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Operating Engineer Union Jobs in Vancouver, WA (NOW HIRING)

Lodging is provided by Union Pacific. * Yard and local service crews work with an engineer, or by ... Coupling (connecting) equipment, aligning drawbars, operating remote control locomotives, applying ...

Writing operating and equipment maintenance specifications * Partnering with manufacturing ... union membership, and political affiliation, or any other legally protected group. EEO is the Law:

Produce precision-machined components to engineering specifications * Read and interpret complex ... union membership, and political affiliation, or any other legally protected group. EEO is the Law:

Machine Shop Operator

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$17.75 - $21/hr

Produce precision-machined components to engineering specifications * Read and interpret complex ... union membership, and political affiliation, or any other legally protected group. EEO is the Law:

Machine Shop Operator

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$25 - $31/hr

Produce precision-machined components to engineering specifications * Read and interpret complex ... union membership, and political affiliation, or any other legally protected group. EEO is the Law:

Machine Shop Operator

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$17.75 - $21/hr

Produce precision-machined components to engineering specifications * Read and interpret complex ... union membership, and political affiliation, or any other legally protected group. EEO is the Law:

Welder

Portland, OR · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and welding specifications to ensure accurate ... Union membership or willingness to join the union (if applicable). Benefits: * $25-$27/hr * Medical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Operating Engineer Union information

See Vancouver, WA salary details

$60.6K

$88.6K

$119.2K

How much do operating engineer union jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer union in Vancouver, WA is $88,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,700.00 and $107,600.00 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 are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer Union jobs in Vancouver, WA? For Operating Engineer Union jobs in Vancouver, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Vancouver, WA are hiring for Operating Engineer Union jobs? Cities near Vancouver, WA with the most Operating Engineer Union job openings:
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer Union job openings in Vancouver, WA 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 $88,607 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Refrigeration Service Technician (Union)

Permacold Engineering

Portland, OR

$27.50 - $35.75/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description

Service technician (Local Union 290) who performs scheduled and contract industrial refrigeration system maintenance at client facilities. Assists with industrial refrigeration system/equipment installations and equipment start-up / commissioning at client facilities. Works closely with service coordinators and sales staff to develop long-term client relationships. Prepares recommendations for client facility service / equipment replacement based on service visit. 


Key Responsibilities:

  • Executes routine maintenance, contractual planned maintenance contract work, and emergency service work independently or with apprentice assistance.  
  • Completes service reports for planned service and maintenance contracts as necessary for Service Supervisor and Coordinator follow-up action.
  • Support customers with troubleshooting their ammonia and synthetic industrial refrigeration systems, including mechanical and control system operation. 
  • Mechanically and electrically service refrigerant compressors, condensers, air units, and other system components and/or assemblies.
  • Ability to work with tablet-based service ticket software system to complete service tasks assigned in daily Work Orders (WO). 
  • Prepare and submit all time / Work Order reports daily, including accurate notes/reporting of follow-up needs and new materials required for follow-up work. 
  • Ensure Service Coordinator has proper information to complete Work Orders for client billing in an accurate and timely manner, including all receipts for chargeable or reimbursable expenses for the Work Order.
  • Communicate with Service Supervisors and Service Managers to resolve open issues at customer sites in a timely manner.
  • Be dignified, courteous, clean and in company provided apparel when working in / at client facilities or when otherwise interacting with the clients.
  • Maintain current licenses required to perform the specified service.
  • Perform other duties as required by service leads and service manager.
  • Lead the effort to develop and maintain a professional work environment based on the Kelvin Group core values of Safety, Integrity, Teamwork, Respect, and Excellence.

Requirements

  • Journeyman designation 
  • Minimum of 3+ years of experience in industrial refrigeration service.
  • Must complete all required safety and equipment training. 
  • Must possess excellent customer service skills and have a strong drive to learn and grow in the refrigeration service field.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, instruction manuals, operating and maintenance instructions. 
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. 
  • Good oral and written communication skills 
  • Travel up to 100% throughout the service region.
  • A valid driver's license


 Benefits: 

  • Excellent CBA Programs
  • Pay rate based on the local union base rate + experience
  • Generous paid holiday schedule
  • Paid time off (vacation + sick time)
  • Weekly paycheck
  • Quality vehicles, tools, & uniforms 
  • Access to Kelvin Knowledge Center, Kelvin University, and other learning & development programs
  • Voice of the Field program
  • Employee Referral Bonus program


EOE - Disability/Veterans Â