1

Operating Engineer Union Jobs in Benton, AR (NOW HIRING)

Sorter

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$12 - $15.25/hr

About Circular Services Circular Services is a leading developer and operator of circular economy ... civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical ...

New

Operating Engineer Union information

See Benton, AR salary details

$50.9K

$74.5K

$100.2K

How much do operating engineer union jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer union in Benton, AR is $74,492.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,900.00 and $90,400.00 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 cities near Benton, AR are hiring for Operating Engineer Union jobs? Cities near Benton, AR with the most Operating Engineer Union job openings:
Track Laborer System Driver North Little Rock - System Travel Required

Track Laborer System Driver North Little Rock - System Travel Required

Union Pacific

North Little Rock, AR • On-site

$32.21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Union Pacific rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 93 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 64 rated delivery companies


Job description

Reference Number:  4815 
Department: Engineering 
Closing Date:  Apply early as this job may be filled at any time.
Rate of Pay: $32.21 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 our team of track laborers with a record of building and repairing track for Union Pacific for more than 150 years! As a Track Laborer - System Driver, you'll perform the maintenance, repairs and installations vital to the safe and efficient movement of trains to serve customers throughout North America! We are powered by our people, will you join our team?

Required Certifications: This position requires a CDL upon hire.  You must meet the following Motor Vehicle and Medical Requirements:

1. Must be a minimum of 21 years of age

2. Have valid driver's license

3. Have an acceptable driving record per your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)

Medical Requirements: Must meet the medical requirements (also called physical qualifications) for commercial motor vehicle drivers as specified by the US Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The FMCSA physical qualifications for drivers can be found on the FMCSA homepage. Health and Medical Services at Union Pacific Railroad will make the final determination on whether or not an individual meets the FMCSA medical qualifications, and may add additional medical requirements to assure the person can safely perform job tasks, with or without accommodation.  
 

Accountabilities
  • Conduct regular inspections of tracks, including beds and right-of-way, to identify any issues or defects.
  • Replace or repair rails, rail anchors, spikes, ballast, ties, and other track components as necessary.
  • Assist in the unloading and movement of track materials and equipment from rail cars, carts, or trucks.
  • Operate equipment such as excavators or trenchers to perform tasks such as digging holes and trenches.
  • Maintain track beds by clearing vegetation and brush, as well as removing dust or snow from movable track parts through sweeping, picking, and digging.
  • Adhere to company and industry safety rules, practices, and procedures to ensure a safe working environment.
  • Drive company vehicles as required for job duties.
  • Foster positive working relationships with colleagues, supervisors, contractors, and customers, and effectively resolve any issues that may arise.
  • Ensure compliance with all safety, operational, and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations and rules.
  • Perform additional assigned tasks or responsibilities as needed.
Qualifications - Required
  • Applicants must have reached the age of 21 or above.
  • Able to understand and apply safety rules, practice safe work habits, identify safety risks and avoid potentially risky behaviors and situations
  • Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Class A or Class B
  • Proficient verbal and written communication skills to deliver information to coworker(s) and supervisor(s)
  • Able to read and comprehend regulations and instructions.
  • In order 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
  • Experience operating heavy equipment such as construction, farm, etc. (consider professional, personal, and volunteer experience)
  • Willing to work on-call, overtime, various shifts, 7 days a week, as well as weekends and holidays
  • Experience of 1 year or more in Railroad Maintenance of Way work
  • Experience working in a construction-type setting (consider professional, personal, and volunteer experience)
  • Experience welding or a welding certificate (consider professional, personal, and volunteer experience)
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.
  • Must have reliable transportation for commuting to work.
  • Willingness and ability to work around large equipment such as railcars, locomotives, and cranes.
  • Must agree to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, safety boots, hard hats, and hearing protection as required by the company.
  • Travel Requirements: Extensive travel may be necessary across Union Pacific's 23 state system, often with short notice.
  • Assigned to traveling system work gangs (work groups) engaged in track projects throughout the Union Pacific System.
  • Work takes place in various rural and remote geographic areas.
  • Work may be seasonal, influenced by weather, business conditions, or seniority.
  • Apply only to locations where you are willing and prepared to live and work.
  • Schedules may consist of five 8-hour days with 2 days off, four 10-hour days with 3 days off, or ten 8-hour days followed by accumulated rest days.

Union Pacific strives to attract all available talent. We are committed to creating an environment where all people can be their best, personally and professionally, as we remain a merit and performance-based company.

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 and Metropolitan Community College)
  • 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

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom