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Union Operator Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Operator 2

Broken Bow, NE · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional ...

Operator 2

Broken Bow, NE · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional ...

Operator 2

Broken Bow, NE · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional ...

Machine Operators play an integral role in ensuring our machines are running at optimum capacity ... or civil union status, military or veteran status, disability, medical condition, genetic ...

Setup Operator (night shift)

Holdrege, NE · On-site

$20.25 - $24.50/hr

Responsible to produce quality products per the established standard operating procedures (SOPs ... civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or ...

Production Operator

Holdrege, NE · On-site

$20 - $24.25/hr

We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status ...

Production Operator

Holdrege, NE · On-site

$20 - $24.25/hr

We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status ...

Production Operator

Holdrege, NE · On-site

$20 - $24.25/hr

We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status ...

Production Operator

Holdrege, NE · On-site

$20 - $24.25/hr

We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status ...

Retail Banker

La Vista, NE · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Maintain high level of proficiency in operating all internal PenFed systems or platforms to include ... Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) is one of America's largest federal credit unions, serving 2 ...

Showing results 41-60

Union Operator information

See Nebraska salary details

$10

$19

$27

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in Nebraska is $19.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $21.11 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 is a union operator?

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Nebraska? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Nebraska are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Operator jobs in Nebraska? For Union Operator jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Union Operator jobs? Cities in Nebraska with the most Union Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,795 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Train Crew- North Platte, NE ($ 5,000 to $10,000 hiring bonus)

Union Pacific

Burwell, NE • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Union Pacific rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 64 rated delivery companies


Job description

Reference Number: 2201
Department: Transportation
Closing Date: Apply early as this job may be filled at any time.

Salary: 80,000 Annually
Most communications will be done electronically. Please check email, including spam folders, daily.

Hiring bonus details:

  • If you reside less than 300 miles from the hiring location, you are eligible for $ 5,000. You will receive $1,000 increments at 10 business days, 90 days, 180 days, 270 days, and 365 days after your start date.
  • If you reside greater than 300 miles from the hiring location, you are eligible for $10,000. You will receive $6,000 in your first 10 business days and $1,000 increments at 90 days, 180 days, 270 days, and 365 days after your start date.

Any Hiring Bonus payment(s) received will be paid back in full upon termination or resignation if requirements of employment are not fulfilled (12 months of service from hire date).

If you wish to solicit an employee referral for this position, please ensure the employee submits the referral prior to submitting your application.

Description

At Union Pacific, success is driven by our talented workforce. If you are passionate about contributing to a dynamic team and being at the heart of the railroad industry, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey. We are powered by our people, will you join our Train Crew team?

Train Crew employees are responsible for providing the safe and timely movement of customers’ freight. Previous railroad experience is not required as we provide all necessary training.

As you progress in your career, you may have the opportunity to apply for engine service (fireman’s class) and become a Class 1 Locomotive Engineer.

In your initial year of service, you can expect earnings of around $80,000. As you advance in your career there is potential for higher earnings, with the median annual wages of an employee with five years of service reaching over $100,000. Each employee is entitled to medical insurance that also covers prescriptions. In addition, the company provides vision, dental, life, and disability insurance.


