About IUOE Local 181: Strength, Skill, and Solidarity

IUOE Local 181 has proudly represented skilled trade professionals across Kentucky and Southern Indiana for over a century. We are dedicated to advocating for fair wages, job security, and industry-leading training for our members. Through a strong union foundation, we empower Operating Engineers to build, maintain, and enhance the infrastructure that keeps our communities moving. Learn more about our history, values, and commitment to excellence.

Who We Are: IUOE Local 181 Is Here to Help You

IUOE Local 181 is among 170 other Local Unions in the U.S. & Canada that collectively comprise the International Union of Operating Engineers. The IUOE represents a broad spectrum of occupations. Therefore, our locals are normally divided into two categories: Hoisting & Portable and Stationary Engineers.

Hoisting & Portable locals represent members who usually work in the construction field utilizing heavy equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, scrapers, etc. The members could also work as mechanics, oilers and surveyors.

Stationary locals represent members who work in any variety of occupations including rock quarries, river terminals, steel mill contracts, building engineers, HVAC technicians, skilled maintenance employees such as boiler technicians and a vast range of public sector occupations. These locals also represent healthcare employees, including maintenance employees, biomedical technicians, emergency medical technicians and registered nurses.

Organizers

Excavator and Building Tunnel

Empowering Skilled Trades: IUOE Local 181’s Commitment to Workers

"Mixed Local" unions represent both Hoisting & Portable and Stationary members. Local 181 is a "Mixed Local".

Local 181 proudly represents over 4,500 members. Our jurisdiction includes 26 counties in Southern Indiana and all counties in the state of Kentucky with the exception of Boone, Campbell, Kenton & Pendleton.

  • Negotiating Fair Wages & Benefits

    We fight for strong pay, quality healthcare, and secure retirement plans for our members.

  • Providing Industry-Leading Training

    Our apprenticeship and ongoing education programs equip workers with the skills needed for long-term success.

  • Promoting Workplace Safety

    We ensure that all members receive the latest safety training and certifications to maintain the highest standards on the job.

  • Advocating for Workers' Rights

    Our representatives work to enforce labor agreements, resolve workplace issues, and improve working conditions.