Charles Kaufman
Aurora,MN
Summary
Former Union Steward with hands-on experience representing members, addressing workplace concerns, and supporting the fair application of collective bargaining agreements. Background in heavy equipment operation, mechanical repair, and DOT compliance provides a strong understanding of jobsite conditions and the challenges union members face. Continues to work within Local 49, maintaining active field experience across job sites.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Heavy Equipment Operator
Local 49
Grand Rapids, MN
05.2025 - Current
- Operated heavy machinery including excavators, bulldozers, and loaders to complete construction projects efficiently.
- Adhered to heavy equipment safety and operation protocols, resulting in minimal complaints or incidents.
- Met project demands consistently through careful and consistent operation of heavy equipment.
Heavy Equipment Mechanic / Operator / DOT Inspector / Union Steward
City of Aurora
Aurora, MN
10.2021 - 05.2025
- Served as Union Steward representing employees in workplace matters and discussions with management
- Addressed employee concerns and assisted in resolving disputes
- Ensured compliance with collective bargaining agreements and workplace policies
- Acted as liaison between union members and management
- Diagnosed, repaired, and maintained heavy equipment including hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical systems
- Performed DOT inspections ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations
- Operated heavy equipment including loaders, excavators, and dozers
- Conducted preventative maintenance to reduce downtime and extend equipment life
- Promoted and enforced safety standards
Heavy Equipment Mechanic / Operator
Hoover Construction Co
Virginia, MN
02.2020 - 09.2021
- Performed preventative maintenance and repairs on heavy equipment
- Diagnosed mechanical failures and completed repairs
- Operated heavy equipment including excavators, dozers, loaders, and backhoes
- Read and interpreted schematics and technical manuals
Heavy Equipment Operator
Lakehead Constructors
Aurora, MN
05.2018 - 02.2020
- Operated heavy equipment on construction projects
- Maintained records related to contracts, schedules, and compliance
- Provided guidance to workers regarding rights under agreements
- Investigated workplace concerns and reported findings
- Supported improvements to policies that increased morale and productivity
Heavy Equipment Operator
Kiewit
Omaha, NE
11.2015 - 10.2017
- Operated and maintained heavy machinery on large-scale construction projects
- Performed inspections and repairs to maintain equipment reliability
- Followed strict safety protocols
Heavy Equipment Operator
Dunlar Construction
Waite Park, MN
06.2015 - 11.2015
- Operated skid-steer, dozer, and excavator for grading and material movement
- Assisted in highway construction and concrete finishing operations
Education
High School Diploma -
Virginia Secondary School
Virginia, MNSkills
- Union representation and member advocacy
- Resolving workplace issues and employee concerns
- Collective bargaining agreement interpretation
- Contract compliance and workplace investigations
- Leadership and communication
- Heavy equipment operation and maintenance
- DOT inspection and safety compliance
Certification
- IUOE Local 49 Training Center – Hydraulic Backhoe Training
- IUOE Local 49 Training Center – Large Equipment Training
- IUOE Local 49 Training Center – Advanced Equipment Training
- IUOE Local 49 Training Center – Grade Reading & Staking
- IUOE Local 49 Training Center – Powered Industrial Trucks (Forklift & Telehandler)
Timeline
Heavy Equipment Operator
Local 49
05.2025 - Current
Heavy Equipment Mechanic / Operator / DOT Inspector / Union Steward
City of Aurora
10.2021 - 05.2025
Heavy Equipment Mechanic / Operator
Hoover Construction Co
02.2020 - 09.2021
Heavy Equipment Operator
Lakehead Constructors
05.2018 - 02.2020
Heavy Equipment Operator
Kiewit
11.2015 - 10.2017
Heavy Equipment Operator
Dunlar Construction
06.2015 - 11.2015
High School Diploma -
Virginia Secondary School
Section name
Dear Hiring Committee, I am writing to apply for the Business Agent position with Local 49. I bring both hands-on field experience and union leadership, having served as a Union Steward where I represented members, addressed workplace concerns, and ensured fair and consistent application of our collective bargaining agreement. As a steward, I was someone coworkers relied on when issues came up. I worked to resolve concerns involving management, working conditions, and contract understanding in a way that was fair, respectful, and consistent with the agreement. Since leaving the City of Aurora, I have continued working through Local 49, gaining experience across multiple job sites and crews. This has strengthened my understanding of the challenges members face and reinforced the importance of strong union representation. I am dependable, straightforward, and committed to doing what is right for the members. I take pride in communicating clearly, handling situations professionally, and standing up for workers when it matters. Thank you for your time and consideration. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to Local 49. Sincerely, Charles Kaufman