ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Union Operator Jobs in Waukee, IA (NOW HIRING)

Union Pacific

Train Crew

Des Moines, IA

Description At Union Pacific, success is driven by our talented workforce. If you are passionate ... Coupling (connecting) equipment, aligning drawbars, operating remote control locomotives, applying ...

Union Pacific

Train Crew

Ankeny, IA

Description At Union Pacific, success is driven by our talented workforce. If you are passionate ... Coupling (connecting) equipment, aligning drawbars, operating remote control locomotives, applying ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... Union benefits including, but not limited to medical insurance and pension plan Take your career to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUnion Operator JobsUnion Operator Jobs in Waukee, IA

Union Operator information

See Waukee, IA salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in Waukee, IA is $19.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $21.20 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 cities near Waukee, IA are hiring for Union Operator jobs?

Cities near Waukee, IA with the most Union Operator job openings:

Union Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in Waukee, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,027 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Jarraff Operator : Indianola, IA

Indianola, IA

W A Kendall and Company LLC
See more jobs at W A Kendall and Company LLCexternal

$26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

The Mechanical Trimmer (Jarraff Operator) operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. Must have past experience operating a Jarraff for this position.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Always follow and help enforce safe practices and rules
  • Assist in preparing equipment and materials for each day’s work at Foreperson’s direction
  • Operate equipment as directed by Foreperson
  • Help maintain and repair equipment and tools used in operations
  • Assist other crew members in all aspects of daily activities and take a leadership role when required
  • Cleans up and disposes of all debris
  • Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, markers, etc. to protect employees and public
  • Keeps informed on new equipment, specifications, standard practices, operating procedures, and customer and company employee relations policies and practices.
  • Track and report mileage to Foreperson
  • Perform duties for storm work as needed

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Equipment Operators have no direct reports.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Prior heavy equipment operating experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

High School diploma or education equivalent preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES 

  • Must be knowledgeable about the daily maintenance and safe operations of all equipment used
  • Must possess physical strength and good balance to climb into and around mobile equipment
  • Must be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times a day
  • Must be able to work outdoors under varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions
  • Must be able to hear verbal instructions from a distance
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR
  • Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Must have good vision and be attentive
  • Must have and maintain a Driver’s License if hired for a driving position; must have and maintain a CDL and DOT Medical Card to operate any truck over 26,000 lbs.
  • Must be able to write, read and comprehend written and verbal job instructions/information
  • Must be able to maintain balance over uneven terrain
  • Must be able to communicate with others
  • Must have endurance necessary to perform duties throughout a standard eight or ten hour day
  • Must be able to travel out of town for storm restoration work when needed

Position requires employee to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job.

Work authorization requirements:

Must meet I-9 requirements.

Affirmative Action/EEO statement: Xylem Tree Experts and Kendall Vegetation Services provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, obligations, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement

XKIG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, including the ADA. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at 877-418-2999.

Benefits Offered:

This is a full-time position that offers health insurance benefits for medical, vision, and dental, as well as the option for enrollment in a 401K.

Paid Time Off (PTO)
Eligibility and accrual timelines vary by position with some roles gaining PTO immediately and others becoming eligible after a set period of employment. Details are provided during the hiring process and may vary for Union hires.

AI Usage Disclaimer:

As part of our commitment to efficiency and innovation, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools during the recruiting and onboarding processes. These tools assist with tasks such as resume screening, interview scheduling, and communication. All decisions regarding hiring and employment are ultimately made by our human team. If you have questions or concerns about this process, please contact our HR department.