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Dewatering Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Dewatering Operator information

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$12

$24

$35

How much do dewatering operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for dewatering operator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dewatering operator?

Dewatering Operators are professionals responsible for managing the removal of water from construction sites, mining areas, or wastewater treatment facilities. They operate and maintain equipment such as pumps, centrifuges, and filtration systems to reduce water accumulation and ensure safe, stable working conditions. Dewatering Operators monitor water levels, inspect equipment, and follow environmental and safety regulations to prevent flooding and contamination. Their work is crucial in projects where excess water can delay progress or pose hazards.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a dewatering operator on a construction site?

A Dewatering Operator is primarily responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining pumps and related equipment to remove water from work sites, trenches, or excavations. Daily tasks often include inspecting pump systems, monitoring water levels, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Operators also collaborate closely with site supervisors and other construction teams to ensure that dewatering does not interfere with ongoing work and maintains site safety. Attention to detail and strong communication skills are essential, as timely water removal can significantly impact project timelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dewatering operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dewatering Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, basic water treatment processes, and experience with pumps and filtration equipment, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial dewatering machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like OSHA are typically necessary. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators respond quickly to equipment issues and coordinate with team members. These skills are essential for maintaining operational efficiency, ensuring environmental compliance, and preventing costly downtime in industrial or construction settings.

What is the difference between Dewatering Operator vs Pump Operator?

AspectDewatering OperatorPump Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly CDLOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, water treatment plants, mining sitesIndustrial plants, water treatment, construction sites
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate dewatering equipment to remove water from sites or materialsOperate various pumps to transfer liquids, maintain equipment

Both Dewatering Operators and Pump Operators work in water-related environments and require safety certifications. Dewatering Operators focus on removing water from construction or mining sites, while Pump Operators handle a broader range of pumping tasks across industries. Their roles often overlap, but Dewatering Operators specialize in dewatering systems specifically.

More about Dewatering Operator jobs

What states have the most Dewatering Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dewatering Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Dewatering Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,869 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description

Handex is on the move!


Are you ready to put your dredging skills to the test?


If your answer is yes, then let's talk. Handex is preparing for new projects throughout 2026 and seeking Field Dredge Operators for our Industrial Services Travel Team.


As a Dredge Operator, you will assist with Industrial projects in dewatering and processing operations at our client's sites in the North/Southeast and Midwest regions.


Handex Consulting & Remediation, LLC is a full-service environmental company focused on providing professional environmental consulting, remediation, construction and sludge dewatering services in the United States. Founded in 1968, we have over 58+ years of experience and have no intention of slowing down!


What will be my responsibilities?

  • Under the direction of the PM or site foreman, you will operate hydraulic, auger, or mechanical dredging systems for sludge removal in ponds, lagoons, and containment areas at assigned projects.
  • Set up, position, operate and maintain dredging systems (pumps, pipelines, floats, anchors).
  • Control dredge depth, swing, and production rates for efficient solids removal.
  • Assess sludge characteristics and adjust methods to maximize recovery and minimize water entrainment.
  • Coordinate with dewatering operations (centrifuge/filter press) to maintain steady feed.
  • Monitor flow rates, pressures, and solids concentration; adjust to meet production targets.
  • Manage discharge lines and production logs to ensure proper material transfer to downstream processes (volumes, conditions, equipment performance).
  • Learn and follow all safety protocols (confined space, lockout/tagout, site requirements) at all times.
  • Support mobilization/demobilization and keep work areas clean and organized
  • Accurately maintain and promptly process expenses and timesheets.
  • Consistently represent Handex in a professional manner while assigned to projects, collaborating effectively with teammates, and maintaining respectful and positive working relationships with the team.


Requirements

Skills needed for project success:

  • High school diploma/GED.
  • 3 years of experience required to dredge basins, ponds and lagoons in an industrial environment.
  • Commit to project duration and work a 5/6-day work week and 12-hour shifts (day/night as needed). Flexibility with a rotational schedule and overtime until project completion.
  • Valid driver license in good standing and willingness to travel to client's project sites as required.
  • Comfortable being in an industrial setting both indoors and outside, confined spaces as well as being able to lift 50 lbs or more.
  • TWIC card and OSHA 40.
  • Excellent customer service skills, reliability and dependable along with a can-do attitude is a must.
  • Required to pass pre-employment background checks (physical/drug/alcohol/criminal.

Salary Range:$25.00 to $28.00 an hour plus OT.


Benefits of joining Handex:

  • Competitive compensation and travel expenses.
  • Excellent benefits, and 401(k).
  • Holiday and vacation time off.
  • Career and development opportunities.
  • Be a valued and respected member of the team.


Handex Consulting & Remediation, LLC is an equal opportunity employer.


To learn more about Handex, please view our website at www.hcr-llc.com