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Dredge Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Sea Hawk Maritime

Dredge Deckhand

Naples, FL · On-site

$20 - $22/wk

Communicate with Dredge Operator, Boat Operators and barge loader to coordinate dredge movements.Renews anchor and buoy lines repaired, oiled, greased, and in good operating condition.Secures Mooring ...

Eastern Dredging

Be Seen First

Marine Dredge & Barge Operator

Deerfield Beach, FL · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

This is a hands-on position operating a cutterhead-driven vacuum dredge throughout Broward and Palm Beach Counties, with our primary operations based in Deerfield Beach. The operator will pilot and ...

Gator Dredging

Dredge Mechanic - Engineer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

The Dredge Mechanic will be working hand in hand with the dredge operator and management to ensure the dredge is being maintained. Documentation of work orders and PM hour intervals to be completed.

Sea Hawk Maritime

Dredge Mechanic - Engineer

Naples, FL · On-site

$25 - $28/wk

The Dredge Mechanic will be working hand in hand with the dredge operator and management to ensure the dredge is being maintained. Documentation of work orders and PM hour intervals to be completed.

Sea Hawk Maritime

Dredge Mechanic - Engineer

Naples, FL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The Dredge Mechanic will be working hand in hand with the dredge operator and management to ensure the dredge is being maintained. Documentation of work orders and PM hour intervals to be completed.

Gator Dredging

Dredge Mechanic - Engineer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

The Dredge Mechanic will be working hand in hand with the dredge operator and management to ensure the dredge is being maintained. Documentation of work orders and PM hour intervals to be completed.

Gator Dredging

Boat Operator - Dredging

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Operate in proximity of work areas to anticipate the needs of the crew and Dredge Operator. * Prepare tools and operate boats and equipment for crew members for the work being performed. * Maintain ...

Gator Dredging

Boat Operator - Dredging

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Operate in proximity of work areas to anticipate the needs of the crew and Dredge Operator.Prepare tools and operate boats and equipment for crew members for the work being performed.Maintain all ...

Gator Dredging

Boat Operator - Dredging

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Operate in proximity of work areas to anticipate the needs of the crew and Dredge Operator. * Prepare tools and operate boats and equipment for crew members for the work being performed. * Maintain ...

Sea Hawk Maritime

Boat Operator

Naples, FL · On-site

$25 - $28/wk

Operate in proximity of work areas to anticipate the needs of the crew and Dredge Operator.Prepare tools and operate boats and equipment for crew members for the work being performed.Maintain all ...

Sea Hawk Maritime

Boat Operator

Naples, FL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Operate in proximity of work areas to anticipate the needs of the crew and Dredge Operator. * Prepare tools and operate boats and equipment for crew members for the work being performed. * Maintain ...

Great Lakes Dredge and Dock

Beach Security

West Palm Beach, FL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation is the largest provider of dredging services in the United ... Perform escort duties for bulldozer or wheel loader when equipment is being operated outside the ...

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Dredge Operator information

See Florida salary details

$11

$14

$19

How much do dredge operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for dredge operator in Florida is $14.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $14.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dredge operator?

Dredge Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating equipment that removes sand, gravel, or other materials from bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, or harbors. Their work is essential for maintaining navigable waterways, preventing flooding, and facilitating construction projects. Dredge Operators control the machinery, monitor depth and positioning, and ensure that operations are conducted safely and efficiently. They may work for government agencies, construction companies, or private contractors. The job often requires attention to safety protocols and the ability to troubleshoot mechanical issues.

What does a dredge operator do?

As a dredge operator, you remove sand, gravel, and other forms of sediment from lakes, rivers, streams, canals, and other waterways. You typically excavate these areas so that boats and barges can use them. While you usually maintain navigable waterways, your responsibilities can also include dredging to mitigate flood risks, reclaim shoreline or wetlands, or assist in engineering projects. In this career, you operate dredge systems that consist of hydraulic pumps, anchors, suction devices, and measuring instruments to guide each project. Your duties include monitoring progress and deciding where to place the dredging equipment for optimal efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dredge operator?

