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Dredge Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Martin Marietta

Senior Operator Dredge

Sanger, CA · On-site

$32.55 - $47.20/hr

Description JOB SUMMARY The Dredge Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and productive operation of heavy excavation and material handling equipment,andnbsp; in support of aggregate ...

Martin Marietta

Senior Operator Dredge

Sanger, CA

$32.55 - $47.20/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Dredge Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and productive operation of heavy excavation and material handling equipment,andnbsp; in support of aggregate production ...

Martin Marietta

Senior Operator Dredge

Sanger, CA

$32.55 - $47.20/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Dredge Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and productive operation of heavy excavation and material handling equipment,andnbsp; in support of aggregate production ...

Martin Marietta Materials

Senior Operator Dredge

Sanger, CA · On-site

$32.55 - $47.20/hr

Description JOB SUMMARY The Dredge Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and productive operation of heavy excavation and material handling equipment,andnbsp; in support of aggregate ...

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How much do dredge operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 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.

How much does a dredger 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 large-scale projects can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Dredge operators in specialized maritime or construction environments can sometimes earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-demand projects or overtime. Such high daily pay is typically associated with skilled trades, union jobs, or roles requiring heavy equipment operation in remote or hazardous locations.

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 is a dredge operator job description?

A dredge operator is responsible for operating and maintaining dredging equipment used to remove sediment and debris from water bodies to maintain navigable channels, harbors, or construction sites. They monitor equipment performance, follow safety protocols, and may need certifications such as OSHA or equipment-specific training. The job typically involves working outdoors in various weather conditions and requires attention to detail and technical skills.

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 jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Dredge operators can earn around $10,000 per month with experience, especially in industries like construction, mining, or maritime work. These roles often require specialized skills, certifications, and physical endurance but typically do not require a college degree. High-paying positions in skilled trades and certain transportation jobs can also reach this income level without formal higher education.
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Dredge Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dredge Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,935 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Dredge Operator 2 (Statewide)-20050046

Dredge Operator 2 (Statewide)-20050046

Ohio Department of Aging

Millersport, OH • On-site

$24.63/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted yesterday

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 2 within the Division of Parks & Watercraft, headquartered at Buckeye Lake State Park , assigned to Fairfield county. The address is 2905 Liebs Island Rd, Millersport, OH 43046 . To learn more about Buckeye Lake State Park please visit Buckeye Lake State Park | Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Please note applicant will need a CDL A with no restrictions. This is a travel position and will travel weekly due to park needs.
What you will do...
  • Operate heavy equipment to maintain dredge material relocation areas (DMRA's) & lake improvement projects.
  • Remove sediment & aquatic vegetation from waterways.
  • Operate dredge related equipment such as tandem dump truck, pickup truck.
  • Starting hourly pay of $22.29/hr with multiple pay increases over your first 3.5 years of service with an end salary of $24.63/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
12 mos. trg. or 12 mos. exp. in heavy equipment operation & maintenance; 6 mos. trg or 6 mos. exp. in equipment safety practices; valid commercial driver's license.
-Or 12 mos. exp. as Dredge Operator 1, 54421; 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

View All Ohio Department of Aging Jobs

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