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Dredge Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Dredge Deckhand

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

The primary responsibility of a Deckhand is to assist the Dredge Operator in achieving maximum production while taking care of the equipment with professionalism and integrity. Other job ...

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 ...

Dredge Deckhand

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

The primary responsibility of a Deckhand is to assist the Dredge Operator in achieving maximum production while taking care of the equipment with professionalism and integrity. Other job ...

Dredge Operator AMAT St Louisville, Ohio, United States Job ID: 522027 The Shelly Company, a CRH company, is a vertically integrated supplier of aggregates, asphalt, ready mix concrete and paving ...

General Laboring, Maintenance, Equipment, Dredge, and Plant Operations. Key Responsibilities ... Language Skills Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and ...

Dredge Pump Operator

Mccook, NE · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Job Type: Full-Time Pay: $17.00 - $23.00 McCook Sand and Gravel is looking for a Dredge Pump Operator to manage the dredge motor and ensure smooth operations on the water. If you enjoy working ...

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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$15

$19

$26

How much do dredge operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 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 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, 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 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 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.

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 cities are hiring for Dredge Operator jobs? Cities with the most Dredge Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dredge Operator jobs? The most popular types of Dredge Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Dredge Operator jobs? The top employers for Dredge Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Dredge Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Dredge Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Dredge Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,935 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Dredge/Equipment Operator

C&M Dredging Inc

Fort Myers, FL

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Location: Southeast US

Employment Type: Full Time

Hours: 75 hours per week, 7 days per week, 3 weeks on 1 week off

Pay: based on experience, paid weekly, with benefits

Job Description:

Perform the Dredge Operator position on project sites throughout the Southeast.

Requirements

  • Direct or assist workers in placing shore anchors and cables
  • Direct or assist in laying pipe
  • Lower anchor poles to verify depths of excavation, using winches, or scan depth gauges
  • Mobilization, daily operations, and demobilization of dredge
  • Must be authorized to work in the US
  • Must be able to pass a background check
  • Must pass a drug test
  • Valid driver's license.
  • 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 work out of town for long periods of time, including weekends and holidays
  • Physical Requirements:
  • General labor requirements project to project
  • Pressure
  • washing/cleaning and assisting with maintenance and service of equipment
  • Assistance in Maintaining a clean and safe job site and work environment
  • Additional tasks on an as-needed basis
  • Reporting to the foreman and superintendent
  • Must be able to lift 75 lbs. and meet the physical demands of construction work
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath