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Union Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a Union Shift Operator (entry-level operations) to join our growing team. You must be detail-oriented with excellent problem-solving skills and communication skills, both verbal ...

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... grow into Union Operator positions . This is a great opportunity for individuals seeking long-term stability, strong pay, excellent benefits, and career advancement in a union manufacturing ...

Union Operating Engineer

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Union Operating Engineer - JLL Local 68 Shift Options Available (includes shift differential) Sunday - Thursday OR Tuesday - Saturday 3 pm - 11 pm OR 11 pm - 7 am What this job involves: As a Union ...

Union Operating Engineer

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Union Operating Engineer - JLL Local 68 Shift Options Available (includes shift differential) Sunday - Thursday OR Tuesday - Saturday 3 pm - 11 pm OR 11 pm - 7 am What this job involves: As a Union ...

Operator - Union

Hunker, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

This position will transfer to a union affiliated position with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 66, and therefore be the beneficiary of applicable union based offerings (medical ...

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Union Operating Engineer

Lafayette, IN

$66K - $90K/yr

Paschen is regularly looking for Union Laborers. Operating Engineers use different types of heavy equipment at construction sites. Please note that F.H. Paschen is signatory to a collective ...

As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer you'll be the hands-on expert ensuring commercial kitchen spaces stay comfortable and compliant. From installing and calibrating complex control systems to fixing ...

Union Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL

$71K - $96K/yr

Paschen is regularly looking for Union Laborers. Operating Engineers use different types of heavy equipment at construction sites. Please note that F.H. Paschen is signatory to a collective ...

Union Forklift Operator Arrow Building Center, Lampert Lumber and Lyman Lumber Companies, divisions of US LBM provides a wide range of building materials to construction professionals, combining the ...

Lunda Construction Company, a Tutor Perini Company, is seeking Crane Operator (Union) to join our project sites in the Black River Falls, WI; Waukesha, WI; Hilbert, WI; and Rosemount, MN regions.

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Union Operator information

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How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Union Operators face on the job site, and how can they prepare for them?

Union Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing project demands, working in various weather conditions, and coordinating with multiple trades on busy job sites. To prepare, it's important to stay up-to-date with safety protocols, maintain strong communication with supervisors and team members, and continually refresh equipment operation skills through union training programs. Being adaptable and proactive in addressing potential issues can help Union Operators excel and contribute effectively to their team.

What are Union Operators?

Union Operators are skilled workers who operate heavy machinery and equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, or forklifts, typically as members of a labor union. They are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of this equipment on construction sites, in warehouses, or in industrial settings. Being part of a union means that these operators have specific protections, benefits, and negotiated wages. Union Operators often must complete specialized training and certification to ensure they meet safety standards and operational requirements.

What is the difference between Union Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectUnion OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, union certificationHigh school diploma, technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUnionized construction and industrial companiesManufacturing and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Union Operator and Machine Operator roles share similarities in industrial settings, requiring safety training and technical skills. However, Union Operators are typically part of unionized construction or industrial teams, focusing on heavy equipment and site operations, while Machine Operators work mainly in manufacturing environments operating specific machinery. Both roles are essential in their industries and often compared by job seekers seeking similar industrial or manufacturing careers.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

Union operators typically do not earn $10,000 a month without specialized skills and experience; however, some high-paying trades like commercial pilots, offshore oil rig workers, or certain sales roles can reach that level without a college degree. These jobs often require certifications, technical training, or extensive on-the-job experience. Earning such income usually involves working long hours, high responsibility, or in hazardous environments.

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

To thrive as a Union Operator, you need a strong background in operating heavy machinery, understanding safety protocols, and relevant union apprenticeship training or certification. Familiarity with equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators, as well as knowledge of OSHA regulations and computerized control systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for coordinating with crew members and maintaining a safe work environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure efficient, safe operations and compliance with industry standards on construction or industrial sites.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Some high-paying union jobs, such as specialized construction or industrial union operators, can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with overtime, experience, and certifications. These roles often require extensive training, skills in operating heavy machinery, and union membership, with pay rates varying by industry and location.

