HQ

700 N Elm St, Henderson, KY 42420

HQ

+1 (270) 826-2704

Operating Engineers Local 181

International Union of Operating Engineers Local 181International Union of Operating Engineers Local 181
  • Home
  • About Us
    • Our History
    • Training Centers
    • Executive Staff
    • Districts & Reps
    • Organizing
  • Apprenticeship
    • Apply Today
  • Resources
    • Member Login
    • Member Benefits
    • Health & Welfare
    • Latest News
    • Newsletter
  • Forms
    • Health & Welfare Forms
    • Reciprocity Forms
  • Galleries
    • Photography Gallery
    • Video Gallery
    • Equipment Gallery
  • Registration
  • Contractors
Website Development - Digital Upgrade
E'Ville Shindig Car Show
Landscaping - Hoffherr Landscaping
Trusted Local Pros - Evansville Indiana
Roofers Local 23
Repair Refinish Recolor - Quality Refinishing Services
Construction - Sparks Construction Specialties
Premier Facilities Services
Engineers - IUOE Local 181
Landscaping - VanBeck Stockers
Exterminating - McMahon Exterminating
West Side Nut Club - Evansville
Roofing - Indy Roofers
Law Offices of Steven K. Deig
Wells - Richardville Drilling
Evansville - Nut Club Fall Festival
Evansville - Nut Club Fall Festival Live Cams
Fulton Interior Systems
Fulton Tile and Stone
Siemer's Glass
Varsity Club - Reitz R-MEN
Extreme Clean Mobile Truck Cleaning
Tri-State Food Bank Evansville, IN
Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey
Evansville Ford Center
Political Party - Warrick County Republicans
Evansville Victory Theatre Laura Symon Coaching and Consulting
Zoar Church Evansville
Shammy's Auto Wash
St. Joe Veterinary Hospital
Blankenberger Brothers - General Contractors and Construction
Mulzer Crushed Stone, Inc.
Compressor FX
My Home Envy
Stephen Libs Chocolates
Donut Bank
General Contracting & Electrical | Pinnacle Contractors
Construction & Development | MLP Construction
Painting & Refinishing Services | Prime Time Finishes Hair & Nail Salon | Posh Hair Studio
Free High School For Adults | Goodwill Excel Center Evansville Southeast
Real Estate Title Company | Foreman Watson Land Title
Video Surveillance in Evansville, IN | Evansville Surveillance Network
Video Surveillance Services | Digital Surveillance Network
Haubstadt Family Dentistry | Haubstadt, IN
Auto Glass Repair & Replacement in Evansville, IN | United AutoGlass
Jim Johnson Grand Champion Pitmaster and BBQ Expert - Jim Johnson
Fireworks in Kentucky | Crazy Train Fireworks
Self Insurance Services | Evansville, IN

Contractors: Why Hire Union Labor?

At IUOE Local 181, we deliver more than manpower — we bring proven expertise, unmatched professionalism, and a commitment to safety and productivity that sets your projects up for success. When you hire union Operating Engineers, you’re not just filling a role — you’re investing in skilled professionals who show up trained, certified, and ready to get the job done right the first time.

Find Out Why Contractors Choose IUOE Local 181.

Build Better, Bid Smarter: The Union Advantage

  • Contractors can form an ongoing relationship with their union hall to be notified about jobs they may want to bid on.

    “I talk to the union reps, usually weekly. They'll send me projects that are coming up, and I'll send them some stuff we're looking at so we try to keep communication, make sure we don't let a good job slip past.”

    — Tom Colley
    Little Creek Construction
    Tom Colley
  • Confidence in bidding, knowing the union hall can provide trained workers and benefits for any size job.

    “We bid jobs knowing the quality of people we can get from the union hall, and that lets us bid more competitively. We’re very comfortable with the people that we’re working with, which makes everybody more productive.”

    — Tim Sigler
    JBI Construction
    Tim Sigler
  • Laborers arrive to the job site ready to work, with training on the latest equipment and safety certification.

    “We've recognized the difference in the workforce between union and nonunion workers is relatively simple. The extensive training that the union provides the men and women in the industry is second to none. And your risk is mitigated tremendously by having trained workers.”

    — Mike Gies
    Abel Construction Company
    Mike Gies
  • Take the stress out of recruitment - call your local union hall and they will supply you with workers who have already been vetted and trained.

    “The union provides a lot of help in the recruitment and the HR, facilitating hiring and bringing these employees up to speed. They can have that security of those health insurance benefits, retirement throughout their career, and not just have to work for one contractor. So being able to keep that level of stress down with the employee makes a better worker.”

    — Mark Edlebeck
    Fisher Contracting
    Mark Edlebeck
  • Hiring within a district where the workers are familiar with the surrounding area can help contractors branch out into new markets.

