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Union Operator Jobs in Sequim, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Union Operator information

See Sequim, WA salary details

$11

$21

$31

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in Sequim, WA is $21.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $23.75 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 cities near Sequim, WA are hiring for Union Operator jobs? Cities near Sequim, WA with the most Union Operator job openings:
Union Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in Sequim, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,787 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Entry Level Operator

Port Townsend Paper Corporation

Port Townsend, WA • On-site

$26.87/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

The Position

The Port Townsend Paper Mill currently has an opening for an Entry Level Operator based out of our location in Port Townsend, Washington.

About Port Townsend Paper Corporation (PTPC)

The Port Townsend Paper (“PTPC”) mill is proud to have been in continuous operation for more than 90 years. We use a blend of virgin and recycled fibers (Kraft and OCC pulp) to produce Kraft pulp, paper, containerboard, medium and market pulp. We have built a strong and loyal customer base by developing and nurturing strategic partnership-style relationships.

At PTPC we believe that a healthy and safe work environment is fundamental to the success of all employees. We put that belief into practice every day by managing risk and building safety reliability into our processes and procedures. Engaging and empowering our workforce to maintain world-class safety performance is the pathway to achieving operational excellence. We also strive to preserve the environment, be good neighbors, and remain a valued member of the local community. Many of our employees have enjoyed working at PTPC for the greater part of their careers; we have employees with 20, 25, 30, even 35 years of service.

Job Responsibilities

  • Digesters – Loading pressure vessels with wood chips. Includes using a large wrench to tighten digester lids, moving/rodding hoppers to ensure flow of wood chips and clean-up of dust. 
  • Fiber Supply – Clean-up of dust/bark/chips. Operation of 988 CAT loader and skid steere. 
  • Power & Recovery – Clean-up of dust/bark, unplugging conveyor chutes, operating boiler valves, operating skid steere. 
  • Paper Machines – Clear paper from under machines; keep areas clean and orderly; inspect and keep clear felt guide paddles and ropes in the basement.
  • Shipping- Ability to operate forklift safely.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to be trained and act as a competent relief for two jobs up the ladder in each of the departments within a specified training period.

Physical Requirements

These positions are classified as physically demanding and rated in the category of heavy lifting, moving heavy objects, and very fast-paced work. 

  • Ability to Lift and carry 40 pounds.
  • Stand, walk up to 12 hours per day, including carrying items on flat ground or up and down stairs; pushing; pulling; squatting; crouching; bending or stooping; crawling; kneeling; shoveling; sweeping; climbing stairs and ladders; and/or repetitive reaching or other repetitive hand use in any and all-weather conditions (sun, rain, sleet, snow).
  • Ability to work in extreme hot or cold temperatures.
  • Enter and work in confined spaces both walking and crawling.
  • Must be able to wear respirators and breathing apparatus.

Minimum Requirements

  • High School diploma or GED and 18 years old and over; no experience required; ability to pass the mill physical capacities test and drug screening; capable of being trained for Emergency Response.

Work Schedule and Environment

  • Steam, dust, mists, noise, odors, and temperature extremes.
  • Working in high places and confined spaces. Sharp instruments, moving equipment.
  • Environment is hot and dusty and/or cold and damp, depending on assigned area.
  • Shifts are 12 hours in duration (5am or 5pm start). 2 day shifts (5am to 5pm), 2 night shifts (5pm to 5am) followed by four days off (8 day rotation), not including any additional overtime. 

Benefits

  • Competitive salary starting at $26.87/hour.
  • Afternoon and graveyard shift differentials.  
  • A comprehensive health care plan including prescription, vision care, life insurance, and dental plan.
  • Flexible Spending Account.
  • An exceptional retirement plan.
  • Employee Assistance coverage with full services, including dietary and nutritional services, retirement planning, and support services.
  • 2-5 weeks of vacations, pending years of service.
  • 10 paid holidays, per year.
  • Free on-site parking.
  • Opportunity for overtime.
  • Union represented position.
  • Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the position.
  • Must successfully pass pre-employment and ongoing drug testing, as this is a safety-sensitive position.
  • Proof of authorization to work in the United States is required at hire.

Port Townsend Paper Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are a drug-free workplace.

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