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Dredging Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

When dredging is not required, will be repairing trolleys, or working in the shop. * Candidates will be required to drive Fleet and/or Tyson owned equipment. Be available for emergency operations ...

Dredging Operator 4

Springdale, AR · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

When dredging is not required, will be repairing trolleys, or working in the shop. * Candidates will be required to drive Fleet and/or Tyson owned equipment. Be available for emergency operations ...

Dredging Operator 4

Dakota City, NE · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

When dredging is not required, will be repairing trolleys, or working in the shop. * Candidates will be required to drive Fleet and/or Tyson owned equipment. Be available for emergency operations ...

Dredging Operator 4

Dakota City, NE

$21 - $27.75/hr

When dredging is not required, will be repairing trolleys, or working in the shop. * Candidates will be required to drive Fleet and/or Tyson owned equipment. Be available for emergency operations ...

Operator 2

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

While dredging experience is highly valued, the industry involves specialized equipment, systems, and operating conditions that require continuous learning and adaptability. Success in this role ...

Operator 2

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

While dredging experience is highly valued, the industry involves specialized equipment, systems, and operating conditions that require continuous learning and adaptability. Success in this role ...

While dredging experience is highly valued, the industry involves specialized equipment, systems, and operating conditions that require continuous learning and adaptability. Success in this role ...

United Dredging, based out of Ellsworth, WI, has immediate full-time openings forHeavy Equipment Operators with 5+ years of experience, who will travel to dredge aggregate material with our Skyline ...

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Dredging Operator information

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$10

$20

$29

How much do dredging operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for dredging operator in the United States is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Dredging Operator, you need knowledge of dredging procedures, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy machinery, GPS navigation systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills set outstanding operators apart. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible dredging operations.

What are some of the common challenges faced by Dredging Operators on the job?

Dredging Operators often work in dynamic and sometimes harsh environments, where weather conditions and shifting underwater terrain can present daily challenges. They must be vigilant about equipment maintenance to prevent malfunctions and ensure safety, as dredging machinery operates in wet, corrosive settings. Additionally, operators must carefully coordinate with project managers, marine engineers, and other crew members to align on project goals and adhere to environmental regulations. Developing strong communication skills and adaptability is key to overcoming these workplace challenges and contributing effectively to the team.

What are Dredging Operators?

Dredging Operators are skilled professionals who operate equipment used to remove sand, gravel, or other materials from the bottom of bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, or harbors. Their work is essential for maintaining navigable waterways, deepening channels, and supporting construction projects near water. Dredging Operators monitor machinery, adjust equipment settings, and ensure safe and efficient operation throughout the dredging process. They also perform routine maintenance on the equipment and follow safety regulations to protect themselves and the environment.

What is the difference between Dredging Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectDredging OperatorExcavator Operator
CertificationsTypically requires dredging-specific certifications and machinery operation licensesRequires general excavator operation licenses and safety certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily on water bodies, ports, and dredging sitesWorks mainly on construction sites, quarries, and land-based projects
Industry UsageUsed in maritime, port development, and waterway maintenanceUsed in construction, mining, and land development

The main difference between a Dredging Operator and an Excavator Operator lies in their work environment and specialized certifications. Dredging Operators focus on underwater and waterway projects, requiring specific skills and licenses, while Excavator Operators work mainly on land-based construction sites. Both roles involve heavy machinery operation but serve different industry needs.

More about Dredging Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Dredging Operator jobs? Cities with the most Dredging Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dredging Operator jobs? The most popular types of Dredging Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Dredging Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Dredging Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Dredging Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 33% In-person, and 67% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Dredging Operator 4

$28.45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Tyson Foods rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Tyson Foods

Based on 507 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.0

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.0 out of 10

Food and drinks producers average

Based on 11,314 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

The best things about working at Tyson Foods

  • 92%

    92% say their health insurance is affordable

    say their health insurance is affordable

  • 82%

    82% say they get paid time off

    say they get paid time off

  • 81%

    81% say their managers don’t change their shifts at short notice

    say their managers don’t change their shifts at short notice

Featured by Tyson Foods, based on 507 Breakroom Quiz responses from their frontline employees


Job description

Job Details:

SUMMARY:

  • Responsible for the proper land application of wastewater treatment plant bio solids and repairing production trolleys.
  • Duties may include the setup operation, maintenance, and repair of dredging equipment, and trolley repair equipment; daily monitoring of equipment fluids and lubricants during dredging operations; ensure the operation of dredging equipment is performed in a safe and proper manner.
  • Supervision of shift operations that may include some night shifts or as needed and other duties as assigned by dredging supervisor. When dredging is not required, will be repairing trolleys, or working in the shop.
  • Candidates will be required to drive Fleet and/or Tyson owned equipment. Be available for emergency operations when needed.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Agricultural background preferred.
  • Must have a High School diploma
  • Must have working experience in one or more of the following: general equipment repair, maintenance, engine repair, welding, and farming background that includes knowledge and experience with agricultural equipment operations equipment repair and maintenance.
  • Must be self-motivated and able to work without direct supervision; must have & maintain valid Driver’s License
  • Strong verbal/written communication skills
  • Must be willing to participate in random drug screening to operate company owned equipment & Fleet vehicles.

