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Operating Engineers Local 3 Union Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Candidates for this position must already be a member of Operating Engineers Local Union No. 3. We primarily employ carpenters, laborers, s and operating engineers. We are signatory to collective ...

Queens local 3 electrical contractor seeks 2 Electrical Revit Engineers. Local 363 role with 401k match. Job duties: * Designs and models electrical systems using Autodesk Revit for construction and ...

Operating Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$53.01/hr

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and is represented by the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 94. * All terms and conditions of employment, including wages ...

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Operating Engineers Local 3 Union information

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$24.5K

$80.8K

$167.5K

How much do operating engineers local 3 union jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineers local 3 union in the United States is $80,797.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $113,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Operating Engineers Local 3 Union?

Operating Engineers Local 3 is a labor union representing heavy equipment operators, mechanics, and other construction industry professionals in California, Nevada, Utah, and Hawaii. The union negotiates wages, benefits, and working conditions for its members, and provides training and apprenticeship programs to help workers advance their skills. Local 3 also advocates for workplace safety and fair labor practices, ensuring members have a strong voice on the job. Membership offers job security, health benefits, and pension plans, supporting both new and experienced operating engineers.

What types of projects and equipment might I work with as a member of Operating Engineers Local 3 Union?

As a member of Operating Engineers Local 3, you'll find yourself working on a variety of construction projects, including highways, bridges, airports, and large-scale building sites. Your daily responsibilities may involve operating heavy machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and graders. You’ll often collaborate closely with other skilled trades and project managers to ensure safety and efficiency on the job site. The union environment also emphasizes ongoing training and apprenticeship programs, which can help you advance your career and work on increasingly complex equipment and projects.

What is the difference between Operating Engineers Local 3 Union vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectOperating Engineers Local 3 UnionHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsApprenticeship, certifications, union membershipTypically requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) and on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial facilities, public worksConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageUnionized construction and heavy industry employersPrivate contractors, construction companies, government projects

Operating Engineers Local 3 Union represents a broad range of heavy equipment operators, providing training, certification, and union benefits. Heavy Equipment Operators are skilled workers who operate machinery on various projects. While both roles involve heavy machinery, the union offers additional support, job security, and standardized training, making it a key resource for operators seeking long-term employment in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operating Engineer in Local 3 Union, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operating Engineer in Local 3 Union, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent with completion of an apprenticeship program. Familiarity with machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and the use of GPS or computerized control systems is typically required, along with relevant certifications like OSHA safety training. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are soft skills that distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality work on construction and infrastructure projects, supporting both project success and workplace safety.
What states have the most Operating Engineers Local 3 Union jobs? States with the most job openings for Operating Engineers Local 3 Union jobs include:
Infographic showing various Operating Engineers Local 3 Union job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,797 per year, or $38.8 per hour.
Union Position-Operating Engineer Local 3 All Levels

Union Position-Operating Engineer Local 3 All Levels

Syblon Reid

Folsom, CA • On-site

$25.75 - $31.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Union Affiliation: Operating Engineers Local 3 (OE3)
Job Locations: Northern CaliforniaOverview
Operating Engineers in Local 3 are skilled heavy equipment operators, mechanics, and technicians who build and maintain essential infrastructure across public works, commercial, industrial, and energy projects. Members operate, maintain, and troubleshoot a wide range of equipment with a focus on safety, productivity, and craftsmanship, while upholding union standards of training, solidarity, and fair working conditions.Key Responsibilities
  • Equipment Operation: Safely operate heavy machinery such as excavators, loaders, dozers, graders, cranes, compactors, and forklifts to perform earthmoving, lifting, grading, paving, and related tasks.
  • Site Preparation & Civil Work: Perform excavation, trenching, backfilling, grading, paving support, and materials handling to meet project specifications.
  • Setup & Controls: Conduct pre-operation inspections, understand machine controls and load charts, and set up equipment per job requirements and safety plans.
  • Maintenance & Troubleshooting: Perform routine maintenance, minor repairs, and diagnostics; report mechanical issues; coordinate with mechanics to keep equipment in safe operating condition.
  • Safety & Compliance: Follow all OSHA/Cal/OSHA requirements, traffic control plans, environmental protections, and contractor safety policies; participate in tailgate meetings and hazard assessments.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with forepersons, survey crews, laborers, carpenters, teamsters, and other trades to maintain efficient workflow and meet schedules.
  • Documentation: Maintain accurate equipment logs, daily reports, and inspection records; communicate clearly with supervisors.
Qualifications
  • Proven experience operating heavy equipment or completion of a recognized apprenticeship/training program.
  • Knowledge of safe operating procedures, soil conditions, rigging basics (for crane-related work), load charts, and signaling.
  • Ability to read grade stakes, project plans, and follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Strong situational awareness and commitment to jobsite safety and union principles.
  • Valid driver's license; CDL may be required for certain positions/equipment.
  • Certifications as applicable (e.g., NCCCO or equivalent for crane operation, OSHA 10/30, First Aid/CPR).
Physical & Work Conditions
  • Ability to sit, stand, and operate controls for extended periods.
  • Work in outdoor conditions (heat, cold, dust, noise) and on active jobsites.
  • Lift and handle tools/parts; climb on/off equipment; maintain dexterity for precise control.
Union Commitment
As a proud Local 3 member, you:
  • Uphold union values of safety, skill, and solidarity.
  • Participate in continuing education and skills advancement through union training programs.
  • Represent the craft with professionalism on and off the jobsite.