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Union Operator Jobs in West Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Physical Therapist (WV)

White Hall, WV · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Physical Therapist - Private Practice Hansel Union Consulting, Portsmouth, VA Hansel Union ... Be comfortable operating in ambiguous situations and in adjusting work expectations based on CDC ...

Hydrovac Operator

Huntington, WV · On-site

$14 - $18.50/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 ...

Maintain a good working relationship with Local Unions, trade schools, and skilled craft community to find and hire the most qualified operator candidates for Kokosing. * Communicate needed repairs ...

Hydrovac Operator

Huntington, WV · On-site

$14 - $18.50/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 ...

As an experienced Equipment Operator , after paid training , you will put your skills to work ... Join and maintain Union membership Our Commitment to Opportunity This is subject to change at any ...

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Union Operator information

See West Virginia salary details

$8

$15

$22

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in West Virginia is $15.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.03 and $17.12 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 West Virginia?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in West Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in West Virginia are hiring for Union Operator jobs?

Cities in West Virginia with the most Union Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in West Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,312 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Operator

South Charleston, WV

$15.25 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

At Dow, we believe in putting people first and we're passionate about delivering integrity, respect and safety to our customers, our employees and the planet.

Our people are at the heart of our solutions. They reflect the communities we live in and the world where we do business. Their diversity is our strength. We're a community of relentless problem solvers that offers the daily opportunity to contribute with your perspective, transform industries and shape the future. Our purpose is simple - to deliver a sustainable future for the world through science and collaboration.If you're looking for a challenge and meaningful role, you're in the right place.

About You and this role

Dow has an exciting opportunity for an Operator. This role is located in South Charleston (WV).

You can operate the assigned equipment or areas of the Plant. Can perform and report on operational related activities per the Operations Dashboard (OPD)-Tasks List. Utilizes discretionary time to enable sustainable performance results for the facility and operations knowledge and experience, to proactively operate the plant in a safe, reliable and optimal manner. Works with Shift Team members to efficiently anticipate and resolve unplanned events within the capabilities of the shift team and effectively escalates issues that cannot be resolved to the appropriate support roles. Requires broadened technical skills in analytical/scientific methods or operational processes to perform a defined array of activities.

Responsibilities:

  • Follows Operating Discipline policies, principles, procedures, standards and practices to ensure safe, reliable and efficient operation of assigned plant areas. Ensures adequate operating discipline is available for all planned and unplanned activities.
  • Operates and field checks process equipment. Monitors process conditions, key performance metrics, equipment and control systems and makes appropriate decisions to maintain and/or achieve desired rates and conditions aligned with Plant/Site/Business goals.
  • Performs scheduled operational and related tasks and tasks that arise as a result of resolving unplanned events.
  • Works with shift team members and other shift teams to leverage skills and knowledge to balance workload ensuring assigned tasks are completed by due dates.
  • Conducts effective shift relief, as defined in facility specific operating discipline and tools, to ensure effective communication and handoff to arriving shift team.
  • Maintains qualification in assigned areas, per facility policy, and completes training goals in a timely manner. This includes using discretionary time to address skills and knowledge gaps.
  • Performs Immediate Response activities, as assigned.
  • Serves as a member of the site emergency squad
  • Initiates and documents preliminary investigations according to plant specific process/criteria and participates in formal and informal Root Cause Investigations for events involved in or by request.
  • Tracks and utilizes the plant's key performance metrics on shift that are applicable to the Operating the Plant role to optimize operations and identify improvement opportunities. Uses process knowledge and skills to make improvements in plant performance and operating discipline. Proactively identifies improvements and opportunities utilizing the facility improvement processes, appropriate management of change processes and communication tools.
  • Performs Autonomous Maintenance, including minor repairs and preventative maintenance, utilizing appropriate policies, procedures, processes and disciplines. Note: Subject to local agreements.
  • Trains, qualifies and serves as a member of the Institute Site Emergency Squad.
  • Crosstrain on all 3 Ethylene Oxide Ethylene Glycol (EOEG) jobs.

Qualifications:

  • A minimum of a High School diploma or GED.
  • A minimum of a 2 years of experience in Chemical operations or Manufacturing experience.
  • Must have a valid U.S. Driver's License.
  • Able to work 12-hour, rotating shifts
  • Able to work overtime as needed.
  • A minimum requirement for this U.S. based position is the ability to work legally in the United States. No visa sponsorship/support is available for this position, including for any type of U.S. permanent residency (green card) process.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Fork truck or forklift experience/certification.
  • Work experience with complex machinery, including automated systems.
  • Certification or an Associate degree of Applied Science in Process Technology, or Science related field (Biology, Chemistry, etc.).

