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Operating Engineer Union Jobs in Marquette, MI (NOW HIRING)

Operating Engineer Union information

See Marquette, MI salary details

$58.2K

$85.1K

$114.4K

How much do operating engineer union jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer union in Marquette, MI is $85,063.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $103,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 cities near Marquette, MI are hiring for Operating Engineer Union jobs?

Cities near Marquette, MI with the most Operating Engineer Union job openings:

Infographic showing various Operating Engineer Union job openings in Marquette, MI 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 $85,063 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

$20 - $25.75/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Welder and Fabricator – Negaunee, MI 

Road Machinery & Supplies Co. is seeking a candidate to fill a Welder/Fabricator position at our Negaunee, MI location. You will be responsible for a high standard of quick response time to customers and will be required to have a high sense of urgency in prioritizing customer repairs.


As a member of the team, you will enjoy:

  • Work Culture – RMS is family-owned and treats their team members right. RMS values long term relationships with our customers, vendors, and each other. 
  • Career Opportunities – Experience a career with the support and encouragement to develop yourself and others.
  • Competitive Compensation Packages – Based on experience and other factors.
  • Full Benefits Package – Full Union (Local 324 Operating Engineers) Health Insurance - Company paid. Life Insurance Policy ($50,000) – Company paid. Long-Term Disability - Company paid. Generous 401(K) contribution (no employee contribution necessary), Accident insurance – Company paid for employee (option to add family.), Paid Holidays (8 holidays and 1 paid floating holiday per year), Vacation and Sick Leave.
  • Stability and Reputation – RMS has been in business for 100 years and continues to grow.


Responsibilities:

  • Comply with all safety requirements to maintain a safe work area for you and your co-workers.
  • Read and interpret project plans, blueprints and other written instructions or diagrams to perform assigned tasks.
  • Perform FCAW, GMAW, and MIG procedures with accuracy and efficiency.
  • Perform cutting operations using oxy-acetylene, plasma, and arc air methods.
  • Complete welding and/or fabrication to project specs
  • We are seeking applicants with a positive attitude, who want to grow with a dynamic work culture.


Qualifications/Skills:

  • High school diploma/GED
  • 2-year welding diploma or degree program from a community college or technical program or work experience directly related to Welding or Steel Fabrication
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Proficient at welding, plasma cutting, and arc air processes.
  • Fabricating experience
  • Blueprint reading skills.
  • Available to work full time 1st or 2nd shift with possible weekend work per project demands.


Minimum Physical Requirements:

  • Push/pull up to 50 lbs.
  • Lift/carry up to 60 lbs.
  • Lift bulky objects
  • Standing, walking, using hands, talking, hearing, neck rotation, trunk rotation, stair climbing, ladder climbing, repetitive bending, kneeling, sustained squat, forward reaching, overhead reaching, supine overhead reaching, crawling, high steps, fingering/grasping.
  • Working conditions may be indoor and/or outdoor. Noiselevelmay be loud at times.

 

About Road Machinery & Supplies Co.

Road Machinery & Supplies Co. is a distributor of construction and mining equipment with sales and support operations throughout the Upper Midwest. RMS is a multiline dealer, representing the best brands of construction equipment in the industry, including Komatsu, Epiroc, TCI, Morooka, JLG, Broce Broom, Gorman-Rupp, ASV/Yanmar, and Broderson.

At Road Machinery & Supplies Co. we understand our customers depend on our expertise, performance, and commitment to avoid downtime, lost production, and cost overruns. Our employees are committed to providing the services, technical support, and product solutions that let our customers complete their projects on schedule and within budget, allowing their businesses to thrive. Equal Opportunity Employer.