    “Working with the local union has helped us grow, because we're able to take on more projects. We're able to continue to diversify our company. And calling on the local operators union, we're able to get the individuals that fit the job that we're going after.”

    — Quentin Riley
    Travis Construction
    Quentin Riley
  • Contractors consistently praise the pride and camaraderie of union laborers.

    “Working with union workers you know that they have a sense of pride in what they're building. And they all just have that sense of kinship.”

    — Mark Edlebeck
    Fisher Contracting
    Mark Edlebeck

Interested In Hiring Skilled Labor From Local 181?

Get In Touch With Us Using The Form Below!

Valid.
Please fill in your full name
Valid.
Please fill in your email
Valid.
Please fill in your phone numnber
Valid.
Please fill in your subject
Valid.
Please fill in your message


Volvo ECR235EL Excavator

Volvo ECR235EL Excavator

The Volvo ECR235EL is a crawler excavator designed with a short swing radius, allowing efficient operation in confined spaces without sacrificing performance. It is engineered for productivity and versatility in construction and earthmoving applications.

Specifications

Specification Value
Operating Weight52,250 - 61,440 lbs
Gross Power173 HP
Engine Speed at Max Torque1,800 RPM
Bucket Capacity0.47 - 1.88 yd³
Max Digging Reach32' 5"
Max Digging Depth22' 2"
Breakout Force (Normal)28,100 lbf
Breakout Force (Boost)29,710 lbf
Tear Out Force (Normal)22,780 lbf
Tear Out Force (Boost)24,080 lbf
Tail Swing Radius5' 11"
Engine ModelVolvo Stage IV/Tier 4 Final D6J

Key Features

  • Short Swing Radius: Enables efficient operation in tight spaces.
  • Enhanced Hydraulic System: Fully electronic control for smooth operation and fuel efficiency.
  • Operator Comfort: Spacious ROPS-certified cab with climate control and ergonomic controls.
  • Safety Enhancements: Includes anti-slip plates, handrails, and rearview cameras.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Integrated ECO mode and auto idle shutdown to optimize fuel consumption.
  • Volvo Co-Pilot System: Advanced touchscreen system with Dig Assist for precision excavation.

Applications

  • Urban Construction: Ideal for building sites with limited space.
  • Roadwork & Infrastructure: Perfect for trenching and material handling.
  • Heavy Excavation: Suitable for digging foundations and large-scale earthmoving.
  • Demolition: Capable of handling demanding demolition jobs.

Market Pricing

  • New models: $215,000 - $297,600
  • Used models: $99,900 - $204,000 (depending on age and hours used)

Competitive Comparison

Model Horsepower Operating Weight Max Digging Depth Bucket Capacity
Volvo ECR235EL173 HP52,250 - 61,440 lbs22' 2"0.47 - 1.88 yd³
Kobelco SK 230 SR LC-5160 HP56,400 lbs21' 7"0.9 - 1.8 yd³
Komatsu PC 238 US LC-11156 HP54,825 lbs21' 9"0.8 - 1.7 yd³
Case CX 245 D SR160 HP56,900 lbs21' 10"0.8 - 1.7 yd³
John Deere 245G-Tier LC159 HP56,830 lbs21' 8"0.8 - 1.7 yd³

Conclusion

The Volvo ECR235EL is a compact yet powerful excavator designed for high-performance operation in tight spaces. With its short swing radius, advanced hydraulics, and fuel-efficient features, it is an ideal choice for construction and excavation professionals looking for a versatile and reliable machine.

Komatsu PC360LC-11 Excavator

Komatsu PC360LC-11 Excavator

The Komatsu PC360LC-11 is a high-performance hydraulic excavator engineered for heavy-duty construction, mining, and material handling applications. It combines powerful engine performance, fuel efficiency, and advanced hydraulics to maximize productivity.

Specifications

Specification Value
EngineKomatsu SAA6D114E-6
Net Horsepower257 HP @ 1,950 rpm
Operating Weight78,645 - 80,547 lbs
Bucket Capacity0.68 - 2.66 m³ (0.89 - 3.48 yd³)
Maximum Digging Depth24'3" - 26'10" (depending on arm length)
Maximum Digging Reach36 - 39 feet
Hydraulic SystemHydrauMind, Closed-center load-sensing
Emissions ComplianceEPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage V
Fuel Tank Capacity172 US gallons
Hydraulic Tank Capacity65.5 US gallons

Key Features

  • HydrauMind Hydraulic System: Enhances efficiency and multi-functional capabilities.
  • Multiple Work Modes: Power, Economy, Lifting, Breaker, and Attachment modes.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Auto Idle Shutdown and fuel-saving technology reduce operational costs.
  • Operator Comfort: Spacious ROPS-certified cab with climate control and adjustable air suspension seat.
  • Advanced Monitoring System: KOMTRAX provides real-time diagnostics and fleet management.
  • Safety Enhancements: Rearview camera, ROPS cab, and optional KomVision 360-degree monitoring.
  • Easy Maintenance: One-sided engine service access and extended filter change intervals.

