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Dredging Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

COOK

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site +1

$19.96/hr

Prepares food by peeling, chopping, grinding, paring, cutting, slicing, dicing, pureeing, dredging ... Knowledge of operating and cleaning food service equipment, characteristics of various foods, and ...

Dredging Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$11

$21

$30

How much do dredging operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for dredging operator in Colorado is $21.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $23.27 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.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Dredging Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Dredging Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Dredging Operator job openings in Colorado as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 32% In-person, and 68% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,888 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Civil Designer - Power (Multiple Locations)

Civil Designer - Power (Multiple Locations)

Burns & McDonnell

Denver, CO • On-site

$100K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 77 rated construction


Job description

Description
A Staff Civil Designer will perform various phases of planning, proposal preparation, site evaluations, analytical designs, report preparation, specifications, and preparation of construction documentation and environmental plans as part of a project team. This position will work on various projects with a diverse portfolio of project types and clients.
  • Design civil engineering projects including site design, land development, roads, storm drainage systems, storm water management facilities, water and sanitary sewer utility design, sediment and erosion control, and traffic control, airports, and facility design.
  • Develop drawings for production work including problem analysis, design layout and calculations on non-routine assignments of substantial variety and complexity.
  • Execute variety of civil design assignments using prescribed methods and standard techniques including drawing sequence and presentation, sizing various system components and refining rough sketches.
  • Execute changes to designs or sketches and mark-ups on ongoing projects.
  • Analyze reports, maps, drawings, tests, and other topographical and geologic data to plan and design projects.
  • Responsible for incorporating design codes and specifications related to design requirements.
  • Review design drawings for quality assurance within scope, budget and schedule.
  • Report volume calculations for excavation, dredging, and upland site grading.
  • Review schedules, budgets and project criteria into civil design and layouts.
  • Responsible for revisions of project drawings, plot files and project-related information storage in a logical and well-structured manner.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor Degree in drafting technology or related field and 7 years related experience required. Or,
  • Associate Degree and 8 years related experience required. Or,
  • 9 years progressive detailing and design experience required.
  • Expert understanding of design software such as: AutoCAD, Civil 3D, MicroStation, and Excel to develop the design deliverables.
  • Expert knowledge in design, calculations and design systems.
  • Expert knowledge in the theory and practices of civil discipline; competent in the fundamental concepts of other disciplines as they relate to the assigned discipline; and capable of operating related discipline design software necessary to execute production tasks.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with others (Project Managers, Engineers and Designers) in a multi-discipline project team environment to resolve design or drawing issues as appropriate and to accomplish objectives.
  • Excellent written & verbal communication skills.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.

Compensation
$100,000.00-155,000.00 Yearly
The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.
Benefits
Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. Burns & McDonnell's PTO program includes the paid sick leave entitlements provided under the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA). Additionally, as part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Computer Aided Drafting & Design
Primary Location US-MO-Kansas City
Other Locations US-CO-Denver
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 5 % of the Time
Req ID: 254969
Job Hire Type Experienced #LI-MJ #PWR

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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