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Union Operator Jobs in Lexington, KY (NOW HIRING)

Craft Module Operator

Irvine, KY · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Union and Non Union Environment We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability ...

Saw Crew Foreperson

Lexington, KY

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Hire local union members when required and discharge crew members, if necessary * Provide daily reports to administrative personnel and superintendent on the job's progress and estimated completion ...

... sewing operators. Required Education • High school diploma or equivalent. Associate degree in ... • Union and non-union environment. • Strength: Medium-Occasionally, Light-Frequently • ...

Merchandise Associate

Lexington, KY · On-site

$13 - $13.50/hr

... operating procedures * Promotes credit and loyalty programs * Maintains and upholds merchandising ... union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours requirements are also eligible for: 401(k) ...

Retail Store Processing Associate

Lexington, KY · On-site

$13 - $14.75/hr

... operating procedures * Promotes credit and loyalty programs * Maintains and upholds merchandising ... union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours requirements are also eligible for: 401(k) ...

Retail Store Sales Associate

Lexington, KY · On-site

$12.75 - $14.50/hr

... operating procedures * Promotes credit and loyalty programs * Maintains and upholds merchandising ... union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours requirements are also eligible for: 401(k) ...

Retail Store Truck Unloader

Lexington, KY · On-site

$13 - $14.75/hr

... operating procedures * Promotes credit and loyalty programs * Maintains and upholds merchandising ... union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours requirements are also eligible for: 401(k) ...

Retail Store Truck Unloader

Lexington, KY · On-site

$13 - $14.75/hr

... operating procedures * Promotes credit and loyalty programs * Maintains and upholds merchandising ... union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours requirements are also eligible for: 401(k) ...

... operating procedures * Promotes credit and loyalty programs * Maintains and upholds merchandising ... union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours requirements are also eligible for: 401(k) ...

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Showing results 1-20

Union Operator information

See Lexington, KY salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in Lexington, KY is $19.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.78 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 Lexington, KY?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Lexington, KY are:

What are popular job titles related to Union Operator jobs in Lexington, KY?

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

What job categories do people searching Union Operator jobs in Lexington, KY look for?

The top searched job categories for Union Operator jobs in Lexington, KY are:

What cities near Lexington, KY are hiring for Union Operator jobs?

Cities near Lexington, KY with the most Union Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in Lexington, KY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,135 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc.

Winchester, KY • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Essential Functions of the Heavy Equipment Operator
  • Supports company environmental, health, safety, security practices and policies
  • Sorting and grading of incoming metal deliveries from suppliers and customers
  • Facilitating production efficiency and productivity while never accepting lower quality
  • Works together with other team members, and transportation companies

Required Skills
  • Experience with forklifts, trucks and heavy machinery
  • Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment
  • The ability to multi-task
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.
All U.S. applicants must be 18 years of age or older and all Canada applicants must be 16 years of age or older.
Radius Recycling participates in e-verify for all U.S. new hires.
An offer of U.S. employment by Radius Recycling or any of its subsidiaries is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen and background check.
All new hires must review and sign an Arbitration Agreement. This applies to all U.S. non-union employees.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Radius Recycling does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, marital status, disability status, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, age, prior industrial injury, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other protected status under local, state or federal law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.