Applications

  • Heavy Construction: Large-scale excavation and earthmoving projects.
  • Mining & Quarrying: Efficient material extraction and handling.
  • Demolition: Specialized models available for high-reach and controlled demolition.
  • Pipeline & Utility Work: Trenching and material placement.

Performance and Market Comparison

Model Horsepower Operating Weight Max Digging Depth Bucket Capacity
Komatsu PC360LC-11257 HP78,645 - 80,547 lbs24'3" - 26'10"0.89 - 3.48 yd³
Caterpillar 336311 HP81,900 lbs26'10"0.9 - 2.7 yd³
Volvo EC380E303 HP83,330 lbs27'1"1.1 - 2.5 yd³

Pricing and Availability

  • New models: $250,000 - $350,000
  • Used models: $65,000 - $275,000
  • Rental options: Available through major rental companies like BigRentz and United Rentals.

Conclusion

The Komatsu PC360LC-11 is a powerful and versatile excavator designed for high production in demanding environments. Its advanced hydraulic system, intelligent controls, and fuel-efficient design make it a top choice for construction and mining professionals. With various model configurations and an emphasis on operator comfort and safety, this excavator is well-suited for a wide range of applications.

Komatsu PC490LC-8 Excavator

Komatsu PC490LC-8 Excavator

The Komatsu PC490LC-8 is a large excavator designed for heavy-duty construction, quarrying, and demolition applications. It offers powerful performance, efficient hydraulics, and advanced control systems to optimize productivity and fuel efficiency.

Specifications

Specification Value
EngineKomatsu SAA6D125
Horsepower350-365 HP
Operating Weight47-50 tons
Fuel Tank Capacity172 US gallons
Hydraulic Tank Capacity65.5 US gallons
Max Digging Depth25-30 feet
Max Reach38-39 feet
Bucket Capacity2.7-3.5 cubic meters

Key Features

  • Komatsu HydrauMind System: Enhances hydraulic efficiency and responsiveness.
  • Multiple Working Modes: Power, Economy, and Lifting modes for operational flexibility.
  • Auto Idle Shutdown: Reduces fuel consumption during inactivity.
  • Closed-Center Load-Sensing Hydraulics: Improves operational efficiency.
  • Spacious Operator Cab: Equipped with an adjustable air suspension seat and climate control.
  • ROPS Certified Cab: Ensures operator safety and compliance with ISO standards.

Applications

  • Heavy Construction: Large-scale excavation and trenching projects.
  • Quarrying: Efficient material extraction and loading.
  • Demolition: High-reach arm capabilities for structural dismantling.
  • Mining Operations: Used for surface mining and earthmoving tasks.

Performance Analysis

  • Digging Depth: Up to 30 feet for deep excavation tasks.
  • Bucket Capacity: Handles up to 4.6 cubic yards of material.
  • Swing Speed: 9.0-9.1 rpm for efficient cycle times.
  • Lifting Capacity: High stability and load-bearing capabilities.

Market Comparison

Model Horsepower Operating Weight Max Digging Depth Bucket Capacity
Komatsu PC490LC-8350-365 HP47-50 tons25-30 feet2.7-3.5 m³
Caterpillar 349424 HP47.6 tons26 feet2.6 m³
Volvo EC480D382 HP47.5 tons27 feet2.1-3.3 m³
John Deere 470G LC367 HP51.2 tons25.3 feet2.4-3.3 m³

Pricing and Availability

  • New models: $450,000 - $550,000
  • Used models: $150,000 - $350,000 (based on age and condition)

Conclusion

The Komatsu PC490LC-8 is a powerful and reliable excavator designed for demanding applications in construction, mining, and demolition. Its advanced hydraulic system, spacious operator cab, and multiple working modes make it a highly efficient and versatile machine. For those considering a purchase, comparing specifications with newer models like the PC490LC-11 and evaluating available maintenance records can help ensure a sound investment.

  1. Komatsu D61PXi-24 Excavator
  2. Komatsu D39PX-24 Bulldozer
  3. John Deere 8R Series Tractor
  4. Link-Belt 218 HSL Crawler Crane

Page 1 of 6

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
affiliates
What Can We Help You With Today?
Contact Us

IUOE Local 181 Logo
IUOE Local 181
Resources
  • Apprenticeship
  • Organizing Information
  • Latest News
  • Member Benefits
  • Member Registration
Contact Now

Office Location

700 N Elm St,
Henderson, KY 42420

Office Contact

+1 (270) 826-2704

Send Us A Message

Main Menu
  • Home
  • About us
  • Forms
  • Galleries
  • Contact Us
You Dream It We Build It
© Copyright 2025 International Union of Operating Engineers Local 181 All Rights Reserved. Designed & Developed by Digital Upgrade