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Union Operator Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Schnabel

Equipment Operator

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$31.09/hr

ROLE: Schnabel is seeking an Equipment Operator to assist with the building of specialty ... COMPENSATIONS AND BENEFITS: $31.09+ per hour Schnabel is a union contractor and as such, your ...

JBG SMITH

Engineer (union)

Washington, DC · On-site

International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 99-99A , ALF-CIO Primary Location: 1900 N Street NW WHAT YOU'LL DO * Supervise the work of subordinate employees. * Operate, maintain, and repair all ...

olive recruiting

Crane Operator

Manassas Park, VA · On-site

Crane Operator Olive Recruiting is searching for a Crane Operator for our client in the Washington ... Variable pending project demands (standard hours are 6:00 AM - 4:00 PM) Union pay scale and ...

JBG SMITH

Utility Mechanic (union)

Vienna, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.50/hr

International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 99-99A , ALF-CIO Compensation: 35.68/hourly Primary Location: 8075 Leesburg Pike WHAT YOU'LL DO Assist with the operation, maintenance, and repair of ...

Union Church

Lighting Director

Glen Burnie, MD · On-site

At Union, we exist for one thing - to unite people with purpose by helping them know God, find ... Recruit, train, and mentor volunteer lighting operators. Lighting Maintenance & Upgrades(10%) * ...

Union Church

Lighting Director

Glen Burnie, MD · On-site

At Union, we exist for one thing - to unite people with purpose by helping them know God, find ... Recruit, train, and mentor volunteer lighting operators. Lighting Maintenance & Upgrades (10%) * ...

Union Church

Lighting Director

Glen Burnie, MD · On-site

At Union, we exist for one thing - to unite people with purpose by helping them know God, find ... Recruit, train, and mentor volunteer lighting operators. Lighting Maintenance & Upgrades (10%) * ...

JBG SMITH

Engineer (union, 3rd shift)

Arlington, VA · On-site

International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 99-99A , ALF-CIO Shift: 10pm to 6am, Sunday through Thursday. Primary Location: 525 14th Street S and 510 14th Street S, Arlington VA WHAT YOU'LL DO ...

olive recruiting

Crane Operator

Manassas, VA · On-site

This role is responsible for operating mobile hydraulic cranes and/or lattice boom cranes to lift ... Union pay scale and benefits Responsibilities: * Operates mobile hydraulic cranes (all-terrain ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsUnion Operator JobsUnion Operator Jobs in Washington, DC

Union Operator information

See Washington, DC salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in Washington, DC is $22.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $25.05 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 Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Union Operator jobs in Washington, DC?

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

What job categories do people searching Union Operator jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Union Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

Union Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,272 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Schnabel

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$31.09/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Description
THE COMPANY:
Schnabel is a nationally recognized specialty contractor with over 65 years of experience in geostructural design-build and underground construction. With a portfolio of thousands of successful projects across the country, we are known for delivering smart, safe, and cost-effective solutions to complex engineering challenges. We specialize in advanced earth retention systems and other innovative geostructural techniques that create stable, lasting foundations for buildings, infrastructure, and other critical structures. At Schnabel, we combine technical expertise with a hands-on approach to ensure every project starts on solid ground.
ROLE:
Schnabel is seeking an Equipment Operator to assist with the building of specialty underground structures. Our goal is to find an Equipment Operator with experience operating small to heavy equipment. You will operate skid steers, mini-excavators, grout plants, pumps, silos, and other equipment. As you learn and show proficiency, you will be able to grow into larger equipment such as drill rigs and cranes.
Our typical scope of work includes installation of piles, lagging, walers, tiebacks, and braces for support of excavation projects. We also take on challenging projects with underpinning, grouting, tunneling, and unique structural support as part of our scope. Candidates having direct construction experience and familiarity with our company's traditional scope of work are preferred.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Be responsible for safe and proper operation of equipment.
  • Work with drill operators to load and unload casing and other tooling as necessary.
  • Follow all of Schnabel's safety regulations.
  • Complete inspection and maintenance logs, and documentation as required.
  • Clean equipment and maintain in proper working condition.
  • Clear and maintain a clean work environment without debris or potential hazards.
  • Work closely with site leadership to ensure that the scope of work is being met within a timely schedule.
  • Manage your scope of work appropriately to minimize job cost.
  • Always wear appropriate PPE, as assigned by job site supervisor.
  • Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and dust.

REQUIREMENTS:
  • 2 years of documented experience operating equipment proficiently.
  • Focus, stand, walk, kneel, climb, bend, and work from heights or within confined space during assigned shift.
  • Ability to pass pre-employment drug test.
  • Local and regional travel as required for projects.
  • Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds of materials over rough terrain.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Driver's license, reliable transportation, and a safe driving record.
  • Follow all safety procedures, use proper protective equipment, and help maintain a safe job site by identifying and reporting potential hazards.

SAFETY:
Support the company's safety and risk management objectives by adhering to established procedures, proactively identifying and addressing potential risks, and contributing to the achievement of safety goals through the use of metrics and continuous improvement efforts.
Don't hurt yourself, don't hurt anyone else, and don't let anyone hurt you; a simple philosophy that has been adopted at Schnabel. We live by this belief to provide a safe and healthy workplace for all our employees and subcontractors.
COMPENSATIONS AND BENEFITS:
$31.09+ per hour
Schnabel is a union contractor and as such, your benefits are made available based on your union affiliation. Through hard work and reliability there will be opportunities to advance within the company.
Schnabel is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is fully committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws. We are an E-Verify employer.

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