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Operating Engineer Union Jobs in Claxton, GA (NOW HIRING)

Operating Engineer Union information

See Claxton, GA salary details

$49K

$71.7K

$96.5K

How much do operating engineer union jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer union in Claxton, GA is $71,717.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,800.00 and $87,100.00 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 Claxton, GA are hiring for Operating Engineer Union jobs? Cities near Claxton, GA with the most Operating Engineer Union job openings:
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer Union job openings in Claxton, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,717 per year, or $34.5 per hour.
Cable Splicer - Underground (Canoochee EMC)

Cable Splicer - Underground (Canoochee EMC)

Pike Corporation

Reidsville, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description


Position Summary: The Underground Cable Splicer is a skilled position in the construction, maintenance and repair of electrical underground distribution systems. The Underground Cable Splicer works safely while performing new construction, maintenance or repair work of energized and de-energized underground work.
Essential Functions:
  • Lead crew and represent the Company in absence of the Foreman.
  • Effectively conduct pre-job briefings.
  • Inspect the work of crew members.
  • Promote safety at all times.
  • Frequently work with energized high voltage systems requiring skill and care to protect the lives of themselves and others.
  • Capable of operating a backhoe.
  • Capable of safely operating and maintaining company equipment.
  • Able to identify primary and secondary voltage.
  • Understand grounding procedures.
  • Understand how to obtain a one shot on a recloser.
  • Capable of working in confined spaces.
  • Capable of properly installing and removing PPE and cover up.
  • Understand underground services, infrastructure and duct banks.
  • Understand how to phase out a line using phasing sticks.
  • Capable of planning safe work based on a job print or work order.
  • Capable of terminating different sizes of cable.
  • Able to properly inspect rubber goods and PPE.
  • Perform all other related work as required to complete the job

Requirements:
  • Able to perform rigorous physical labor.
  • Able to travel long distances on short notice, when required.
  • Must understand flag and tag procedures.
  • Understands confined space requirements.
  • Must demonstrate safe driving techniques.
  • Able to lift in excess of 50 lbs.
  • Must be able to work outside, frequently in inclement weather.
  • Able to use hand tools on a continuous basis.
  • Capable of being exposed to dirt and power on a daily basis.
  • Must possess knowledge in identifying underground utility locates.
  • Must possess knowledge of tools for terminating cable.
  • Must possess knowledge in troubleshooting underground circuits.
  • Able to identify unforeseen obstacles that would hinder safety or production.
  • Must be able to Switch & Splice.
  • Must be familiar with induced voltage.
  • Must possess knowledge of tools for terminating cable.
  • Must possess knowledge of all aspects of underground distribution.
  • Must possess knowledge of underground switching procedures.

Other Requirements:
  • 1-3 year minimum of experience is required.
  • Able to obtain a Commercial Driver's License permit within 60 days of employment.
  • A valid Commercial Driver's License is preferred.
  • Able to work for extended periods in various locations, when required.
  • Must be able to follow Company safety rules and all other Company policies.
  • Willing to work over-time when requested.
  • Willing to work outside of the normal work schedule including weekends, holidays, and overtime as required for the position

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to fingers, handle to feel; and reach with hands and arms.
Work Environment:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to a variety of extreme conditions at construction job sites. The noise level in the work environment and job sites can be loud. This position is performed in outside weather conditions.
Competencies:
  • Self-Motivated
  • Team-Oriented
  • Customer Oriented
  • Communication
  • Ethical conduct

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as requested to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled
Pike is a Non-Union Company
About Us
About Us
Founded in 1945, Pike is a leading provider of construction, repair and engineering services for electric and gas utilities, as well as telecommunications companies with a growing portfolio of turnkey renewable projects. We work with hundreds of utility clients across the country, and we continuously expand our offerings to supply our customers with the ideas, technology, experience, manpower and equipment to perform any job.
"Essential" is the one word that sums up who we are, the work we do and what our people mean to us. Each of our employees plays a critical role in ensuring that infrastructure systems are up and running when people and businesses need them.
Pike is a family-oriented workplace with a strong culture of safety, collaboration, innovation and exceptional customer service.
About the Team
Electric
We work with utilities across the country to solve our nation's energy infrastructure challenges, from designing new transmission and distribution systems, upgrading and managing installation of the latest smart meter technologies, and integrating renewable energy sources onto the grid.