How does operator union work?

A union for operators is an organized group that represents workers in negotiations with employers over wages, benefits, and working conditions. Union members typically pay dues and may participate in collective bargaining, strikes, or other activities to improve their employment terms. Certification and adherence to labor laws are essential for union operations.

What union job pays the most?

Union jobs in the construction, electrical, and transportation sectors tend to offer the highest wages, especially for skilled roles like electricians, crane operators, and heavy equipment operators. These positions often require specialized certifications and experience, and wages can vary based on location and union agreements.
More about Union Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Union Operator jobs? Cities with the most Union Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs? The most popular types of Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Union Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Union Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Union - Operator, Shift I

Union - Operator, Shift I

CHS, Inc.

Laurel, MT

$44.03/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


CHS Inc. rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

57th of 340 rated logistics


Job description

CHS Inc. is a leading global agribusiness owned by farmers, ranchers and cooperatives across the United States that provides grain, food and energy resources to businesses and consumers around the world.  We serve agriculture customers and consumers across the United States and around the world.  Most of our employees are in the United States, but today we have employees in 19 countries. At CHS, we are creating connections to empower agriculture.

Summary

CHS has an exciting opportunity at our Oil Refinery in Laurel, MT.   We are looking for a Union Shift Operator (entry-level operations) to join our growing team. You must be detail-oriented with excellent problem-solving skills and communication skills, both verbal and written. You must be able to form and maintain positive relationships at all levels within the organization

Compensation Data

Salary $44.03/hr

This is a union role. Wages are based on the collective bargaining agreement 

Responsibilities
  •  Operate and maintain a refinery operating unit in a safe and efficient manner.
  •  Continuously monitor operational conditions, as well as mechanical equipment, and make process and equipment adjustments as necessary to meet operating objectives.
  •  Troubleshoot issues through a collection of data, establishing facts, and finding solutions.
  •  Perform emergency duties related to process upsets, leaks, fires, etc.
  •  Must have a practical understanding of mechanical principles.
  •  Experience applying fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
  •  Knowledge of probability and statistical inference, fundamentals of plane and solid geometry, and trigonometry.
  •  Perform other duties as needed or assigned.
  •  Maintain and promote a strong safety culture for all employees, vendors, and customers and follow all safety policies, procedures, and regulations. Identify and communicate workplace hazards and correct or seek assistance in correcting unsafe actions or conditions. 
Minimum Qualifications (required)
  •  High school diploma or general education degree (GED)
  •  Proficient in the English language due to safety-sensitive wor 
Additional Qualifications
  •  Training or work experience in refinery process technology and/or refinery process systems
  •  Training or work experience with mechanical and chemical scientific principles 
Physical Requirements
  •  Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts (nights and days), including weekends and holidays.
  •  Ability to work overtime as needed.
  •  Ability to perform physical work in all weather conditions.
  •  Must pass all pre-employment testing, physical, drug test and background screening.
  •  Must be able to wear personal protective equipment, including hearing protection, Hard Hat, NOMEX, safety glasses, and respirator. 

CHS offers a competitive total rewards package. Compensation and benefits are subject to the applicable collective bargaining agreement.

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, wellness programs, life insurance, health and dependent care spending accounts, paid time off, 401(k), pension, and disability, subject to any relevant provisions in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and subject to the eligibility requirements for each benefit plan.

CHS is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disability.

Please note that any communication from a CHS recruiter would be sent using a chsinc.com email address. In addition, a CHS recruiter will not ask for confidential information over the phone or in an email, or request money from a candidate involved in an offer process. If you have questions regarding an employment opportunity, please reach out to chscareers@chsinc.com; to verify that the communication is from CHS.


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