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Operating Engineer Union Jobs in Kankakee, IL (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance Associate

Grant Park, IL

$16 - $22/hr

... programming. * Strong skills in customer service, interpersonal, oral communication, written ... Welding experience, ability to use measuring devices, forklift operator experience, and knowledge ...

Maintenance Associate

Grant Park, IL · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

... programming. * Strong skills in customer service, interpersonal, oral communication, written ... Welding experience, ability to use measuring devices, forklift operator experience, and knowledge ...

Maintenance Associate

Grant Park, IL · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

... programming. * Strong skills in customer service, interpersonal, oral communication, written ... Welding experience, ability to use measuring devices, forklift operator experience, and knowledge ...

Maintenance Associate

Grant Park, IL · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

... programming. * Strong skills in customer service, interpersonal, oral communication, written ... Welding experience, ability to use measuring devices, forklift operator experience, and knowledge ...

Showing results 21-26

Operating Engineer Union information

See Kankakee, IL salary details

$57.7K

$84.3K

$113.4K

How much do operating engineer union jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer union in Kankakee, IL is $84,348.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $102,400.00 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 cities near Kankakee, IL are hiring for Operating Engineer Union jobs? Cities near Kankakee, IL with the most Operating Engineer Union job openings:
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer Union job openings in Kankakee, IL 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 $84,348 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Maintenance Associate

Novolex

Grant Park, IL

$16 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 18 days ago


Novolex rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Company OverviewWhy Choose Us?

Novolex is a leading manufacturer of food, beverage, and specialty packaging that supports multiple industries including foodservice, restaurant delivery and carryout, food processing, grocery and retail, and industrial sectors. Novolex manufacturing and sourcing expertise spans a diverse range of substrates including resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum and more. We provide customers a broad array of stock and customized solutions with 120 product categories, 250 brands and over 39,000 SKUs.

Our Sustainability Commitment

The Novolex sustainability vision is built upon three pillars: our products, our operations and our people. Each is critically important to our growth and future as a business. These pillars form the foundation of our company-wide commitment to sustainability, helping us achieve our ambitious goals through our wide-ranging initiatives.

Job Description

Maintenance Associate|Grant Park, IL|Now Hiring

Compensation:

  • Starting Pay Range: $31.62 to $39.63 - Paid Weekly
  • $1.00 shift differential 

Available Shift:

  • 11:00PM-7:00AM (Sunday-Thursday)

TEXT TO APPLY NUMBER:

  • 928-668-6539 (928-NOVOLEX)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Must have strong electrical background. PLC, (Allen Bradley preferred), VFD, 120 to 480 Low Voltage experience.
  • Performs basic troubleshooting and maintenance work on automation equipment.
  • Performs maintenance, set-up and PM on automation/production equipment
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot equipment related processing issues.
  • Utilizes computer-based inventory system for generating reports to locating spare parts.
  • Perform Maintenance Connection day-by-day duties.
  • Assists maintenance/production staff as needed.
  • May assist in the training of other employees.
  • Performs quality work within reasonable time standards set forth by management in verbal or written instructions.
  • Utilizes mandatory safety equipment. Executes duties in a safe and efficient manner. Adheres to all Safety rules and regulations
  • Be flexible with schedule as needed.
  • Responsible for ensuring area(s) of responsibility are safe, clean and tidy.
  • Follows all Company established rules and policies.
  • Performs other related duties and assignments as required.

Qualifications:

  • Analytical, problem solving, and strong technical skills including mechanical, electrical and PLC programming.
  • Strong skills in customer service, interpersonal, oral communication, written communications, teamwork, judgment, motivation, planning, organizing, professionalism, quality, quantity, safety, adaptability, attendance, punctuality, dependability, initiative, innovation.
  • HS Diploma or equivalent; preferred associates degree.
  • 2 + years technician experience within Plastics industry.
  • Must have own tools and be able to use them safely and effective
  • Rebuild formers; trim presses, gearboxes, fluid pumps and grinders.
  • Perform material movement and facility utility piping.
  • Troubleshoot and repair all thermoforming and support equipment.
  • Perform daily, weekly and monthly PM's on all thermoforming equipment.
  • Perform light electrical troubleshooting and repairs.
  • Work off the maintenance management system.
  • Maintain 5S program.
  • Light welding repairs.
  • Perform other related duties and responsibilities as required or assigned.
  • Support plant product food safety management programs, initiatives, and objectives.

EDUCATIONAL AND OTHER SKILL REQUIREMENTS

  • Basic mechanical knowledge, two years' maintenance experience preferred.
  • Welding experience, ability to use measuring devices, forklift operator experience, and knowledge of pneumatics and vacuum. 
  • Highly organized, problem solver, strong written and verbal communication skills, able to handle multiple tasks and strong sense of urgency.

#INDFGR

Company BenefitsWhat You'll Get From UsBenefits

With safety as our top priority and a commitment to employee well-being an important focus, we offer comprehensive and competitive benefits that include medical, dental and vision insurance as well as a variety of other well-being resources focused on mental, physical and financial health. Specific benefits and well-being programs may vary depending on where you work.

Community Engagement

At Novolex, giving back to the local communities that support us is important. Our Focused Giving Program prioritizes support for organizations whose missions promote sustainability initiatives or address food and hunger needs. We also encourage facility level support of activities in the communities where our employees live and work.

Training and Development

We offer constant opportunities for advancement. From skills development to advanced education programs, training and development programs and courses are available through MyLearning. Programs include company and industry training curricula, support for formal education through the Tuition Reimbursement Program (Non-Union), and a Learning Management System that supports and enhances employee skills at all levels of the organization.

Novolex is committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices, including but not limited to selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, and compensation to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, handicap or disability, genetics, citizenship status, service member or veteran status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. Any individual who, because of his or her disability, needs an accommodation in connection with an aspect of the Company's application process should contact myHRservices@novolex.com.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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