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Operating Engineer Union Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Closing Date: Apply early as this job may be filled at any time. Rate of Pay: $32.65 ... Executing various track maintenance tasks, repairs, and installations, which may involve operating ...

Track Laborer - Regional - Onawa, IA

Onawa, IA

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Engineering Rate of Pay: 31.39 / hr. Closing Date: Apply early as this job may be filled at any ... Executing various track maintenance tasks, repairs, and installations, which may involve operating ...

Contract 12+ Months Skills Required • 2 or more years of experience in unionized manufacturing ... engineering, operations, and human resources or labor relations Preferred Skills • 1 or more ...

Apprentice Operator I

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... Union benefits including, but not limited to medical insurance and pension plan Take your career to ...

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... Union benefits including, but not limited to medical insurance and pension plan Take your career to ...

Apprentice Operator I

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... Union benefits including, but not limited to medical insurance and pension plan Take your career to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Operating Engineer Union information

See Iowa salary details

$56.4K

$82.4K

$110.8K

How much do operating engineer union jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer union in Iowa is $82,410.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operating Engineer (Union), and why are they important?

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 are Operating Engineer Union jobs?

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 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 Iowa? For Operating Engineer Union jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer Union jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer Union jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Operating Engineer Union jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Operating Engineer Union job openings:
Track Laborer Regional

$32.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago


Union Pacific rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 93 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 61 rated delivery companies


Job description

Reference Number:  4527 
Department: Engineering 

Closing Date:  Apply early as this job may be filled at any time.

Rate of Pay: $32.65 / hourly


*Most communications will be done electronically.  Please check email, including spam folders, daily.

If you wish to solicit an employee referral for this position, please ensure the employee submits the referral prior to submitting your application.

Description

Join a team of track laborers with a record of building and repairing railroad tracks for Union Pacific over 150 years! As a Track Laborer - Regional, you will play a vital role in the upkeep and enhancement of the tracks within your designated territory. By conducting essential maintenance, repairs, and installations, you will ensure the safe and efficient movement of trains, enabling Union Pacific to effectively serve its customers across North America. Join us and become part of a workforce that drives our success. Will you accept the challenge?

Accountabilities
  • Conducting thorough inspections of railroad tracks, track beds, and track right-of-way to identify any problems or defects.
  • Performing necessary repairs and replacements of rails, rail anchors, spikes, ballast, ties, and other components as required.
  • Assisting with the handling, unloading, and movement of track materials and equipment from rail cars, carts, or trucks. This may involve digging holes and trenches.
  • Executing various track maintenance tasks, repairs, and installations, which may involve operating heavy equipment.
  • Maintaining the track beds by removing vegetation and brush when necessary. You will also be responsible for sweeping, picking, and digging out dust or snow from movable track parts.
  • Adhering to company and industry safety rules, practices, and procedures at all times.
  • Building and maintaining positive working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, contractors, and customers. You will also need to effectively handle high-pressure situations.
  • Ensuring strict compliance with all railroad rules and regulations regarding safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).
  • Performing any other duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Qualifications - Required
  • Applicants must have reached the age of 18 or above.
  • Valid driver's license
  • Proficient verbal and written communication skills to deliver information to coworker(s) and supervisor(s)
  • Experience reading and understanding instructions (examples may include: operating and safety rules, bulletins, special instructions, and federal regulatory documents)
  • To be considered for this position, candidates are required to successfully complete an assessment in English before proceeding to the interview stage.  For more information go to the FAQs on UP.jobs.
Qualifications - Preferred
  • Possess Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Class A or Class B
  • Experience working outdoors in variable weather conditions (consider professional, personal, and volunteer experience)
  • Experience welding or a welding certificate (consider professional, personal, and volunteer experience)
  • Experience working in a construction-type setting (consider professional, personal, and volunteer experience)
  • Experience operating heavy equipment such as construction, farm, etc. (consider professional, personal, and volunteer experience)
  • Experience of 1 year or more in Railroad Maintenance of Way work
  • Willing to work on-call, overtime, various shifts, 7 days a week, as well as weekends and holidays
  • Have a permanent residence within a 50-mile radious of the hired location by the 60-day probationary period
Physical and Mental Job Requirements
  • Candidates are required to successfully pass a Physical Ability Test (PAT) before being considered for employment.  This is separate from the medical exam.  For more information go to the FAQs on UP.jobs.
  • Physically Demanding Tasks: Must have the capacity to engage in physically demanding tasks, including occasional bending, stooping, and kneeling.
  • Lifting and Carrying: Must be able to occasionally lift and carry items weighing up to 65 lbs, as well as push and pull objects up to 119 lbs.
  • Standing: Must be capable of standing for extended periods during the workday, with the flexibility to change positions periodically for comfort.
  • Walking: Safely walk and maintain balance on uneven surfaces.
  • Climbing: Must be able to climb ladders to access truck storage as necessary.
Work Conditions
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring company sponsorship.
  • Willingness to comply with company policies regarding the use of personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety boots, hard hats, and hearing protection.
  • Availability to work at locations where you are willing to reside and perform job duties.
  • Demonstrated commitment to practicing safe work habits.
  • Ability to work in proximity to large equipment, such as railcars, locomotives, and cranes.
  • Frequent travel is a part of the job.
  • Must have reliable transportation.
  • Work may be conducted in various rural and remote geographic areas.

What we offer:

  • A strengths-based, engagement-focused, and performance-oriented culture
  • Ongoing learning, development, and Educational Assistance (including little to no out-of-pocket cost for online and in-person courses at the University of Nebraska at Omaha)
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with 20% match up to 5%
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance, which are collectively bargained for through union membership
  • Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs

What Union Pacific employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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