ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Union Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Saunders Electric

Generator Operator

Nolensville, TN

$21 - $26/hr

Saunders Entertainment LLC. is looking for a full-time Show Technician/Generator Operator to join ... Supervise union crew and labor crew when on site and learn union contract for the job's venue

Titan International, Inc.

Calender Operator

Union City, TN · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

Tennessee (Union City) Titan Internaltional is seeking dependable, safety-focused Manufacturing Operators to support Fabric Calender, Wire Calender, Gum Calender, Shear Operations, and Electron Beam ...

Kohler

Manager - Distribution, Union City

Union City, TN · On-site

$113K - $175K/yr

Manager - Distribution, Union City Work Mode: Onsite Location:  Onsite - Union City, TN ... Experience developing and managing operating and capital budgets * Experience demonstrating ...

New

Fessler & Bowman

Heavy Equipment Operator

Smyrna, TN

Operators for Fessler & Bowman will perform a variety of tasks that assist in the completion of ... Fessler & Bowman is proud to provide non-union Team Members with the following benefits: * Medical ...

Fessler & Bowman

Heavy Equipment Operator

Smyrna, TN

Operators for Fessler & Bowman will perform a variety of tasks that assist in the completion of ... Fessler & Bowman is proud to provide non-union Team Members with the following benefits: * Medical ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Kingsport, TN

Monday-Friday, with seasonal overtime and on-call opportunities Type: Full-Time | Union Position ... Experience operating cranes (variety of experience welcome) * Strong commitment to safety, teamwork ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Kingsport, TN · On-site

Union pay + comprehensive benefits * Opportunity to work on diverse equipmentrare variety in one ... Experience operating cranes (variety of experience welcome) * Strong commitment to safety, teamwork ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Kingsport, TN · On-site

Monday-Friday, with seasonal overtime and on-call opportunities Type: Full-Time | Union Position ... Experience operating cranes (variety of experience welcome) * Strong commitment to safety, teamwork ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Kingsport, TN

Monday-Friday, with seasonal overtime and on-call opportunities Type: Full-Time | Union Position ... Experience operating cranes (variety of experience welcome) * Strong commitment to safety, teamwork ...

Barnhart Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Kingsport, TN · On-site

Monday-Friday, with seasonal overtime and on-call opportunities Type: Full-Time | Union Position ... Experience operating cranes (variety of experience welcome) * Strong commitment to safety, teamwork ...

Barnhart

Crane Operator

Kingsport, TN · On-site

Monday-Friday, with seasonal overtime and on-call opportunities Type: Full-Time | Union Position ... Experience operating cranes (variety of experience welcome) * Strong commitment to safety, teamwork ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUnion Operator JobsUnion Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Union Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$9

$18

$26

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in Tennessee is $18.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.10 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 Tennessee?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Union Operator jobs in Tennessee?

For Union Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Union Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Union Operator job openings:

Union Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,882 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Equipment Maintenance Operator Union, Poplar Sites

Memphis Wash Co LLC

Memphis, TN • On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Location: Memphis Wash Co – Poplar Ave (may also support Union Ave location)

Position Type: Part Time/Full-Time

We are hiring a hands-on Equipment Maintenance Operator responsible for keeping all wash equipment operating efficiently and minimizing downtime.

Key Responsibilities

Perform preventative maintenance and inspections

Troubleshoot and repair mechanical and electrical issues

Maintain pumps, motors, and wash systems

Respond quickly to equipment problems

What We’re Looking For

Mechanical aptitude required

Experience with equipment, automotive, or industrial systems preferred

Ability to work independently

Reliable and detail-oriented

Compensation

Hourly pay (based on experience)

Opportunities for advancement

Apply