Physical Requirements:

Work requires physical strength and agility necessary to perform lifting of fifty (50) lbs. or more.

Travel:

  • Extensive seasonal travel for project work at company locations.
  • Work at Tyson locations will entail working a minimum of twelve (12) plus hour days for eleven (11) days with a turnaround of three (3) days off.  NOTE: Location time may be extended due to weather and project needs.

Non-Travel periods: 

Work will be Four (4), ten (10) hour days, Monday through Thursday.

Here at Tyson Foods, we offer a full range of benefits and perks including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Telehealth services
  • Well-Being Support Programs
  • FSA and HSA available
  • 401k
  • Stock Purchase Plan
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Short-Term & Long- Term Disability
  • Fully Funded Education
  • Discount Program

MUST PROVIDE A RESUME TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION

Relocation Assistance Eligible:

No

Work Shift:

A Shift (United States of America)

Pay Range/Rate:

$28.45

Incentives:

Annual Incentive Plan:

No

Long-Term Incentive Plan:

No

Certain roles at Tyson require background checks. If you are offered a position that requires a background check you will be provided additional documentation to complete once an offer has been extended.

Any listed amounts represent the base pay range. Additional compensation may be available for this position based on various factors such as shift differentials, standby/on-call, overtime, premiums, extra shift incentives, or bonuses. Pay is just one part of Tyson’s total compensation package.

Tyson will develop an offer based on a candidate's or team member’s relevant skills and capabilities, the market data for the role described in this requisition, internal equity, and other information relevant to the candidate and role.

Hourly Applicants ONLY -You must complete the task after submitting your application to provide additional information to be considered for employment.

Tyson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, national origin, color, religion, age, genetics, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.

CCPA Notice. If you are a California resident, and would like to learn more about what categories of personal information we collect when you apply for this job, and how we may use that information, please read our CCPA Job Applicant Notice at Collection, click here.


Working at Tyson Foods

Perks for frontline workers

From Tyson Foods, via Breakroom

  • Pay: Competitive Pay and Benefits

  • Benefits: Health, vision, and dental Insurance on day one of full-time employment

  • Education: Fully-funded education for all US-based Team Members!

  • Financial Benefits: 401(k) & Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)

  • Career Growth: Grow your career with an industry leader, and Fortune 100 company!

  • Safety: Committed to workplace safety!

  • Time Off: Generous paid time off / earned time off for Team Members

  • Work-Life Balance: Includes Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), paid parental leave, discount programs, adoption assistance, etc.

What to expect from working at Tyson Foods

From Tyson Foods

About Tyson Foods, in their own words

From Tyson Foods

Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) is a world-class food company and recognized leader in protein. Founded in 1935 by John W. Tyson, it has grown under four generations of family leadership. The Company is unified by this purpose: Tyson Foods. We Feed the World Like Family™ and has a broad portfolio of iconic products and brands including Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Ball Park®, Wright®, State Fair®, Aidells® and ibp®. Tyson Foods is dedicated to bringing high-quality food to every table in the world, safely and affordably, now and for future generations. Headquartered in Springdale, Arkansas, the company had approximately 138,000 team members as of September 2024.

Company values

From Tyson Foods

We are a company of people engaged in the production of food, seeking to pursue truth and integrity, and committed to creating value for our shareholders, our customers, our team members, and our communities.

Who we are: We strive to be honorable and operate with integrity. We strive to be faith-friendly and inclusive. We strive to serve as stewards of the resources entrusted to us. We strive to provide a safe work environment.

What we do: We feed our families, the nation, and the world with trusted food products. We serve as stewards of the animals, land, and environment entrusted to us. We strive to provide a safe work environment for our team members.

How we do it: We strive to earn consistent and satisfactory profits for our shareholders and to invest in our people, products, and processes. We strive to operate with integrity and trust in all we do. We strive to honor God and be respectful of each other, our customers, and other stakeholders.

"From the beginning, our company has been built on faith, family, and hard work. That tradition, our Core Values, and 'doing what's right' are deeply embedded in our culture."

John Tyson, Chairman


What Tyson Foods employees say

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