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Operating Engineer Union Jobs in Smithfield, WV (NOW HIRING)

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Operating Engineer Union information

See Smithfield, WV salary details

$59.1K

$86.4K

$116.2K

How much do operating engineer union jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer union in Smithfield, WV is $86,410.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,000.00 and $104,900.00 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 Smithfield, WV are hiring for Operating Engineer Union jobs? Cities near Smithfield, WV with the most Operating Engineer Union job openings:
Process/Production Engineer

Process/Production Engineer

Westlake Corporation

New Martinsville, WV • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Westlake Chemical rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 92 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.
SUMMARY
The role of this position is to ensure health, safety and environmental (HSE), process safety management (PSM), and quality management system (QSM) standards are met in the assigned area. This position oversees the operation and maintenance of the department to meet internal and external customer requirements (volume and quality) and long term profitability. This requires close coordination and communication with the Operations, Customer Service and Mechanical workgroups. Accountabilities include Production and Cost tracking, Engineering support, Operational Reliability tracking, serving as a Project/Process engineering resource, and safety and procedural compliance/ enforcement.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Coordinate and direct operating and maintenance resources/activities to achieve safety, environmental, quality, production and cost objectives.
  • Provide input for weekly and daily maintenance schedules by generating and prioritizing notifications.
  • Review operating data (laboratory data, logbooks, log sheets, notes, Tiered accountability boards, etc.) and ensure actions are being taken to resolve undesired conditions.
  • Communicate instructions written and verbal for the Operators and Shift Supervisors
  • Create an environment focused on continuous improvement for safety, environmental, customer service, cost and productivity.
  • Ensure safety of the department by monitoring housekeeping/potential hazards of the department, enforcing safety regulations, and leading the department's safety efforts.
  • Ensure compliance to environmental permits, company policies and OSHA standards.
  • Provide input to production superintendent for annual operating forecast as well as operating, maintenance and capital budgets.
  • Identify and implement projects for operational efficiency improvements.
  • Communicate effectively with other plant departments and plant management.
  • Address customer concerns/inquiries related to products in the area.
  • Administer the labor contract in the department.
  • Promote teamwork, resolve conflict and build strong work relationships as well as provide training and coaching for his/her staff.

QUALIFICATION & SKILL REQUIREMENTS:
  • BS in Engineering discipline required
  • Intern/Summer Hire experience in an applicable chemical industry
  • Work well in a team environment, balance multiple projects, and be able to make effective decisions
  • Demonstrated Leadership Skills
  • Effective Communication Skills

QUALIFICATION & SKILL DESIRED:
  • BS in Chemical Engineering
  • 2-5 years of experience in an applicable chemical industry
  • 6 Sigma and/or Lean training/experience is beneficial
  • Experience supervising wage subordinates
  • Experience working with a union workforce and administering labor contract

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • This position could supervise up to 10 wage employees.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.
If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here. You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.

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