IUOE Local 478 has championed the rights of operating engineers, mechanics, and support personnel since 1911 — delivering better wages, stronger benefits, and safer job sites across Connecticut for over a century.
What began in 1911 with 18 determined members has grown into a powerhouse union representing 4,367 skilled professionals across every corner of Connecticut.
IUOE Local 478 represents heavy equipment operators, mechanics, highway and infrastructure workers, commercial construction personnel, and environmental project specialists. Our mission is simple: help every member build a stable, long-term career with access to good jobs, collectively bargained wages, rigorous safety standards, and genuine financial security.
Contractual safeguards, grievance representation, and legal support for every member.
World-class apprenticeship programs and continuing education to keep you at the top.
A statewide brotherhood and sisterhood rooted in solidarity since our founding.
Collectively bargained agreements that set the standard for wages and working conditions.
From highways to high-rises, underground utilities to environmental remediation — Local 478 members power Connecticut's infrastructure.
Operating bulldozers, excavators, cranes, and graders on Connecticut's most demanding construction projects.
Keeping heavy equipment running safely and efficiently with skilled diagnostic and repair expertise.
Building and maintaining the roads, bridges, and public works that connect every Connecticut community.
Operating equipment on commercial, residential, and industrial development projects statewide.
Skilled professionals supporting project logistics, safety, and operations from start to finish.
Certified operators handling remediation, environmental clean-up, and sustainable infrastructure work.
IUOE Local 478 members enjoy a comprehensive benefits package negotiated on your behalf — covering your health, your family, and your future.
Full medical, hospital, and surgical coverage for you and your family through the IUOE Local 478 Health & Welfare Fund.
A traditional defined-benefit pension plan that guarantees a monthly retirement income based on your years of service.
A portable, self-directed annuity fund that grows with your career and provides flexibility for your retirement strategy.
Group life insurance protection for members and optional supplemental coverage to protect the people who matter most.
Supplemental Unemployment Benefits (SUB) provide critical income support during layoff periods in construction's seasonal cycles.
Expert representation in contract negotiations, grievance hearings, and workplace disputes — your rights, always protected.
IUOE Local 478's apprenticeship programs are among the finest trade programs in New England. Whether you're starting fresh or advancing your career, we have a pathway for you.
Apprentices earn competitive wages from day one while mastering their trade.
The union and contractors fund your training — no student loans, no tuition debt.
Full support for crane operator, equipment, and specialty certifications required by Connecticut.
Training sites and job placements available across all Connecticut regions.
Train on dozers, excavators, cranes, scrapers, and more. Become a certified, high-demand heavy equipment operator.
Master heavy equipment maintenance and repair. Diesel mechanics, hydraulics, electrical systems, and advanced diagnostics.
Local 478 connects members with quality union construction jobs across Connecticut. Current demand by project type:
CTDOT projects, I-95 corridor, bridge rehabilitation, and major highway expansion across the state.
88% capacityNew construction, site preparation, and foundation work for commercial and residential developments statewide.
82% capacityWater, sewer, gas, and fiber infrastructure installation and rehabilitation projects throughout Connecticut.
74% capacityBrownfield remediation, coastal restoration, and environmental infrastructure projects with certified operators.
68% capacitySkilled mechanics needed for field service, equipment yard, and fleet maintenance positions across Connecticut.
91% capacitySpeak with a dispatcher about current job openings and placement opportunities.
(203) 288-0217Mon–Fri · 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Partnering with IUOE Local 478 gives your company access to the best-trained, most reliable heavy equipment workforce in Connecticut.
Every operator and mechanic arrives certified, trained, and ready to contribute from day one.
Scale your workforce up or down as project needs change — no lengthy recruiting cycles.
Access a continuous supply of motivated new workers through our joint apprenticeship program.
Union-trained workers mean fewer accidents, better compliance, and lower workers' comp claims.
Local 478 fights for members in the workplace, in Hartford, and in every community we serve.
We fight to protect prevailing wage laws that guarantee fair pay on every Connecticut public works project.
Rigorous safety standards, OSHA compliance support, and on-site representation keep our members safe every day.
Our political action committee advocates for pro-worker legislation and candidates in Hartford and Washington.
Unemployment support, retiree services, benefit FAQs, and counseling for members in need — because solidarity is real.
Monthly meetings, community events, and brotherhood activities that strengthen our union family statewide.
Partnering with the state, contractors, and schools to build Connecticut's construction workforce for the future.
Contract
After months of negotiation, members voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new three-year master agreement that delivers meaningful wage increases, improved health benefits, and enhanced pension contributions.
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Apprenticeship
Applications for our Operator and Mechanic apprenticeship pathways are now open through August 1, 2025.
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Advocacy
Local 478's Business Manager delivered powerful testimony in Hartford on proposed prevailing wage reforms.
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Meeting
All members are encouraged to attend the March general meeting to vote on current initiatives and union business.
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Community
Local 478 welcomes all retired members to the annual luncheon celebrating their lifetime of service and contribution.
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IUOE Local 478 is a proud affiliate of the International Union of Operating Engineers.
Three ways to connect with Connecticut's premier operating engineers union.
Already working in the trades? Transfer your membership or join Local 478 as a new member and immediately access all benefits and protections.
No experience required. Our JATC apprenticeship programs take motivated individuals and build exceptional union tradespeople — at no cost to you.
Contractors and construction companies — partner with Local 478 to access the best-trained heavy equipment workforce in Connecticut.
Questions about membership, apprenticeship, dispatch, or benefits? We're here to help.
3 Crows Mill Road
Hamden, CT 06514
Monday–Friday
7:00 AM – 3:30 PM