Physical Requirements:

Able to meet the following physical demands of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation:

  • Lift, push, and pull.
  • Frequent bending, reaching, and lifting.
  • Stand and walk for extended periods of time.
  • Work at heights, climb stairs and ladders.
  • Work in tight and closed in spaces.
  • Wear all required personal protective equipment, including but not limited to respirator.
  • Work in an area of intense or continuous noise.
  • Work in an area with hazardous materials.
  • Able to work in all types of weather, including heat, cold, and rain.
  • Using hands to reach, grab, hold, etc.
  • Use foot controls.
  • Balance.
  • Do repetitive movements.

.

Your Skills:

  • Mechanically adept and able to apply fundamentals of physical chemistry to properly operate, maintain and improve the performance of the equipment within their area of responsibility.
  • Computer Literacy: Basic computer knowledge, including previous experience using Microsoft applications.
  • Interpersonal relationship: Possess strong Interpersonal, Facilitative, and Organizational skills and effectively interact with multiple functions and diverse individuals to achieve goals.
  • Decision Making: Demonstrate excellent decision-making skills and the ability to prioritize appropriately.
  • Effectively manages multiple competing priorities.
  • Troubleshooting: Demonstrate strong troubleshooting skills.
  • Communication: Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills and able to communicate with a very diverse population which is spread across the site.
  • Strong multi-tasking, problem solving and time management skills.
  • Leadership - Demonstrate the ability to inspire others and lead them through influence.
  • Able to work with independently with minimal supervision within an empowered team environment.
  • Demonstrate strong work ethic.
  • Be Safety focused.

Additional Notes

**The Dow Chemical Company does not offer relocation assistance for this position. This includes reimbursement for travel expenses incurred to and from test sessions/interviews. If you apply for a position that is not within the area in which you reside, you will be responsible for all costs that you incur. **

Benefits - What Dow offers you

We invest in you.

Dow invests in total rewards programs to help you manage all aspects of you: your pay, your health, your life, your future, and your career.You bring your background, talent, and perspective to work every day. Dow rewards that commitment by investing in your total wellbeing.

Here are just a few highlights of what you would be offered as a Dow employee:

  • Equitable and market-competitive base pay and bonus opportunity across our global markets, along with locally relevant incentives.
  • Benefits and programs to support your physical, mental, financial, and social well-being, to help you get the care you need...when you need it.
  • Competitive retirement program that may include company-provided benefits, savings opportunities, financial planning, and educational resources to help you achieve your long term financial-goals.
    • Employee stock purchase programs (availability varies depending on location).
  • Student Debt Retirement Savings Match Program (U.S. only).
    • Dow will take the value of monthly student debt payments and apply them as if they are contributions to the Employees' Savings Plan (401(k)), helping employees reach the Company match.
  • Robust medical and life insurance packages that offer a variety of coverage options to meet your individual needs. Travel insurance is also available in certain countries/locations.
  • Opportunities to learn and grow through training and mentoring, work experiences, community involvement and team building.
  • Workplace culture empowering role-based flexibility to maximize personal productivity and balance personal needs.
  • Competitive yearly vacation allowance.
  • Paid time off for new parents (birthing and non-birthing, including adoptive and foster parents).
  • Paid time off to care for family members who are sick or injured.
  • Paid time off to support volunteering and Employee Resource Group's (ERG) participation.
  • Wellbeing Portal for all Dow employees, our one-stop shop to promote wellbeing, empowering employees to take ownership of their entire wellbeing journey.
  • On-site fitness facilities to help stay healthy and active (availability varies depending on location).
  • Employee discounts for online shopping, cinema tickets, gym memberships and more.
  • Additionally, some of our locations might offer:
    • Transportation allowance (availability varies depending on location)
    • Meal subsidiaries/vouchers (availability varies depending on location)
    • Carbon-neutral transportation incentives e.g. bike to work (availability varies depending on location)

Join our team, we can make a difference together.

About Dow
Dow (NYSE: DOW) is one of the world's leading materials science companies, serving customers in high-growth markets such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer applications.Our global breadth, asset integration and scale, focused innovation, leading business positions and commitment to sustainability enable us to achieve profitable growth and help deliver a sustainable future. We operate manufacturing sites in 30countries and employ approximately36,000 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately$43 billionin 2024. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. Learn more about us and our ambition to be the most innovative, customer-centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company in the world by visitingwww.dow.com.

As part of our dedication to inclusion, Dow is committed to equal opportunities in employment. We encourage every employee to bring their whole self to work each day to not only deliver more value, but also have a more fulfilling career. Further information regarding Dow's equal opportunities is available on www.dow.com.

Dow is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and is committed to providing opportunities without regard for race, color, religion, sex, including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity, national origin, age, disability and genetic information, including family medical history. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may call us at 1-833-My Dow HR (833-693-6947) and select option 8.