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Dredge Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arcosa Lightweight

Dredge Operator

Independence, LA · On-site

Arcosa Aggregates is seeking a Dredge Operator based out of our Amite, LA plant. This role is responsible for operating dredge and mobile equipment to support safe, efficient aggregate production and ...

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Dredge Operator

Independence, LA

Arcosa Aggregates is seeking a Dredge Operator based out of our Amite, LA plant. This role is responsible for operating dredge and mobile equipment to support safe, efficient aggregate production and ...

C&M Dredging Inc.

Dredge/Equipment Operator

Mobile, AL · On-site

Dredge Operating experience * Mechanical knowledge a plus * Must be able to complete tasks with and without direct supervision * Must be open to frequent and extensive travel * Must be available to ...

C&M Dredging Inc.

Dredge/Equipment Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Dredge Operating experience * Mechanical knowledge a plus * Must be able to complete tasks with and without direct supervision * Must be open to frequent and extensive travel * Must be available to ...

CRH

Dredge Operator

Saint Louisville, OH · On-site

Dredge Operator AMAT St Louisville, Ohio, United States Job ID: 525834 The Shelly Company, a CRH company, is a vertically integrated supplier of aggregates, asphalt, ready mix concrete and paving ...

Amrize

Dredge Operator

Bells, TX

Dredge Operator ABOUT THE ROLE Runs dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks or other types of large equipment used for pavingor moving, grading and compacting earth, sand, gravel, stone and/or ...

Amrize

Dredge Operator

Marietta, OK · On-site

Dredge Operator ABOUT THE ROLE Runs dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks or other types of large equipment used for pavingor moving, grading and compacting earth, sand, gravel, stone and/or ...

Amrize

Dredge Operator

Marietta, OK · On-site

Dredge Operator ABOUT THE ROLE Runs dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks or other types of large equipment used for pavingor moving, grading and compacting earth, sand, gravel, stone and/or ...

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Dredge Operator information

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How much do dredge operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for dredge operator in the United States is $19.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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

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 Dredge Operators?

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.
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Dredge Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dredge Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% As Needed, 9% Full Time, 63% Temporary, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 22% Physical, 77% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,935 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Dredge Operator 3 - 20055563

Dredge Operator 3 - 20055563

Ohio Department of Aging

Minster, OH • On-site

$26.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

What we need:
We are seeking energetic, passionate people who enjoy the outdoors and want to play a key role for the position of Dredge Operator 3 within the Division of Parks & Watercraft, headquartered at Lake Loramie State Park , assigned to Shelby County. The address is 4401 Fort Loramie-Swander's Rd, Minster, Ohio 45865 . To learn more about Lake Loramie State Park please visit Lake Loramie State Park | Ohio Department of Natural Resources
This position will require a Class A Commercial Drivers License with no restrictions.
What you will do...
  • Operates heavy equipment to maintain dredge material relocation areas (DMRA's) & lake improvement projects
  • Acts a lead worker over lower-level dredge operators in operation and maintenance of dredge tasks such as construction of dikes, boat ramps, dredge material relocation areas, and shoreline protection
  • Removes sediment & aquatic vegetation from waterways
  • Operates dredge-related equipment such as tandem dump truck, pickup truck, semi-tractor & trailer to haul stone & protect shoreline & dikes .
  • Starting hourly pay of $23.28/ hr with multiple pay increases over your first 4.5 y ears of service, with an end salary of $26.54/hr.
  • There may also be cost of living adjustments (COLA) applied. Longevity pay supplements begin after (5) years of state service. For more details, refer to the OCSEA pay range schedule & longevity rates. OCSEA Employees | Department of Administrative Services

At the State of Ohio, we take care of the team that cares for Ohioans. We provide a variety of quality, competitive benefits to eligible full-time and part-time employees*. For a list of all the State of Ohio Benefits, visit our Total Rewards website ! Our benefits package includes:
  • Medical Coverage
  • Free Dental, Vision and Basic Life Insurance premiums after completion of eligibility period
  • Paid time off, including vacation, personal, sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year
  • Childbirth, Adoption, and Foster Care leave
  • Education and Development Opportunities (Employee Development Funds, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and more)
  • Public Retirement Systems ( such as OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS ) & Optional Deferred Compensation ( Ohio Deferred Compensation )
*Benefits eligibility is dependent on a number of factors. The Agency Contact listed above will be able to provide specific benefits information for this position.
Qualifications
18 mos. trg. or 18 mos. exp. in heavy equipment operation & maintenance; 6 mos. trg. or 6 mos. exp. in dredging & related safety practices & operation of dredge & related equipment; valid commercial driver's license.
-Or 6 mos. exp. as Dredge Operator 2, 54422; valid commercial driver's license.
-Or equivalent of Minimum Class Qualifications For Employment noted above.
Note: The final applicant accepted for this position will be required to submit to urinalysis prior to appointment to test for illegal drug use. An applicant with a positive test result will not be offered employment, per Section 3719.01 & 3719.41 of Ohio Revised Code. Job Skill: Equipment Operations
Technical Skills: Watercraft Operation, CDL, Parks and Recreation
Professional Skills: Collaboration, Teamwork, Adaptability
Ohio Department of Aging logo

About Ohio Department of Aging

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Ohio Department of Aging, based in Columbus, OH, US, is within the healthcare and service industry, primarily serving older individuals and their care providers throughout the state. As a state government agency, its key role is to ensure the provision of quality services and supports that assist older Ohioans to live healthier, safer and more productive lives. The department functions through the official website, ohio.gov. It was established with a mission to position the State of Ohio on the leading edge of solution-driven innovation for the challenges and opportunities presented by Ohio's rapidly aging population.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, OH, US

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