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Dredge Master Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Master of Tow

Savannah, GA ยท On-site

$45 - $65/hr

Serves as Master of a self-propelled tugboat * Proper maintenance, operation, administration ... Directs repairs to vessel made by dredge crew, and requisitions necessary supplies and parts * Must ...

Coast Guard license, Master of Towing vessels upon near Coastal waters * 3-5 years of experience in dredge support work, anchor handling, & tow lining barges as Master of Towing on the Mississippi ...

Quality Assurance, Testing & Trials โ€ข Develop and maintain a Master Test Index and coordinate all testing--from compartment air tests and alignment checks to dredge system performance trials. โ€ข ...

Quality Assurance, Testing & Trials Develop and maintain a Master Test Index and coordinate all testing-from compartment air tests and alignment checks to dredge system performance trials. Author and ...

Tugboat Captain

Belle Chasse, LA ยท On-site

$700 - $800/day

Coast Guard license, Master of Towing vessels upon near Coastal waters * 3-5 years of experience in dredge support work, anchor handling, & tow lining barges as Master of Towing on the Mississippi ...

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Dredge Master information

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$15

$36

$41

How much do dredge master jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for dredge master in the United States is $36.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.62 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Who are the Big 4 dredging companies?

The Big 4 dredging companies are generally considered to be Jan De Nul Group, DEME Group, Boskalis Westminster, and Van Oord. These companies are industry leaders in marine dredging, offshore construction, and environmental projects, often employing specialized equipment and requiring certifications for dredge masters and crew.

What are some typical challenges a Dredge Master faces on the job?

A Dredge Master often contends with unpredictable weather conditions, shifting tides, and variable underwater terrain, all of which require vigilance and adaptability to maintain safe and efficient operations. Coordinating with crew members, engineers, and supporting vessels is essential for smooth workflow and timely project completion. Additionally, the role involves rigorous adherence to environmental and safety regulations, which can vary between projects and locations. Successful Dredge Masters are proactive problem-solvers who balance operational demands with regulatory requirements while ensuring the well-being of their teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Dredge Master position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dredge Master, you need in-depth knowledge of marine operations, navigation, and dredging techniques, often supported by relevant maritime qualifications and experience. Familiarity with dredging equipment, GPS navigation systems, and safety regulations, such as STCW or relevant local certifications, is essential. Strong leadership, clear communication, and quick decision-making are vital soft skills for managing a diverse crew and responding to dynamic work environments. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and compliant dredging operations on waterways and construction projects.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Dredge Masters typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized surgeons, or successful business owners. In the maritime industry, top-tier dredging project managers or company executives may reach high six-figure incomes, especially with experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Most jobs with this level of pay require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve management or specialized technical expertise.

What is a Dredge Master job?

A Dredge Master is responsible for overseeing and operating dredging equipment used to remove sediment and debris from bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and harbors. They ensure the dredging process is conducted efficiently, safely, and in compliance with environmental regulations. Their duties include supervising the crew, maintaining equipment, and monitoring dredging depth and progress. Dredge Masters typically work for marine construction companies, government agencies, or port authorities.

What is the highest paying rigger job?

The highest paying rigger jobs are typically in the oil and gas industry, construction, or heavy industrial sectors, where specialized skills and certifications such as signal person or crane operator licenses are required. These roles often offer higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved, with senior riggers or those with extensive experience earning the most. Compensation can also increase with overtime, union membership, and working in remote or hazardous environments.

What jobs pay $250 an hour?

Dredge Masters, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications, can potentially earn around $250 an hour, particularly in high-demand maritime or industrial environments. Such roles often require advanced knowledge of dredging equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes supervisory responsibilities, which contribute to higher compensation levels.
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What job categories do people searching Dredge Master jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Dredge Master jobs are:
Infographic showing various Dredge Master job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% As Needed, 3% Full Time, and 30% Temporary. Highlights an 2% Physical, and 98% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $74,943 per year, or $36 per hour.
Master of Tow

$45 - $65/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Application Instructions
Please Apply Now.
Position Description
Essential Job Duties
    • Safe Operations of the vessel and crew
    • Serves as Master of a self-propelled tugboat
    • Proper maintenance, operation, administration, navigation and safety of the vessel
    • Supervises the maintenance, repairs, and proper functioning of all vessel equipment
    • Navigation and operations of the vessel, including the operation and maintenance of navigation equipment and deck machinery
    • Supervises and trains the Deckhand and directs duties as needed
    • Directs repairs to vessel made by dredge crew, and requisitions necessary supplies and parts
    • Must be willing to work on non-live aboard and live aboard vessels
    • This position is available in various areas Nationwide.

Position Requirements
Requirements
    • Valid MMC with U.S. Coast Guard license as Master of Towing Vessels for the specified vessel route with radar observer
    • Marine construction experience preferred
    • At least 3 years' experience operating towing vessels required. Required knowledge of specified channels
    • Required ability to read and understand tide, current, and weather conditions effects on the navigation and maneuvering of towed vessels
    • Required knowledge of pushing, towing, working around anchors, and maneuvering barges alongside vessels
    • Required knowledge of the use of a tow winch, tow lines, cables, rigging and making and breaking tows
    • Required ability to dock and undock vessels properly and safely
    • Required ability to read and maintain charts and navigational aids
    • Able Seaman preferred
    • Valid medical card
    • Valid TWIC Required

Equal Opportunity Employer
Anti-Discrimination Notice. It is an unlawful employment practice for an employer to fail or refuse to hire or discharge any individual, or otherwise to discriminate against any individual with respect to that individual's terms and conditions of employment, because of such individual's race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.