ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Dredge Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dredge America, Inc.

Dredge Deckhand

Kansas City, MO

$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 ...

CRH

Dredge Operator

Saint Louisville, OH · On-site

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

Amrize

Dredge Operator

Bells, TX · 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 ...

CEMEX

Operator Dredge

Davenport, FL

Job Summary The Dredge Operator operates the dredge in a safe and efficient manner and uses acquired skills to dredge sand from pond-filled pits.This job interfaces, on a daily basis, with the rest ...

CEMEX

Operator Dredge

Davenport, FL · On-site

Job Summary The Dredge Operator operates the dredge in a safe and efficient manner and uses acquired skills to dredge sand from pond-filled pits.This job interfaces, on a daily basis, with the rest ...

Amrize

Dredge Operator

Bells, TX · 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 ...

Amrize

Dredge Operator

Bells, TX · 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 ...

CEMEX

Operator Dredge

Davenport, FL · On-site

Job Summary The Dredge Operator operates the dredge in a safe and efficient manner and uses acquired skills to dredge sand from pond-filled pits.This job interfaces, on a daily basis, with the rest ...

CEMEX

Operator Dredge

Davenport, FL · On-site

Job Summary The Dredge Operator operates the dredge in a safe and efficient manner and uses acquired skills to dredge sand from pond-filled pits.This job interfaces, on a daily basis, with the rest ...

CRH

Night Dredge Operator (Pumper)

Broken Arrow, OK · On-site

$22/hr

Night Dredge Operator (Pumper) AMAT Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, United States Job ID: 525278 Holliday Sand & Gravel Company, a CRH company, is one of the leading sand and gravel producers throughout ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDredge Operator Jobs

Dredge Operator information

See salary details

$15

$19

$26

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.
More about Dredge Operator jobs
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:
What job categories do people searching Dredge Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Dredge Operator jobs are:
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 Deckhand

Dredge Deckhand

Dredge America, Inc.

Kansas City, MO

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

This is a full-time traveling position throughout the country to work on different jobsites. We are looking for a team player that is a problem solver and is committed to do the right thing with a can-do attitude. If you are interested in upward mobility, have a desire to travel and see the country, and enjoy working around water, we would be a great fit.

A typical work schedule would be 12-hour days, 7 days/week with 3 weeks on and 1 week off. We are looking for dedicated employees to fill full-time, 100% travel positions that have a superior work ethic and are looking for a career. Working conditions involve a strong team environment where there is daily contact with heavy equipment and water. Candidates must be able to work outside in different weather conditions, able to handle stress, and be physically apt. Other basic criteria for employment are having a valid driver’s license, U.S. citizenship, and having a reliable vehicle to get to and from the jobsite which are located throughout the country. All candidates also must be able to work overtime, nights, and weekends and be able to pass a background check and drug screen.

Along with competitive pay, we offer great benefits such as health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, voluntary life insurance, 401(k) match program, profit sharing bonuses, performance based bonuses, daily per diem given when on site, lodging and travel paid for while on jobsite, company branded apparel and PPE, and birthday, milestone work anniversary and life event recognition. Certain benefits begin following 60 days of employment.

Heavy equipment operation experience and a high school degree or equivalent is a must. Marine experience is a plus along with training in diesel mechanics and hydraulics. 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 responsibilities include, but are not limited to, complete care and maintenance of machinery, operating support equipment, and daily reporting to Project Superintendent and/or Dredge Operator.


Employment Type: Full Time
Salary: $18 - $25 Hourly
Bonus/Commission: Yes