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Union Power Plant Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Sonoco

Machine Operator III Staves

Hartselle, AL · On-site

$23.83/hr

Ability to work collaboratively with all functions within the plant (safety, quality, maintenance ... S. or global), or if you are a union employee. Benefits * Medical, dental, and vision coverage for ...

Griffin Associates

Injection MOLD Operators

Arab, AL

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Visit Plant Before Accepting Position * *NO Rotating *NO Uniforms *NO Steel Toes * Paid Weekly ... Powered by ApplicantStack Hiring Automation Software Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

Griffin Associates

INJECTION MOLD Operators

Arab, AL

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Visit Plant Before Accepting Position * *NO Rotating *NO Uniforms *NO Steel Toes * Paid Weekly ... Powered by ApplicantStack Hiring Automation Software Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

Reworld

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

This is an entry level position that provides the opportunity to advance into Plant Operations ... and/or union contracts (if applicable). Pay ranges are reviewed from time to time and may be ...

Reworld

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

This is an entry level position that provides the opportunity to advance into Plant Operations ... and/or union contracts (if applicable). Pay ranges are reviewed from time to time and may be ...

Sonoco

Machine Operator Drum Saw

Hartselle, AL · On-site

$21.58/hr

Plant conditions are as follows: Non-temperature controlled, open warehouse which leads to hot ... S. or global), or if you are a union employee. Benefits * Medical, dental, and vision coverage for ...

Sonoco

Machine Operator II Tack & Nail

Hartselle, AL

$21.95/hr

Plant conditions are as follows: Non-temperature controlled, open warehouse which leads to hot ... S. or global), or if you are a union employee. Benefits * Medical, dental, and vision coverage for ...

IPEX

Molding Machine Operator

Huntsville, AL

$16 - $19.25/hr

... reacting to power outages. Provide breaks for other operators as needed. Store and/or move ... plant Demonstrate a commitment to safety, quality, and a positive work environment Physical ...

Aliaxis

Molding Machine Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... reacting to power outages. Provide breaks for other operators as needed. Store and/or move ... plant Demonstrate a commitment to safety, quality, and a positive work environment Physical ...

Yulista

Quality Control Supervisor

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals Intermediate computer skills ... Power plant license highly desirable Maintain Certifications as required to perform duties ...

VULCAN PLASTICS

General Worker/Operator

Athens, AL · On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

This is our entry level position in which you will work in many areas of the plant. A great ... Demonstrate ability to use power tools safely and hand tools with training * Works efficiently and ...

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All JobsUnion Power Plant Operator JobsUnion Power Plant Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL

Union Power Plant Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$12

$20

$37

How much do union power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for union power plant operator in Decatur, AL is $20.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $23.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Union Power Plant Operator vs Non-Union Power Plant Operator?

AspectUnion Power Plant OperatorNon-Union Power Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires state licensing and union-specific trainingRequires similar licensing but may lack union-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentUnionized facilities with collective bargaining agreementsNon-union facilities, potentially more flexible work conditions
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large utilities and unionized power plantsMore prevalent in smaller or non-union plants

Union Power Plant Operators often benefit from collective bargaining, standardized wages, and benefits, while Non-Union Power Plant Operators may have more flexible work arrangements but less job security. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, but unionized positions typically offer additional protections and negotiated benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Union Power Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Union Power Plant Operator, you need a strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with control room systems, SCADA software, and OSHA safety standards is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient plant operations and minimize downtime or hazards in a high-stakes environment.

What are some common challenges Union Power Plant Operators face and how can they effectively address them?

Union Power Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to unexpected equipment malfunctions, adhering to strict safety protocols, and maintaining efficient communication during shift changes. Developing strong troubleshooting skills, staying current with safety regulations, and participating in ongoing training can help address these challenges. Additionally, working collaboratively within the union structure ensures that operators have support from their team and access to resources for addressing workplace concerns or disputes.

What are Union Power Plant Operators?

Union Power Plant Operators are skilled professionals responsible for controlling, monitoring, and maintaining the equipment and systems that generate electric power in a plant. They are members of a labor union, which means they work under collective bargaining agreements that often provide better wages, benefits, and job security. Their daily tasks include starting or stopping equipment, troubleshooting issues, recording data, and ensuring the plant operates safely and efficiently. Union Power Plant Operators may work with various types of power generation, such as fossil fuel, nuclear, or renewable energy. They must also adhere to strict safety regulations and industry standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL? For Union Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Union Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Union Power Plant Operator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Union Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Union Power Plant Operator job openings:
Union Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Power Plant Operator job openings in Decatur, AL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,611 per year, or $21 per hour.
Machine Operator III Staves

Machine Operator III Staves

Sonoco

Hartselle, AL • On-site

$23.83/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Set up and operate multiple pieces of equipment in a one-piece flow process to manufacture wood reel components.

