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Operating Engineer Union Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

Sletten Companies

Welder/Fabricator

Great Falls, MT · On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

This role is signatory the Operators Engineers Union * Work environment is changing and will be both indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. * Travel is required Powered by JazzHR ...

Montana State University

Software Engineer

Bozeman, MT · On-site

$34.88 - $37/hr

... Union Affiliation FOCUS-MFPE FTE 1.0 Benefits Eligible Eligible Salary Salary range of $34.88 to ... Manage software development and maintenance across multiple languages, operating systems, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperating Engineer Union JobsOperating Engineer Union Jobs in Montana

Operating Engineer Union information

See Montana salary details

$55.1K

$80.5K

$108.3K

How much do operating engineer union jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer union in Montana is $80,531.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,500.00 and $97,800.00 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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Operating Engineer Union jobs in Montana? For Operating Engineer Union jobs in Montana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer Union jobs in Montana look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer Union jobs in Montana are:
What cities in Montana are hiring for Operating Engineer Union jobs? Cities in Montana with the most Operating Engineer Union job openings:
Operating Engineer Union jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer Union job openings in Montana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,531 per year, or $38.7 per hour.
Experienced Excavator Operator

Experienced Excavator Operator

Schellinger Construction

Columbia Falls, MT • On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Other

Posted 19 hours ago

Job description

Summary

Reporting to the Project Superintendent, the Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating an excavator for road construction activities.

Key Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the Excavator Operator include, but are not limited to:

  • Ability to effectively communicate to ground personnel, truck drivers, and supervisors.

  • Perform mainline digging and pipe installation for road construction.

  • Be capable of loading trucks with an excavator in a high production environment.

  • Work with the on-site mechanic or Shop Foreman to resolve any equipment breakdown issues.

  • Perform basic daily maintenance on equipment operated as needed.

  • Operate assigned equipment safely and efficiently.

Safety & Compliance

  • Comply with company safety policies, EEO policies, and standard company procedures.

  • Wear appropriate protective equipment: steel-toed boots, hard hats, eye protection, and ear protection.

Administration

  • Ability to fill out timecard and equipment inspections daily either manually or electronically.

Requirements/Experience

  • Minimum 8 years experience.

  • Must be willing and able to travel to jobsites within northwestern and central Montana. Possession of a camper or RV is recommended.

  • High School Diploma or G.E.D. preferred

  • Have a current driver’s license

  • Knowledge and understanding of pipe installation.

  • Minimum of 2 years experience operating an excavator.

  • Willing to work overtime, as required.

  • The work schedule is weather dependent, so flexibility is required.

  • Work is performed in an outdoor setting, which could include inclement weather, heat and cold, and exposure to dust.

  • Must comply with the company’s drug and alcohol testing requirements.

  • The successful applicant will be required to join or be a member of the Operating Engineers Union.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Department

Field Operations

Employment Type

Hourly

Minimum Experience

Experienced

Compensation

Davis Bacon Wages

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