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Operating Engineer Union Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

THIS IS A UNION POSITION Job Summary The Heavy Equipment Operator manages the safe and efficient ... Operating engineers may be expected to perform equipment and materials inspections. * Must be able ...

AMHS - Junior Engineer

Juneau, AK · On-site

$34.01 - $43.24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inland Boatman's Union Range: 53 ATTENTION! ALL APPLICANTS! If you're looking for more than just a ... Working aboard the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) means operating in a dynamic, fast-paced ...

AMHS - Junior Engineer

Juneau, AK · On-site

$34.01 - $43.24/hr

  • Retirement

Union seniority plays a major role in how the work is assigned and how the bid positions are ... Working aboard the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) means operating in a dynamic, fast-paced ...

Journeyman Mechanic 1

Anchorage, AK

$28 - $37/hr

This is a Union position and will require membership of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 302. Mechanic Responsibilities * Troubleshooting and repairing equipment, including ...

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Operating Engineer Union information

See Alaska salary details

$64.6K

$94.5K

$127.1K

How much do operating engineer union jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer union in Alaska is $94,490.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,200.00 and $114,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operating engineer union?

Operating Engineer Union jobs refer to positions held by skilled workers who operate and maintain heavy equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and other machinery used in construction and industrial projects. These professionals are typically members of a union, such as the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE), which provides training, job placement, and collective bargaining for better wages and benefits. Union operating engineers often work on major construction sites, road projects, and infrastructure developments, ensuring equipment is run safely and efficiently. Membership in the union may require completing an apprenticeship program and meeting certain qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operating engineer union?

To thrive as an Operating Engineer (Union), you need strong mechanical aptitude, a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with union apprenticeship completion. Familiarity with equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, forklifts, and safety systems, as well as relevant certifications like OSHA or NCCCO, is often required. Outstanding problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set exceptional professionals apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, precise, and efficient operation of machinery on construction sites.

What are some common challenges operating engineer union members face on the job site, and how can they prepare to handle them?

Operating Engineer Union members often work with heavy machinery in dynamic environments, which can present challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing site conditions, maintaining strict safety standards, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. Staying updated with ongoing safety training and being proactive about preventative maintenance are key to minimizing risks. Additionally, strong communication skills help coordinate activities with other trades and supervisors, ensuring smooth workflow and reducing potential hazards. Union resources and peer support also play a vital role in overcoming these workplace challenges.

What is the difference between Operating Engineer Union vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectOperating Engineer UnionHeavy Equipment Operator
Credentials/CertificationsUnion membership, OSHA certifications, specialized trainingOSHA certifications, equipment-specific training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, power plants, industrial facilitiesConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projects
Employer/Industry UsageUnionized construction and industrial companiesPrivate contractors, construction firms

The Operating Engineer Union and Heavy Equipment Operator roles often overlap, with both requiring OSHA certifications and equipment training. Operating Engineers typically work in unionized environments on large-scale projects, handling complex machinery and systems. Heavy Equipment Operators focus on operating specific machinery like bulldozers or cranes, often in similar settings. While their skills are related, Operating Engineers usually have broader responsibilities and union benefits.

What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer Union jobs in Alaska?

For Operating Engineer Union jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer Union jobs in Alaska look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer Union jobs in Alaska are:

What cities in Alaska are hiring for Operating Engineer Union jobs?

Cities in Alaska with the most Operating Engineer Union job openings:

Infographic showing various Operating Engineer Union job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,490 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Central Environmental, Inc.

Fairbanks, AK

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

***this job posting is for members of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 302 only. Applicants will be dispatched from the union Hall.

About this position: Heavy Equipment Operator in Fairbanks, AK

The Essential Duties and Responsibilities are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed for this position and are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential duty. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Applicants will be notified via email or phone within ten business days regarding application status.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

· Operates construction, excavating and loading equipment and heavy machinery including excavators, dozers, compactors, scrapers, loaders, backhoes, etc.

· Prepares construction sites for building, demolition, or excavation.

· Transports tools and other construction equipment to and from construction sites.

· Operates machinery used to open trenches and expose utilities.

· Inspects, fuels and performs routine vehicle maintenance prior to beginning shift.

· Consults digging plans, machine specifications, and safety procedures for specific tasks.

· Ensures work is completed to specification by observing grade stakes, material levels, hand signals, and other markers.

Required (Minimum Necessary) Qualifications

· Education Requirements: High School Diploma or GED

· Level of Experience Requirements: 0-1 year related experience

· Extensive knowledge of machinery operation and capabilities.

· Must be a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 302

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics

· Ability to read site plans related to land grade, civil, demolition, etc.

· Ability to complete safety awareness training.

· Excellent mechanical and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to follow instructions.

· Knowledge of organizational procedures and workflows – understanding how work moves through a company.

· Basic knowledge of relevant technologies or tools – e.g., Microsoft 365, communication platforms, or industry‑standard software.

· Knowledge of customer service practices – principles of providing quality service and managing inquiries professionally.

· Knowledge of data privacy and confidentiality principles – awareness of proper handling of sensitive information.

· Communication skills (written and verbal) – ability to convey information clearly and professionally.

· Time management and prioritization – balancing multiple tasks and meeting deadlines.

· Problem‑solving and critical thinking – analyzing issues and selecting appropriate solutions.

· Interpersonal and teamwork skills – building rapport and collaborating effectively with others.

· Attention to detail – producing accurate, error‑free work.

Preferred

· N/A

Necessary Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this role. Employees must always maintain a constant state of mental alertness. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

· Must be able to operate machinery in all weather conditions and terrains.

· Must be able to work in different temperatures and changing weather conditions.

· Must be able to traverse and inspect all areas of jobsite in all types of weather; this may include walking, climbing, reaching, bending, crawling, or stretching.

· Exposure to characteristic construction site dangers.

· Willing to travel

Work Environment

The work environmental characteristics described here are representative of those that must be borne by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the role. Employees must always maintain a constant state of situational awareness. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

· Work performed in different temperatures and changing weather conditions.

· Must be able to traverse and inspect all areas of jobsite in all types of weather conditions.

Supervisory Responsibilities

· This position will not have supervisory responsibilities.

DOT Covered/Safety-Sensitive Role Requirements

· This position is not subject to federal requirements regarding Department of Transportation “safety-sensitive” functions.

Additional Qualifying Factors

As a condition of employment, you will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screening and have acceptable background check results. If applicable to the contract, you must also obtain and maintain the appropriate clearance levels required and must also be able to obtain access to military installations.

Shareholder Preference

BSNC gives hiring, promotion, training, and retention preference to BSNC shareholders, shareholder descendants and shareholder spouses who meet the minimum qualifications for the job.

Bering Straits Native Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any status protected by state or federal law, or any other basis prohibited by law.