To thrive as a Dredge Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, knowledge of dredging procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with dredging equipment, GPS navigation systems, and sometimes specific certifications like OSHA safety training are important. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators manage operations safely and efficiently. These skills ensure safe handling of complex machinery, minimize environmental impact, and maintain smooth project progress.

What are some common challenges faced by dredge operators on the job?

Dredge operators often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining equipment reliability, and ensuring safety while operating heavy machinery near water. Navigating tight deadlines and coordinating with other crew members or project managers can also be demanding, as projects may require adjustments based on environmental factors. Staying up-to-date with environmental regulations and adhering to strict safety protocols are essential parts of the role.

What is the difference between Dredge Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectDredge OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license, dredging certificationsOperator certifications, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentWater-based, dredging sites, marine settingsConstruction sites, land-based projects
Industry UsageMaritime, port construction, environmental projectsConstruction, mining, infrastructure

Both Dredge Operators and Excavator Operators operate heavy machinery, but Dredge Operators specialize in water-based dredging equipment used for excavation below water level, often requiring marine certifications. Excavator Operators work primarily on land, using excavators for earthmoving tasks. While their skills overlap, their work environments and specific certifications differ, making each role unique within the construction and maritime industries.

How much do dredge operators make?

Dredge operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy machinery may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or maritime environments.
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Dredge Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dredge Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,590 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Dredge Deckhand

Sea Hawk Maritime

Naples, FL • On-site

$20 - $22/wk

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Sea Hawk Maritime, LLC: Dredge DeckhandThis is a great opportunity for an experienced Deck Hand who can help the dredge crew on the water and land. You must have at least 3 to 5 years of dredging or marine construction experience. Starting Hourly Pay Range for This Position: $20.00 to $22.00. This is based on previous work experience, skills, and current certifications / professional licenses. Responsibilities For the Dredge Deckhand: Communicate with Dredge Operator, Boat Operators and barge loader to coordinate dredge movements.Renews anchor and buoy lines repaired, oiled, greased, and in good operating condition.Secures Mooring Lines to vessels.Assists in monitoring the condition of wire cables, winches, pulleys, blocks, pipeline and mooring fixtures.Couples and aligns sections of dredge pipelines to assure efficient discharge of silt from waterway. Sets anchors to secure float lines.Complete Daily Boat Maintenance Log/Checklist is MandatoryComply with safety practices, rules, and regulations while performing job duties and follow company procedure in reporting unsafe conditions or practices.Assist in performing maintenance as needed.Assist with washing and maintaining boats and equipment in proper working order.Keep work areas clean and organized. Work as a team and fulfill any and all other duties and tasks as assigned.Requirements For the Dredge Deckhand: 3 to 5 years of experience in dredging or marine construction.Must be able to travel.Must Provide own tools besides specialty tools like a welder, compressor, etc... OSHA Certification a plus.Boating or Equipment Certifications a plus.A Valid Driver's License is required to be maintained throughout your employment. Must be able to work outside for entire shift in all weather conditions (hot, humid, cold, wet) required.Be honest, hardworking, reliable, punctual and attitude to get the job done.Physical Demands/Work Environment for The Dredge Deckhand: Physical/Sensory Functions: Regularly will use sit, use hands, talk/hear; Frequently will reach with hands; Occasionally will stand, walk, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, taste/smell.Lift and/or Move Functions: Regularly will lift up to 10 pounds; Frequently will lift up to 25 pounds; Occasionally will lift up to 50 pounds.Employee Benefits. An excellent compensation and benefits package is offered. Benefit plans include:MedicalDentalVision401(k) Retirement PlanLife InsuranceShort Term and Long-Term Disability InsurancePaid Time Off for Vacation, Sick and HolidaysSea Hawk Maritime, LLC is a:Drug-Free WorkplaceEqual Opportunity EmployerHomeland Security - E-Verify Company. Sea Hawk Maritime, LLC will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States.For more information, please visit www.seahawkmaritime.net
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