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Operating Engineer Union Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

Field Inspector - Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$35.08 - $60.46/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Must be part of the Operating Engineers Local 12 and/or Operating Engineers Local 3 union, or willing to join the union(s). * Physically able to regularly lift and /or move up to 75 lbs. * Valid ...

Field Inspector - Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$64.18 - $67.96/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Must be part of the Operating Engineers Local 12 and/or Operating Engineers Local 3 union, or willing to join the union(s). * Physically able to regularly lift and /or move up to 75 lbs. * Valid ...

Mesa Energy Systems, Inc.

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$29.31 - $56.18/hr

... well as engineering applications and automated control systems. Mesa Energy Systems has an ... Complete daily checks and maintain necessary operating records. * Perform PM maintenance and ...

Monitors quality control programs, operating procedures, and production standards to improve ... Collaborate with engineering team to evaluate and implement equipment and process improvements that ...

Production Manager

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$98K - $116K/yr

Monitors quality control programs, operating procedures, and production standards to improve ... Collaborate with engineering team to evaluate and implement equipment and process improvements that ...

Production Manager

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$98K - $116K/yr

Monitors quality control programs, operating procedures, and production standards to improve ... Collaborate with engineering team to evaluate and implement equipment and process improvements that ...

Operating Engineer Union information

See Bakersfield, CA salary details

$62.1K

$90.7K

$122K

How much do operating engineer union jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer union in Bakersfield, CA is $90,738.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,300.00 and $110,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a union operating engineer do?

A union operating engineer operates and maintains heavy machinery and equipment such as boilers, cranes, and HVAC systems in construction, industrial, or building environments. They ensure equipment runs safely and efficiently, often working from technical manuals and using tools like gauges and controls. Certification and union membership typically provide training and job security in this skilled trade.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Bakersfield, CA? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer Union jobs in Bakersfield, CA? For Operating Engineer Union jobs in Bakersfield, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer Union jobs in Bakersfield, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer Union jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:
What cities near Bakersfield, CA are hiring for Operating Engineer Union jobs? Cities near Bakersfield, CA with the most Operating Engineer Union job openings:
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer Union job openings in Bakersfield, CA 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 $90,738 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Field Inspector - Bakersfield

G3 Quality, Inc.

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$35.08 - $60.46/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Location: Bakersfield Region

G3 Quality is looking for experienced Field Construction Materials Testing Technicians for projects throughout the Central Valley region in California (Bakersfield Metropolitan Area). We are seeking candidates who demonstrate a strong work ethic with a professional attitude. The ideal candidate will have asphalt coring, concrete testing, and nuclear gauge usage experience for a civil engineering or materials testing company.

Responsibilities

  • Timely documentation of all testing activities and observations.
  • Daily coordination with Client and Contractor representatives.
  • Strict adherence to required test methods.
  • Performance of duties in a safe manner.

Pay Scale

  • Local 12 Field Inspector:  $64.18 - $67.96 an hour
  • Local 12 Apprentice:  $39.58 - $59.36 an hour
  • Local 3 Field Inspector:  $47.31 - $63.39 an hour
  • Local 3 Apprentice:  $33.76 - $52.18 an hour
  • Prevailing wage rates apply. 

Benefits

  • Health & welfare and retirement/pension plans are offered through the union.
    • Union benefit links:  OE12 Benefits or OE3 ​​​​​Benefits 
  • G3 offers a 401k benefit plan, separate from the union plan.

Position Requirements

  • Must be part of the Operating Engineers Local 12 and/or Operating Engineers Local 3 union, or willing to join the union(s).
  • Physically able to regularly lift and /or move up to 75 lbs.
  • Valid drivers’ license.
  • Ability to read plans and specifications.
  • Nuclear gauge user HAZMAT certification.
  • Current Caltrans certification in various test methods relating to soil, concrete, and hot mix asphalt testing.
  • Other certifications are a plus (such as ACI, NICET, ICC, QSP).

EEO Statement

G3 Quality, Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

About the Company

G3 Quality is a team of engineers and professional experts who’ve helped countless clients deliver successful infrastructure projects for the past decade. Through a mix of world-class Quality Management, Pavement Engineering, Inspection, and Materials Testing services, we are your partner every step of the way.
Since 2013, we have built a strong reputation among contractors, design firms, construction managers, and local state and government agencies across the West Coast. Led by industry veterans Chris Gerber and Susan Pierce, our team has grown into a force of over 125 professionals since its inception, with a corporate office in Cerritos, California, and additional laboratories and offices in Bakersfield, Redlands, and Sacramento.

Thank you for your interest in employment opportunities at G3.

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