What Should You Know

  • If hired, know that changing seniority locations and/or crafts (moving from train crew to mechanical or engineering) are approved based on business demands and may not be granted. Plan to commit to your craft and work location for a minimum of 2 years.
  • The training class is 14 weeks and includes classroom and on-the-job training. Attendance for the full 14 weeks and successful completion of all exams during the training period is a requirement for continued employment.
  • After training, you will work either road or yard service based on the territory you hold seniority and seniority date.
  • Road service crews may be required to work between two locations requiring them to stay away from their home terminal point. Lodging is provided by Union Pacific.
  • Yard and local service crews work with an engineer, or by remote control. They classify (sort) the cars from inbound trains and build outbound trains.
  • This is a seniority-based position, and you may be required to cover locations within the area you hold seniority other than the location hired. These locations could be a long distance from the location you were hired or from where you live. Lodging may or may not be provided depending on the collective bargaining agreement you are working under.
  • You may be required to work an assignment that is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • You will likely not be eligible for compensated time off during your first year of employment aside from paid sick days.
  • Temporary furloughs are possible depending on fluctuations in business volumes. Furloughs and subsequent recalls to work are based on seniority dates.
  • Union Pacific does not tolerate the use of drugs and alcohol (even for medicinal purposes). You will be subject to random drug and alcohol testing, mandatory testing for reasonable suspicion, and post-accident testing when applicable.
  • Refer to Train Crew FAQs for more information.
Accountabilities
  • Inspect equipment, locomotives, and rail cars to ensure they are safe to use or move in a train.
  • Perform tasks such as: Coupling (connecting) equipment, aligning drawbars, operating remote control locomotives, applying, and releasing hand brakes, riding rail cars, replacing couplers/knuckles and effectively communicating information to crews, yard controllers, and dispatchers via radio and/or hand signals.
  • Maintain accurate written and electronic documentation and prepare necessary materials as required.
  • Observe and comply with all railroad rules and regulations pertaining to safety, operations, and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by a supervisor.
Qualifications - Required
  • Applicants must have reached the age of 18 or above.
  • Valid driver's license
  • Clean driving record in the past 36 months, without any suspension, revocation, cancellation, or denial of your driver's license resulting from a drug or alcohol-related incident.
  • Must not have been involved in diversion or probation or pleaded guilty to a drug or alcohol-related driving incident.
  • Must not have refused to undergo a drug or alcohol test related to the operation of a motor vehicle.
  • Successfully complete an assessment in English before proceeding to the interview stage. For more information go to FAQs on UP.jobs.
Qualifications - Preferred
  • Experience working on 2nd and/or 3rd shifts.
  • Experience working outdoors in diverse weather conditions (considering professional, personal, and volunteer experiences)
  • Experience working with, on, and around heavy equipment in motion (considering professional, personal, and volunteer experiences)
  • Experience working in confined spaces and at different heights.
Physical Requirements
  • Candidates are required to successfully pass a Physical Ability Test (PAT) before being considered for employment. This is separate from the medical exam and will assess your ability to handle the demands of the job. For more information go to the FAQs on UP.jobs.
  • Normal color vision, enabling the detection and interpretation of various visual color signals and displays, as well as the ability to determine the speed of moving objects at both close and distant ranges.
  • Adequate depth perception to accurately assess the speed and distance of locomotives being moved in the service area.
  • The strength to push, pull, lift, and carry objects weighing up to 85 lbs.
  • The ability to frequently perform coordinated hand movements for grasping, placing, or moving objects.
  • The capacity to engage in physically demanding tasks, including occasional bending, stooping, and kneeling.
  • The capacity to bend, stoop, line a switch from one track to another, climb a rail car side ladder, maintain balance while riding a rail car at varying distances, walk up to 5 miles per shift on uneven terrain and occasionally work at heights of 12’ or more.
  • The capability to detect unusual sounds and smells during inspections and testing, and promptly respond.
Work Conditions
  • You may travel with our trains, sometimes spending a day or more away from your home terminal.
  • Work outdoors in all weather conditions, including snow, ice, rain, cold and heat.
  • Instead of working a standard 40-hour week, there are variable work hours and irregularly scheduled days off. Train Crew employees are on call, even on nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring company sponsorship.

What we offer:

  • A strengths-based, engagement-focused, and performance-oriented culture
  • Ongoing learning, development, and Educational Assistance (including little to no out-of-pocket cost for online and in-person courses at the University of Nebraska at Omaha)
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with 40% match up to 5% (contribute 5% and UP will contribute 2%)
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance, which are collectively bargained for through union membership
  • Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs

What Union Pacific employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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