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Union Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Newton, IA

Union wages and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager. Badger Infrastructure ... Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Newton, IA · On-site

Union wages and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager. Responsibilities What You'll Be Doing: * Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working ...

CaptiveAire

Machine Operator

West Union, IA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Due to growth, we are currently hiring Press Brake/Shear Operators at our West Union, IA manufacturing facility. Join us if you are interested in working in a fast paced, financially sound, climate ...

ONEOK, Inc

Operator USW

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

JOB SUMMARY Operator USW in Des Moines, IA Performs activities related to the operation and ... Union posting guidelines outlined in the current collective bargaining agreement will be applied ...

Oneok, Inc.

Operator USW

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

JOB SUMMARY Operator USW in Des Moines, IA Performs activities related to the operation and ... Union posting guidelines outlined in the current collective bargaining agreement will be applied ...

Access Dubuque

Heavy Equipment Operator

Dubuque, IA

Benefits administered through the Operating Engineers union. Interested candidates can apply in person at our office, 205 Stone Valley Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at www.pci-dbq.com Primary ...

Kraft Heinz

On Pack Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$23.58/hr

OnPack Operator - 3rd Shift: 10:30pm-7:00am Location: Kraft Heinz - Cedar Rapids 4601 C Street SW ... Union Facility with approximately 200 hourly staff members which are a mix of temporary and ...

Kraft Heinz

OnPack Operator 3rd Shift

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$23.58/hr

OnPack Operator - 3rd Shift-10:30pm-7:00am Location: Kraft Heinz - Cedar Rapids 4601 C Street SW ... Union Facility with approximately 200 hourly staff members which are a mix of temporary and ...

FXI

Saw Operator

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Our Dubuque, Iowa facility is a union manufacturing plant with approximately 10 employees. The site specializes in fabricating polyurethane foam products for a variety of industrial and specialty ...

Union Pacific

Welder Helper - Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

For this position, you will be required to become a Union Pacific certified driver during your ... Skilled in operating heavy equipment such as construction or farm machinery, with relevant ...

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Union Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in Iowa is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $20.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Operator jobs in Iowa? For Union Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Union Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Union Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Union Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Union Operator job openings:
Union Operator jobs near you

Hydrovac Operator

Badger Daylighting

Newton, IA

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Are you enthusiastic about safe excavation and skilled in operating hydrovac equipment? Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various construction projects. If you're detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and ready to be part of essential infrastructure work, apply now to join our dedicated team.

 
Union wages and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager.
 
Badger Infrastructure Solutions is the industry leader in non-destructive hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse customer base, including oil and gas, energy, industrial, construction, transportation and other markets, as well as numerous government agencies within Canada and the United States. 

We hire great people from a wide array of backgrounds, not because it is the right thing to do, but because it makes Badger stronger. 

There has never been a better time to join and grow with Badger.
What We're Looking For:
  • Must have a valid Class A or B CDL
  • CPR/First Aid, Fall Protection and OSHA 10 certification (preferred)
  • Experience driving a manual transmission (10-18 speed) without automatic restrictions (preferred)
  • Ability to work variable shifts with extended hours
  • Must be willing to travel up to 25%
  • Must be able to lift, push, pull 50+ pounds and have the physical stamina for manual labor in varying weather conditions
  • Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience preferred
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
What You'll Need For Success:
  • Customer service focused and comfortable with customer interaction
  • Enthusiasm for being part of a safety-focused collaborative team
  • Technology adept
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided
  • Candidates must undergo a physical examination and complete pre-employment screenings such as a driver's abstract review and drug and alcohol test
  • This position is in a region that is covered under a collective bargaining agreement, the successful applicant may be required to join the union as a condition of employment
If you feel you don't have the experience listed above, but still think you are qualified for the job, we encourage you to apply for consideration.

What You'll Be Doing:
  • Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments, including confined spaces
  • Driving our hydrovac trucks (10-15% of total work time)
  • Attending safety meetings
  • Performing routine inspections and minor repairs of the hydrovac equipment
  • Preparing work areas by setting up safety measures and addressing potential hazards
  • Documenting and reporting all Badger, Federal, State, and Customer paperwork accurately and efficiently

Apply