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Union Operator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

The Operating Engineer/Journeyman is responsible for managing the installation of upgrades for ... Union Scale BrightView offers a suite or health, wellness, and financial benefits to full-time team ...

Bucket Operator - Union - NTS

Piscataway, NJ · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Bucket Operator Job Type : Full-Time +, Non-Exempt Pay : Competitive, Hourly Benefits: * Benefits ... Must be willing to join local union and pay union dues. Education & Experience * High School ...

Curb Machine Operator

Verona, NJ · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is available to assist in that process as needed. * Successfully pass or has passed the Operators Union aptitude ...

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Union Operator information

See New York salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in New York is $21.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $24.18 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 New York? The most popular types of Operator jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Union Operator jobs? Cities in New York with the most Union Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,663 per year, or $22 per hour.

Union Operating Engineer

BrightView

Elmsford, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


BrightView Landscapes rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 36 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

The Best Teams are Created and Maintained Here.
Job Summary
  • The Operating Engineer/Journeyman is responsible for managing the installation of upgrades for commercial landscape maintenance accounts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Use hand and/or power tools or equipment to perform a wide range of landscape and irrigation duties
  • Install sprinklers
  • Build irrigation components such as Remote-Control Valve assemblies, Swing Joints, Back Flow devices, etc.
  • Read Blueprints and plan details
  • Use hand equipment with mechanized moving blades such as gas-powered shears
  • Use manual hand tools such as shovels

Education and Experience:
  • No education required.
  • 6 months of operating engineer apprentice experience.

Physical Demands/Requirements:
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Be at least 18 years old (21 if operating company provided vehicles)
  • Possess strong stamina and have the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions including extreme heat and cold.
  • Able to safely operate landscaping equipment (e.g., mowers, trimmers, blowers, edgers).
  • Able to bend, stoop, kneel, twist, stand, walk continuously throughout the day and perform repetitive motions for extended periods.
  • Able to perform manual labor using a variety of hand tools (e.g. shovels, rakes)
  • You are able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g., safety shoes, high-visibility clothing, hand protection, eye protection, hearing protection, head protection)
  • Landscapers who will be operating a BrightView fleet vehicle are required to have a valid driver's license and meet company standards as it relates motor vehicle performance identified on a state issued motor vehicle record check.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends or holidays if needed.
  • Ability to maintain, in your possession at all times, required medications to address any known allergic reactions should they occur.

Work Environment:
  • Work from elevated heights such as an 8" A-frame ladder
  • Ability to work outdoors/indoors in moderate to extreme weather conditions (e.g., temperatures more than 100°F, temperatures below 32°F, various levels of humidity)
  • Ability to work in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
  • Work outdoors near automotive traffic, bodies of water, fumes, dust, mechanical and/or electrical hazards.
  • Ability to work in environments where extended periods of loud noise are present.
  • Ability to work in environments where exposure to allergens such as pollen and rag weed, insects such as bees and spiders and reptiles such as lizards and snakes.

BrightView Landscapes, LLC is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.
This job description is subject to change at any time.
Compensation Pay Range:
Union Scale
BrightView offers a suite or health, wellness, and financial benefits to full-time team members. Benefits offerings for full-time team members include medical, dental, and vision insurance, ancillary and voluntary products, a 401k savings plan with employer contributions, and 6 to 9 company paid holidays per year. Employees may also be eligible to receive paid time off for vacation and/or sick leave, tuition reimbursement, and/or potential variable pay opportunities based on position and performance. A detailed benefits package will be provided during the interview process.
It's Not Just a Team. It's One BrightView.

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