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Union Operator Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Johnston, RI · 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 ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Johnston, RI · On-site

Salary: Union wages and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager. What We're ... Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments ...

Badger Daylighting

Assistant Operator

Johnston, RI · On-site

$38.15/hr

Union wages and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager with starting rate of $38.15/hour. Responsibilities What You'll Be Doing: * Assisting in operating hydrovac equipment and ...

Badger Daylighting

Assistant Operator

Johnston, RI · On-site

$38.15/hr

Salary: Union wages and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager with starting ... Assisting in operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Johnston, RI

$17.75 - $24/hr

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

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Johnston, RI · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

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 ...

PPL

System Operator I-Gas Control

Cumberland, RI · On-site

Gas Control Operators recently voted to join UWUA Local 310B, and negotiations between the union and the Company are pending. Accordingly, the responsibilities, rate of pay, benefits, and other terms ...

South Kingstown, Town of (RI)

$54K - $58K/yr

Schedule This 40 hour a week C94 Union non exempt position works a regular schedule of 7:00 am to 3 ... operating methods of a variety of heavy on and off-road equipment used in excavating, loading ...

thyssenkrupp

Slitter Machine Operator 1st shift- TIR

Smithfield, RI · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Slitter Operator - 1st Shift | Metals Industry | Smithfield, RI Location: Smithfield, Rhode Island ... Benefits may vary based on job, country, union role, and/or company segment. Please work with your ...

O'Reilly Auto Parts

Delivery Specialist - Union GBA

Cranston, RI

$17.04 - $22.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsible for keeping vehicles clean, maintained, and completing daily vehicle inspections prior to operating. Responsible for keeping delivery vehicles, keys, fuel/fleet credit cards, hand-held ...

O'Reilly Auto Parts

Delivery Specialist - Union GBA

Barrington, RI · On-site

$18.60 - $24.60/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsible for keeping vehicles clean, maintained, and completing daily vehicle inspections prior to operating. Responsible for keeping delivery vehicles, keys, fuel/fleet credit cards, hand-held ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsUnion Operator JobsUnion Operator Jobs in Rhode Island

Union Operator information

See Rhode Island salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in Rhode Island is $19.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Rhode Island are:

What job categories do people searching Union Operator jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Union Operator jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Union Operator jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Union Operator job openings:

Union Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,875 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

Badger Daylighting

Johnston, RI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 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.
Salary: 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 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

Qualifications
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.

Apply