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Union Trade Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Laborer

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Non-Union Trade Position Description:Perform tasks involving physical labor at construction projects jobsites. Essential Duties & Key Responsibilities: * Review jobsite needs with Foreman and ...

Non-Union Trade Position Description:Perform rough carpentry functions on jobsites as assigned and directed. Essential Duties & Key Responsibilities: * Fully comprehend scopes of work per plans and ...

About the Role: As a CBRE Union Mechanic, you will support the operation, inspection, and ... What You'll Need: • High School Diploma, GED, or trade school diploma with 2-3 years of job ...

If not a current member of this local union, then must meet union eligibility requirements . Preferred: * Trade school or secondary school * Manufacturer's training on commercial HVAC equipment Ready ...

If not a current member of this local union, then must meet union eligibility requirements. Preferred: * Trade school or secondary school * Manufacturer's training on commercial HVAC equipment Ready ...

If not a current member of this local union, then must meet union eligibility requirements. Preferred: * Trade school or secondary school * Manufacturer's training on commercial HVAC equipment Ready ...

Lead a team of skilled trades and production employees. * Achieve safety, quality, production, and ... Experience supervising union (UAW) employees. * Experience creating purchase orders and maintenance ...

Supervisor

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$33 - $36/hr

Lead a team of skilled trades and production employees. * Achieve safety, quality, production, and ... Experience supervising union (UAW) employees. * Experience creating purchase orders and maintenance ...

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Union Trade information

What are common challenges faced by new members entering a union trade, and how can they overcome them?

New members in a union trade often face challenges such as adapting to the physical demands of the job, learning industry-specific safety procedures, and becoming familiar with union protocols. It can also take time to build relationships with experienced colleagues and supervisors. Overcoming these challenges requires a willingness to learn, asking questions when unsure, and taking advantage of apprenticeship programs or mentorship opportunities offered by the union. Staying proactive in safety training and participating in union meetings can also help new members integrate smoothly and advance their careers.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a union trade worker?

To thrive as a Union Trade worker, you need technical expertise in your specific trade (such as carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work), typically gained through apprenticeship programs or vocational training. Familiarity with industry-specific tools, safety certifications like OSHA, and the ability to read blueprints are often required. Strong teamwork, reliability, and communication skills help ensure successful collaboration on job sites. These competencies are essential for maintaining high standards of workmanship, ensuring safety, and contributing to efficient project completion.

What is the difference between Union Trade vs Electrician?

AspectUnion TradeElectrician
CredentialsUnion membership, apprenticeship programsLicensing, certifications (e.g., Journeyman)
Work EnvironmentUnionized construction sites, industrial settingsResidential, commercial, industrial projects
Employer & Industry UsageUnion contractors, labor unionsPrivate companies, contractors, self-employed
Search & Comparison IntentUnion roles, union benefits, union jobsElectrical work, licensing, career info

Union Trade refers to jobs within organized labor unions, often requiring apprenticeship and union membership, while Electrician is a specific trade focused on electrical systems. Union Trades typically involve union benefits and collective bargaining, whereas Electricians may work both unionized and non-union environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right opportunities based on credentials, work environment, and industry preferences.

What is a union trade?

Union trades refer to skilled professions in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation where workers are represented by labor unions. These unions negotiate on behalf of their members for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. Common union trades include electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and welders. Being part of a union often means access to apprenticeship programs, job protections, and collective bargaining rights.

What are the most commonly searched types of Trade jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Trade jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Union Trade jobs in Iowa?

For Union Trade jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Union Trade jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Union Trade jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Union Trade jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Union Trade job openings:

Infographic showing various Union Trade job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Turner Construction rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 80 rated construction


