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Union Excavator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FOUR SEASONS MASTER

Lead Excavator

Elgin, IL

$30 - $60/hr

Lead Excavator - Residential Plumbing Location: Elgin, IL Department: Residential Plumbing ... Credit Union * Cellular Discounts Equal Opportunity & Reasonable Accommodation Four Seasons is an ...

Four Seasons Heating

Lead Excavator

Elgin, IL · On-site

$30 - $60/hr

Lead Excavator - Residential Plumbing Location: Elgin, IL Department: Residential Plumbing ... Credit Union * Cellular Discounts Equal Opportunity & Reasonable Accommodation Four Seasons is an ...

Walbec Group

Excavator Operator

Waukesha, WI

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

The Position We're looking for an Experienced Excavator Operator to join Payne + Dolan, Inc., a ... Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to ...

Walbec Group

Excavator Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

The Position We're looking for an Experienced Excavator Operator to join Payne + Dolan, Inc., a ... Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to ...

Walbec Group

Excavator Operator

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

The Position We're looking for an Experienced Excavator Operator to join Payne + Dolan, Inc., a ... Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to ...

Walbec Group

Excavator Operator

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

The Position We're looking for an Experienced Excavator Operator to join Payne + Dolan, Inc., a ... Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to ...

Walbec Group

Excavator Operator

Franklin, WI · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

The Position We're looking for an Experienced Excavator Operator to join Payne + Dolan, Inc., a ... Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to ...

Walbec Group

Excavator Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

The Position We're looking for an Experienced Excavator Operator to join Payne + Dolan, Inc., a ... Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to ...

Walbec Group

Excavator Operator

Franklin, WI · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

The Position We're looking for an Experienced Excavator Operator to join Payne + Dolan, Inc., a ... Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to ...

Michael Facchiano Contracting, Inc

Be Seen First

Vac Excavation Truck Driver

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

We are currently looking for a Vac Excavation Truck Driver to join our team for vac operations ... Prevailing Union hourly rate * Full union benefits and pension after 425 hours completed through ...

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All JobsUnion Excavator Jobs

Union Excavator information

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$13

$26

$41

How much do union excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for union excavator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do union excavator operators make?

Union excavator operators typically earn between $25 and $40 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $50,000 to $80,000 depending on experience, location, and union agreements. Skilled operators with certifications and experience tend to earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for construction and infrastructure projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Union Excavator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Union Excavator, you need proficiency in operating heavy equipment, understanding excavation techniques, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent along with union apprenticeship training. Familiarity with construction site safety protocols, GPS machine control systems, and the ability to maintain and inspect equipment are important technical aspects. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate with crew members and adapt to changing job site conditions. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and accurate excavation work, which is critical for the success of construction projects.

How much do union operators make?

Union excavator operators in Missouri typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, certifications, and project complexity. Overtime and benefits can also significantly increase total compensation.

What are some common challenges faced by Union Excavators on construction sites and how are they addressed?

Union Excavators often encounter challenges such as working in variable weather conditions, operating heavy machinery in tight or uneven spaces, and coordinating with multiple trades on busy job sites. Safety is a top priority, so regular training and adherence to strict safety protocols help mitigate risks. Effective communication with site supervisors and other crew members is crucial to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely. Union support and ongoing professional development also provide resources for overcoming on-the-job challenges.

What are Union Excavators?

Union Excavators are skilled heavy equipment operators who are members of a labor union, such as the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE). They are responsible for operating excavators and similar machinery on construction sites to dig trenches, foundations, and perform site grading. Being part of a union provides these workers with negotiated wages, benefits, job protections, and access to training programs, ensuring a higher standard of safety and professional development. Union Excavators often work on large-scale public infrastructure and private construction projects.

What is the difference between Union Excavator vs Non-Union Excavator?

AspectUnion ExcavatorNon-Union Excavator
CredentialsTypically requires union certifications and training programsMay require similar certifications but less standardized
Work EnvironmentWorks on unionized job sites with collective bargaining agreementsWorks on non-union sites, often with more flexible policies
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large construction firms and projects with union contractsMore prevalent in smaller companies or private projects
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for benefits, wages, and job securityCompared for flexibility, pay rates, and work conditions

Union excavators are part of organized labor, often enjoying higher wages and benefits due to collective bargaining. Non-union excavators may have more flexibility in work hours and pay but might lack the same level of job security and benefits. The choice depends on individual preferences and project requirements.

What is the highest paying union job?

Union excavator operators are among the highest paid union construction workers, with wages increasing based on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled operators who work in high-demand areas or on large projects can earn six-figure salaries, especially with overtime and specialized equipment knowledge. Certifications such as OSHA safety training and operating heavy machinery are often required to reach top pay levels.

What union do excavators belong to?

Excavators, including those working as union members, often belong to construction or heavy equipment operators' unions such as the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE). These unions provide training, certification, and collective bargaining for heavy equipment operators. Membership typically requires completing apprenticeship programs and obtaining relevant certifications.
More about Union Excavator jobs
What cities are hiring for Union Excavator jobs? Cities with the most Union Excavator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator jobs? The most popular types of Excavator jobs are:
What states have the most Union Excavator jobs? States with the most job openings for Union Excavator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Union Excavator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Union Excavator jobs are:
Union Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Excavator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Hydro Excavation, Sewer Jetting Operator

Hydro Excavation, Sewer Jetting Operator

Dave Schmitt Construction

Cedar Rapids, IA

$22 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description


Is your passion construction? Apply for a career at Dave Schmitt Construction.

Dave Schmitt Construction a Cedar Rapids, Iowa based union excavating and grading company is seeking a hydro excavation operator to work on our specialty crew.

The ideal candidate would have experience in the following operations: CCTV, hydro excavation, sewer jetting and cleaning, no dig pipe repair, septic systems, remote saw cutting and ground penetrating radar operation.

If you have experience in the excavation, grading and utility installation and are willing to learn the above operations you are encouraged to apply.
Qualifications:

  • Clean driving record.
  • Pass drug screen, MVR and background check.
  • Ability to work in a confined space.
  • Have Class A driver’s license with a tanker endorsement.

Benefits:

  • Union Medical, Dental, Vision and retirement benefits


Click apply now to apply via email today!
Equal Opportunity Employer

About Us:

Dave Schmitt Construction Company has been a cutting edge provider of excavating, grading, sewer and site preparation services across Eastern Iowa since 1964. Along with excavating we also specialize in the installation of underground utilities such as water main, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, sub-drain piping, hydro-excavating, and directional boring.


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