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Operating Engineer Union Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

Lead Operating Engineer

San Diego, CA

$108K - $143K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... the capabilities of Engineering team Support on-call or emergency response situations (if ... union training, military service or college is desirable Universal CFC EPA certification or ...

Lead Operating Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$108K - $143K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Engineering team • Support on-call or emergency response situations (if applicable ... education, union training, military service or college is desirable • Universal CFC EPA ...

The Building Engineer / Union Certified Engineer OR Non-Certified Engineer is responsible for ... Participate in the development and implementation of standard operating procedures for facility ...

Building Engineer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$46.26 - $54.76/hr

The Building Engineer / Union Certified Engineer OR Non-Certified Engineer is responsible for ... operating procedures for facility operations. Safety and Compliance • Conduct regular safety ...

The Building Engineer / Union Certified Engineer OR Non-Certified Engineer is responsible for ... Participate in the development and implementation of standard operating procedures for facility ...

Union Utility Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is a position attached to the Collective Bargaining Agreement between JLL and the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 39. Key Responsibilities * Repair restroom equipment such as ...

New

Lead Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA

$48.07 - $52.88/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead Operating Engineer - JLL What this job involves: Join JLL as a Lead Operating Engineer and ... Trade school certification, union apprenticeship training, or military technical experience.

Lead Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$48.07 - $52.88/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead Operating Engineer - JLL What this job involves: Join JLL as a Lead Operating Engineer and ... Trade school certification, union apprenticeship training, or military technical experience.

Union Mobile Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is a position attached to the Collective Bargaining Agreement between JLL and the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 39. What is your day to day? * Performance of ongoing ...

Certified Engineer

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

Completion of the Union's Supervision for Chief/Assistant Chief Engineers; * Operating Engineer Apprenticeships, Technical Program Certifications, or Prior Military training in Building Automation ...

New

... Union's Supervision for Chief/Assistant Chief Engineers; - Operating Engineer Apprenticeships, Technical Program Certifications, or Prior Military training in Building Automation Systems (BAS ...

... Union's Supervision for Chief/Assistant Chief Engineers; - Operating Engineer Apprenticeships, Technical Program Certifications, or Prior Military training in Building Automation Systems (BAS ...

Certified Engineer

Indio, CA · On-site

$55.63/hr

... Union's Supervision for Chief/Assistant Chief Engineers; - Operating Engineer Apprenticeships, Technical Program Certifications, or Prior Military training in Building Automation Systems (BAS ...

Certified Engineer

Indio, CA · On-site

$55.63/hr

... Union's Supervision for Chief/Assistant Chief Engineers; - Operating Engineer Apprenticeships, Technical Program Certifications, or Prior Military training in Building Automation Systems (BAS ...

Showing results 21-40

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:

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.

Crane Operator

Woocheen

Vallejo, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Crane Operator - Classification - 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 terminals. This role ensures the secure lifting, movement, and placement of cargo and equipment while adhering to strict safety protocols and operational standards. The position requires technical expertise, precision, and strong communication skills to coordinate with teams in dynamic marine environments.
Only local applicants will be considered, no relocation.
Duties/Responsibilities:
• Operate marine cranes safely and efficiently, manipulating controls to regulate speed and movement of loads.
• Monitor crane performance and ensure compliance with operational guidelines.
• Adhere to all safety procedures, regulations, and company policies.
• Conduct pre-lift briefings (toolbox talks) and maintain safe exclusion zones.
• Verify rigging and load charts are correctly followed for each lift.
• Perform daily inspections and preventive maintenance, including lubrication, cleaning, and function checks.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and report any mechanical issues or malfunctions.
• Conduct minor repairs as needed.
• Interpret and execute lift plans, ensuring load weights are within the crane's capacity.
• Assess environmental and operational conditions to confirm safe lifting conditions.
• Communicate with the vessel's bridge, deck crew, and/or rig teams via 2-way radio and visual signals.
• Work collaboratively to ensure smooth and precise lifting operations.
Required Skills/Abilities:
• Experience as a crane operator in marine, offshore, or industrial environments.
• Valid certifications/licenses as required by local or international maritime regulations (e.g., API, OPITO, or equivalent). NCCCO Certification required.
• Knowledge of lifting operations, load charts, and rigging practices.
• Ability to pass required medical and fitness-to-work examinations.
Friction/Conventional crane experience required.
Education and Experience:
• Highschool diploma or equivalent.
• Crane Operation required, Marine experience preferred.
• NCCCO Certification required.
Working Conditions:
The physical and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Setting: Work aboard vessels, offshore rigs, and marine ports/terminals.
• Conditions: Exposure to variable weather and sea conditions. Will require rotating shifts, overtime, and extended periods of travel.
Physical Demands:
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to walk, use hands to finger, handle objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; bending or crouching; talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and in physically demanding environments.
Work Environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions and other elements prevalent at the time.
This description is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position. It is intended to accurately reflect the activities and requirements of the position, but duties may be added, deleted, or modified, as necessary. This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.
This position is a Union role - Operating Engineers Local 3 (OE3)
Hourly rate is based on current status in OE3 - Fringe Benefit details are additional and not listed below.
OE3 Apprentice rates are as follows: $34.41-$53.18
OE3 Operator rates are as follow: $58.04-$68.18
Review the Benefits associated with this position: https://www.sealaska.com/benefits/
Who is Sealaska? Established in 1972, Sealaska is the Alaska Native regional corporation for Southeast Alaska. Our 23,000 shareholders are Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian people with more than 10,000 years of ancestral ties to the oceans, forests and communities of Southeast Alaska. We serve the twin goals of economic prosperity and environmental protection. CS Marine Constructors, Inc. is a subsidiary of Sealaska.
We are committed to providing the best possible climate for maximum development and goal achievement for all our employees. As a subsidiary of a Native-owned company, CS Marine Constructors, Inc. is proud to promote an inclusive and diverse workplace, with respect for the cultural traditions in the communities where we operate.
CS Marine Constructors, Inc, is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, sex, gender, age, religion or religious creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. However, preference may be extended to an enrolled member of a federally-recognized Indian Tribe.*
*"Indian Tribe" means an Indian Tribe, band, nation, or other organized group or community, including any Alaska Native village or regional or village corporation as defined in or established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (85 Stat. 668; 43 U.S.C. 1601) which is recognized as eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United States to Indians because of their status as Indians.