Job description

Division:
Des Moines Main
Project Location(s):
West Des Moines, IA 50266 USA
Minimum Years Experience:
Travel Involved:
Job Type:
Regular
Job Classification:
Trade
Education:
Job Family:
Trade
Compensation:
Non-Union Trade
Position Description:Perform tasks involving physical labor at construction projects jobsites.
Essential Duties & Key Responsibilities:
  • Review jobsite needs with Foreman and Superintendents to fully comprehend scopes of work per plans and specifications to complete job assignment.
  • Perform physical labor to assist with jobsite clean-up, rough carpentry, site logistics, fencing, deck and platform building, protection systems, construction waste areas, and additional job assignments as directed.
  • Inventory supplies and give supply orders to Foreman for re-stocking.
  • Ensure Trade employees, subcontractors, and vendors to comply with Turner standards, safety codes, regulations, and jobsite security.
  • Display high level of teamwork, integrity, commitment, and leadership in daily operations.
  • Fully understand work instructions, project signage, and safety instructions from tool and equipment manufacturers and prepare and inspect tools prior use to ensure safe and working condition.
  • Participate in daily Pre-Task Plans, follow safety expectations for operation of equipment and tools, select appropriate equipment for performing work, adhere to safety protocols to perform work, and wear appropriate PPE (Personal Protection Equipment).
  • Perform selected demolition.
  • Participate in activities of subcontractors and suppliers.
  • Review project perimeter for security and cleanliness daily, participate in end of day clean-up activities.
  • Perform fire watch duties and construct scaffolding as needed.
  • Manage dumpster vendor schedule and maintain dumpster areas for cleanliness and organization.
  • Perform as spotter for heavy equipment operators.
  • Ensure security of equipment and work area while conducting operations.
  • Identify, communicate, and escalate problems and issues to supervisor for immediate resolution.
  • Track production of completed tasks.
  • Assist other craft workers in their trades as directed.
  • Maintain positive working relationships with customers, contractors, suppliers and other employees.
  • Other activities, duties, and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 1 year of general construction industry experience required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
  • Proficient knowledge of materials, methods, and tools involved in construction or repair of buildings or other structures, foundations, and framing
  • Ability to understand, and interpret construction contract documents, drawings (e.g., shop, structural, blueprints, sketches, and/or building plans), specifications, scopes of work, vendor tags, and project schedule to determine dimensions and materials to execute work activities
  • Knowledge of machines and tools for uses, repair, maintenance
  • Proficient use of related tools to complete work assignments
  • Knowledge of and able to apply arithmetic and basic geometry to work tasks
  • Ability to measure, read, and convey lengths with ruler or tape with high degree of accuracy
  • Able to think critically and use good judgment to solve problems
  • Ability to take direction, work independently with minimal supervision, and in team environment
  • Ability to apply active listening skills, ask clarifying questions, and complete assignments as directed
  • Clear and professional verbal and written communication skills and engage with all levels of teams, clients, business partners, and management
  • Reliable transportation required
  • Ability to travel using various modes (e.g., automobile, train, air) and accommodate night and weekend work as needed

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Performance requires vision abilities including close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and focus, and hearing abilities with or without the use of an aide. Performance requires physical ability to navigate work areas under construction, climb permanent and temporary stairs, passenger use of construction personnel hoists, and climb ladders, along with the following: Constantly: Standing, walking, combined standing/walking, lifting/lowering/carrying weights under 25 lbs., reaching below shoulder height, bending/twisting neck, bending at waist (forward & sideways), balancing pushing/pulling, repetitive motion, hand/wrist flexion extension, and exposures to noise/dust/chemicals. Frequently: Lifting/lowering/carrying weights 25-50 lbs., reaching above shoulder height, squatting, kneeling, climbing, and working on heights. Occasionally: Sitting, crawling, confined space hazards, and lifting/lowering/carrying weights over 50 lbs.
Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works on-site at the construction site where the employee is exposed to moving mechanical parts, high precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, outside weather conditions, and risk of electric shock. The noise in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. The employee is required to work in compliance with company safety policies, procedures, and applicable laws.
Turner is an Equal Opportunity Employer - race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

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About Turner Construction

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Turner Construction, headquartered in New York, NY, US, is a recognized leader in the construction industry. It was established in 1902 and has since curved its niche as one of the most reputable construction firms. Turner Construction provides a broad range of services like general contracting, construction management, design-build, and consulting. Devoted to environment-friendly building practices, it is considered a pioneer in green building and sustainability efforts. Their top-tier projects include Madison Square Garden, Yankee Stadium, and the United Nations Secretariat Building in New York City. The company's mission is to deliver an exceptional product by relentless commitment to their core principles – teamwork, integrity, commitment, and community.

Industry

Construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1902