ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Operating Engineer Union Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

KASA Construction Inc.

Operating Engineer

Chino, CA

$70K - $95K/yr

Operating Engineer Full KASA Construction Inc., one of Southern California's leading heavy-civil ... All work must be performed in accordance with union jurisdiction and prevailing standards. Who we ...

MalaceHR

Lead Operating Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

Lead Operating Engineer Facility Operations What this role involves This position leads engineering ... Technical or trade school background, union training, or military engineering experience

Sealaska

Crane Operator

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$34.41 - $68.18/hr

... Operating Engineer - Union (OE3) Friction/Conventional Job Summary: The Marine Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes on vessels, offshore rigs, or marine ...

Woocheen

Crane Operator

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$34.41 - $68.18/hr

... Operating Engineer - Union (OE3) Friction/Conventional Job Summary: The Marine Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes on vessels, offshore rigs, or marine ...

Sealaska

Crane Operator

Vallejo, CA · On-site

... Operating Engineer - Union (OE3) Friction/Conventional Job Summary: The Marine Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes on vessels, offshore rigs, or marine ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperating Engineer Union JobsOperating Engineer Union Jobs in California

Operating Engineer Union information

See California salary details

$59.2K

$86.6K

$116.5K

How much do operating engineer union jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer union in California is $86,590.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $105,100.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Operating Engineer Union jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer Union job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,590 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

Operating Engineer (Union)

D-Line Constructors, Inc.

Oakland, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Application Instructions
D-line Constructors routinely hires Union labor to support the team. If you qualify for the role of Operating Engineer you will hear from the hiring team within 1 week of your application submission. The following is an overview of our application process:
  1. Complete the application process by submitting a resume
  2. Once you submit your application you will be prompted to complete the Culture Index Questionnaire - THIS IS REQUIRED This is a series of questions that helps the hiring team learn about applicant perception, values and behaviors to help us assess if the applicant will be a good fit for the role.
  3. If you are qualified for the role and have the relevant Culture Index profile we are looking for, you will have a call with the hiring manager who is D-Line's Field Operations Manager.

Position Description
D-Line Constructors
Company Overview
D-Line is a quality driven, relationship-minded, general engineering contractor. Our mission statement is, "We Build Relationships". This represents our company culture as well as our attitude towards all external stakeholders with whom we interact. We pride ourselves on delivering timely and superior construction services to our clients, which always results in repeat business. Success on a project is achieved by pre-planning, communication, and operational execution. We self-perform a full range of civil construction services for public and private infrastructure projects that include: demolition, earthwork, grading, paving, site utilities, and environmental habitat restorations.
Purpose - Why We Exist
To Build and Serve Lasting Relationships
Mission - The Pinnacle: The Top of Our Mountain
To be the most sought after trade contractor by our customers, while being recognized by our employees as the best place to work
Core Business
Self performance construction services
D-Line Constructors Core Values
  • Put the Cherry on Top - We exist to serve our customers, our coworkers, and our community. We take pride in our work. We go the extra mile.
  • No Bullshit - We don't overpromise. We build trust. We honor commitments. We stand behind our work.
  • Dig In - We work harder. We are relentless problem solvers. We never give up. We raise the bar.
  • With Passion - We are driven by continuous improvement. We are grateful, curious, and focused. We don't harbor complacency.

D-Line is seeking a Operating Engineer to join the team!
Position Requirements
Subject to CBA
Equal Opportunity Employer
D-Line Constructors is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, knowledge, skill, ability, and business needs. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable laws. We value diversity and believe that a diverse workforce drives innovation and success.

Apply