - No employee cost * PTO ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Must remain alert to potential hazards associated with heavy equipment and other vehicles operated in their work area Working Conditions: * This position involves primarily outdoor work in all types ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Must remain alert to potential hazards associated with heavy equipment and other vehicles operated in their work area Working Conditions: * This position involves primarily outdoor work in all types ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Union JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Union Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Heavy Equipment Operator Union information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$12

$21

$30

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator union in Rio Rancho, NM is $21.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get in the union for heavy equipment operator?

To join a union as a heavy equipment operator, you typically need to complete an apprenticeship program or have relevant work experience, pass a skills test, and meet age and safety requirements. Joining a union also often requires paying initiation fees and dues, and being employed by a union-affiliated contractor or applying directly through the union local.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy equipment operator union member?

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 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.

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 is a heavy equipment operator union?

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 heavy equipment operator union member 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 are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Heavy Equipment Operator Union job openings:
Heavy Equipment Operator Union jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Union job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,490 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Heavy Lift Crane Operator

TNT Crane & Rigging

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

TNT Crane & Rigging rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

111th of 171 rated vehicle equipment hire

Job description

RMS

Position: Heavy Lift Crane Operator

Location: Albuquerque, NM

Reports to: Branch Manager

RMS is looking to add experienced full-time heavy lift crane operator for a project in Santa Teresa, NM. The following are a list of requirements. You must meet all the requirements below to be considered for this position.

Experience operating the following crane:

  • Must have a current crane operating license (NCCCO) LBC.
  • Liebherr LR 1600 with Derrick Boom and Luffing Jib. Experience required 5 years.
  • Liebherr LR 1700 Main Boom.  Experience required 5 years.
  • Current New Mexico State License Conventional (Lattice Boom) Class I license preferred.
  • OSHA 10
  • Must be a member of the International Union Of Operating Engineers or join the union.

Compensation based on experience and 7 days a week Per Diem

Summary: Ensures safety first, along with safe lifting of the load, proper set-up of crane, while maintaining Customer focus. Follows all State and Federal laws while operating motor vehicles. Follows all safety and environmental policies while performing the job task.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate complex equipment safely and efficiently according to company safety and policies.
  • Completes Field Ticket and turn it into local branch office. If other chargeable equipment was utilized on the job, make sure to write it down on the Field Ticket.
  • Completes payroll book daily with the hours worked. Hours must be reported to the local branch office no later than 8:00 a.m. every Monday.
  • Periodically reviews assigned crane and other model cranes service and operation manuals.
  • Be able to read, interpret, and calculate the load percentage by utilizing the load charts of the crane’s owner and operation manual.
  • Be able to program the crane's computer in proper set-up mode, set-up crane on location in a safe and professional manner.
  • Understands and can perform proper rigging techniques to ensure safe lifting of the load.
  • Inspect crane and fill out daily and monthly inspection report before operating the vehicle. Turns in inspection report to the local branch office.
  • Performs other job duties as assigned.

Skills Required:

  • Good verbal and written communication skills to understand instructions, applicable safety regulations, and to maintain records.
  • Ability to troubleshoot mechanical problems.

What TNT Crane & Rigging employees say

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