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Union Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

F.H. Paschen

Union Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL

$71K - $96K/yr

Paschen is regularly looking for Union Laborers. Operating Engineers use different types of heavy equipment at construction sites. Please note that F.H. Paschen is signatory to a collective ...

CBRE

Union Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer, you will be responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for an assigned property.

CBRE

Union Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer, you will be responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for an assigned property.

CBRE

Union Operating Engineer 2pm-10pm

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer, you will be responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for an assigned property.

CBRE

Union Operating Engineer 6am-2pm

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer, you will be responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for an assigned property.

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Northbrook, IL

$17.25 - $20.50/hr

You will work with overhead cranes, forklifts, and cutting machinery in a unionized environment ... operators. * Use an overhead crane to move and load large metal coils into machines and to transfer ...

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All JobsUnion Operator JobsUnion Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Union Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$20

$30

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in Chicago, IL is $20.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $22.84 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 are Union Operators?

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Union operators typically do not earn $4,000 a week without specialized skills and experience; however, some high-paying trades like commercial pilots, offshore oil rig workers, or certain construction managers can reach or exceed that level with on-the-job training and certifications. These roles often require physical skills, safety training, or technical knowledge rather than a college degree.

Is being a union operator worth it?

A union operator typically works in industries like construction or manufacturing, where union membership can provide benefits such as higher wages, job security, and collective bargaining power. However, it may also involve union dues, strict work rules, and mandatory participation in union activities, so the overall value depends on individual priorities and industry conditions.

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.

How to become a union operator?

To become a union operator, you typically need to complete an apprenticeship program or technical training related to heavy equipment operation, obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training, and gain experience working in construction, manufacturing, or similar industries. Joining a union often requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and paying union dues or fees.

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 union job pays the most?

Union jobs in the construction, aerospace, and energy sectors tend to offer the highest wages, especially for skilled trades such as electricians, boilermakers, and crane operators. These roles often require specialized certifications and experience, and they typically pay higher overtime and hazard pay, leading to higher overall compensation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Union Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Union Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Union Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Union Operator jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Union Operator job openings:
Union Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,068 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Union Operating Engineer

Union Operating Engineer

F.H. Paschen

Chicago, IL

$71K - $96K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

F.H. Paschen has over 115 years of experience in the construction industry. You've driven on highways we paved, you've travelled through airports we modernized, you've commuted through rail stations we constructed, and your children learn in schools we built. But we are MORE than that. We offer MORE Versatility-as we work in any industry, offering any delivery method and service. We operate with MORE Tenacity-as we maneuver through tight schedules, spaces, and budgets. We provide MORE Ingenuity-by creating solutions to solve your greatest challenges. And we perform with MORE Pride-in focusing on safety and quality, and in offering more opportunities for our communities and diverse populations to build with us. We deliver far more than just on time and on budget-we deliver with MORE Paschen.

F.H. Paschen is regularly looking for Union Laborers.

Operating Engineers use different types of heavy equipment at construction sites. 

Please note that F.H. Paschen is signatory to a collective bargaining agreement that requires all Operating Engineers to be dispatched from the union hiring halls. In order to be considered for the position, applicants should contact the appropriate Operators Union to apply.

F.H. Paschen is an equal opportunity employer.  We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

If you require an accommodation in order to complete this application, please contact Tracy Tesnow at 773-444-3474.

Please visit the link provided for updated wage and benefits information.

https://www.cisco.org/wages/

F.H. Paschen logo

About F.H. Paschen

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Come build with us – at F.H. Paschen we foster a collaborative environment in the office and in the field. Whether your passion is in project management, operations, design-build, or the trades – F.H. Paschen will support you in discovering your career. We provide our employees with the tools, mentoring, and projects needed to make sure they are developing their own unique set of skills and abilities. Working at F.H. Paschen means you will be able to grow professionally, transform communities with our work, and enjoy rewarding challenges.

Industry

Construction

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1975

Social media

Facebook

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