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Dredging Operator Jobs in Bluffton, SC (NOW HIRING)

Dredging Operator information

See Bluffton, SC salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do dredging operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for dredging operator in Bluffton, SC is $18.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dredging operator?

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 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 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 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.

How much do dredging operators make?

Dredging 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 heavy machinery may earn higher wages, especially in maritime or construction environments.

What are popular job titles related to Dredging Operator jobs in Bluffton, SC?

For Dredging Operator jobs in Bluffton, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dredging Operator jobs in Bluffton, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Dredging Operator jobs in Bluffton, SC are:

What cities near Bluffton, SC are hiring for Dredging Operator jobs?

Cities near Bluffton, SC with the most Dredging Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Dredging Operator job openings in Bluffton, SC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 87% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,885 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Safety Manager - TIC Marine and Heavy Civil

Kiewit

Savannah, GA • On-site

$77K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Kiewit Corporation rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 140 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 80 rated construction


Job description

Requisition ID: 181892
Job Level: Mid Level
Home District/Group: Marine & Heavy Civil District
Department: Safety
Market: Transportation
Employment Type: Full Time
Position Overview
As a Safety Manager, you will manage our Health, Safety and Environmental programs at the project level, driving a safety-oriented approach to work. Must be a self-starter, highly motivated with the ability to work with minimal supervision. This position requires someone with the ability to quickly learn and understand various processes regarding our policies, procedures and software programs.
District Overview
TIC Marine & Heavy Civil self-performs marine projects with company-owned equipment for both the public and private sector, historically focusing on the southeast coast. Our construction operations are supported by our in-house equipment department, fabrication facility and machine shop to streamline projects for our owners. Using our own equipment and fabrication facility allow us to maintain control over critical scopes, ensuring that the project stays on schedule. Past heavy-civil experiences include cast in place concrete, steel, box beam, flat slab, railroad trestle and arch bridges, bridge widening, bascule and swing bridges, box culverts, storm drainage, erosion control, dike and levee construction, concrete paving, tunnels and sound barriers. Our Marine experience includes lock and dam repairs, docks, demolition, Navy wharfs, water intake structures, steel, concrete, composite and timber piling, fender systems, dolphins, piers, dredging, marinas and LNG facilities.
Location
One of the many things that makes Kiewit's culture unique is that we go where the work is, which exposes your career to abundant opportunities. We relocate our teams based on the work that is available, combined with the development plans, skill sets and career goals of each team member. This means your Kiewit adventure is custom-designed to meet our shared needs.
Responsibilities
• Communicate between Kiewit and client management regarding safety matters
• Develop complete understanding of contract plans and specifications.
• Responsible for overseeing incident investigations reporting and follow through with corrective actions
• Interact with demanding clients and maintain a positive relationships with the client team
• Routinely inspect the facilities, machinery, and safety equipment in order to identify and correct potential hazards, and to ensure safety regulation compliance.
• Routinely monitor the workforce for unsafe behaviors and coach employees on the correct behaviors when observed.
• Write, organize and implement the jobsite safety plans.
• Perform daily reviews and inspection of the jobsite to assure compliance with federal, provincial, client and Kiewit policies.
• Coordinate and present safety training to support KOS and client requirements, including planning, documentation, and presentation.
• Attend the weekly general safety meeting, weekly supervisor safety meeting, and daily Tool Box meetings, as required.
• Coordinate with home office Safety Department on overall program, project training needs, injury management, citation management, OH&S reporting requirements, and other application matters.
Qualifications
• Degree in Occupational Health and Safety or Industrial or equivalent degree/work experience
• Strong work ethic; good interpersonal and organizational skills
• Must be able to act independently with little or no supervision and work collaboratively on a team environment
• Ability to operate a standard personal computer as well as knowledge of and experience with standard office computer software.
• Ability to carry out duties in varying work environments including wide ranging weather conditions and terrain.
• Knowledge of construction safety, current Federal and OSHA requirements is preferred
Other Requirements:
  • Regular, reliable attendance
  • Work productively and meet deadlines timely
  • Communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environment.
  • Perform work safely and effectively. Understand and follow oral and written instructions, including warning signs, equipment use, and other policies.
  • Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required.
  • May work at various different locations and conditions may vary.

We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, and generous paid time off.
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
At TIC, we only hire the best - and our family mentality will drive you to continue to be the best. We believe in the benefits of investing in our people. Around here, you'll constantly increase your knowledge, sharpen your skills and gain new experiences.
Whether it's cement for our sidewalks and driveways; aluminum for our automobiles; wood pellets for our grills; paper plates for our picnics; food for our pets or the beverages we consume with our friends, our longstanding work in the industrial market touches the tiny details in our daily lives.
If you want a career that can make an impact, look no further.
We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, paid parental and maternity leave, and generous paid time off.

What Kiewit Corporation employees say

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About Kiewit

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kiewit Infrastructure Engineering's Design-Build team is driving clients to turn to Kiewit during all stages of design-build projects. Through our integrated design and construction approach, our multi-disciplinary team works together to improve schedule, control costs and minimize risk. Our construction-focused engineers work collaboratively with our estimators and builders to design solutions that are innovative, constructible, and designed with a focus on safety. Clients benefit from the proven processes and tools used by Kiewit to minimize project risk. We are an in-house resource that supports projects throughout the company. Our staff shares experiences gained, innovative concepts, and best practices for all projects that we support.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1884