  • Troubleshoot assigned machines and processes and perform operator maintenance and preventive maintenance tasks.

  • Handle administrative duties promptly, including maintaining accurate and up-to-date documentation.

Sonoco rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 112 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Position: Machine Operator III - Staves Department
Location: Hartselle, AL
Pay Rate: $23.83/ HR + .75 Shift Diff
Shift: 2nd Shift (2-10p) with some OT

From a small family business to a multi-billion dollar global company, Sonoco has been changing the face of products and packaging since 1899 - all while keeping the heart of "People Build Businesses" alive. Our talented people are at the core of our growth, constantly reinventing the Sonoco wheel with brilliant solutions every year. Today we are a world leader in global packaging solutions with diversified operations in over 34 countries. We're extremely proud of our portfolio of brands, our achievements in sustainability and industrialization and the groundbreaking work accomplished by our people.

While reporting to the Team Lead as the Machine Operator III, this role performs complete setup and operation of industrial equipment in a Wood Reel manufacturing plant. A Machine Operator III is responsible for either operating and setting up 1 piece of equipment, a small grouping of equipment, or supporting a Production Technician to efficiently operate a larger piece of equipment that consists of several processes. The equipment being operated involves cutting, machining, and assembling lumber to produce components to manufacture Wood Reels used to package wire and cable. Common types of equipment used consist of some variation of Industrial saws, routers, nailers, spindles, scanners, stackers, and conveying equipment.

Responsibilities

  • Be able to set up and operate multiple pieces of equipment in a one-piece flow process
  • Be able to troubleshoot assigned machines and processes
  • Perform Operator Maintenance functions and support
  • Preventive Maintenance tasks
  • Capable of assessing the manufacturing schedule to minimize waste and maximize throughput
  • Able to develop and execute a plan that achieves production goals Has the ability to work per safety and quality standards
  • Handles administrative duties promptly, to include accurate/up-to-date documentation
  • Demonstrates good time management skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively with all functions within the plant (safety, quality, maintenance & management)
  • Responsible for general housekeeping (5S) of work area and department
  • Being reliable, committed, and quality focused is a must.

Requirements

  • Minimum 1-year of machine operating and setup experience in an industrial environment.
  • Must have fundamental technical knowledge of electronic sensors, pneumatics, HMI, mathematics, and optimization of cycle time
  • Extensive knowledge of personal hand tools and use them safely to set up, adjust, and maintain production equipment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, work well independently, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Working knowledge of our products and their quality requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. as needed.
  • You are reliable, have good initiative, are committed, and are quality focused.

At Sonoco Products Company, we offer a comprehensive total rewards package, including competitive pay and benefits. *Benefits listed below are for employees located in the U.S. Specific benefits and wellbeing programs may vary depending on your location (within the U.S. or global), or if you are a union employee.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services
  • Paid time off and holidays to recreate, rejuvenate and care for the health of yourself and family
  • Variety of company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we strictly prohibit and do not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.

What Sonoco employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Sonoco

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sonoco is a $5 billion global provider of consumer packaging, industrial products and packaging supply chain services. When collaborating with our customers, we leverage our deep knowledge of material science, our i6 Innovation ProcessTM, and our industry-leading packaging and services portfolio to create impactful customized solutions that build stronger brands. We produce packaging for many of the world's most recognized brands, in markets such as appliances and electronics, automotive, beverages, confection, construction, converted paperboard, fresh and natural food, frozen and refrigerated food, shaving, home, lawn and garden, medical/pharmaceutical, pet care, powdered beverages, recycling and snacks. Sonoco's operations consist of our global consumer packaging businesses (rigid paper and closures, flexibles and plastics); our display and packaging division (high-impact retail displays and packaging supply chain management); our industrial businesses (tubes and cores, reels and spools, uncoated recycled paperboard and Sonoco Recycling, one of the world's largest recyclers); and our Protective Solutions division (custom-designed protective, temperature-assurance and retail security packaging solutions and highly engineered components). From our headquarters in Hartsville, S.C., and more than 300 operations in 33 countries, we serve customers in 85 nations.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Hartsville, SC, US

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