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Dredging Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kiewit Corporation

Weeks Dredging - SSHO

Houma, LA · On-site

Weeks Marine - Dredging Department: Safety Market: Marine Employment Type: Full Time Position ... Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work ...

Viking Dredging

Deckhand - Land and Marine

Palacios, TX · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

This position primarily assists equipment operators and field crews in executing dredging, shoreline protection, and marine construction work. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, attentive ...

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Dredging Operator information

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$10

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$29

How much do dredging operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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.

How to become a dredge operator?

To become a dredge operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training in operating dredging equipment. Many employers require certification in heavy equipment operation and safety, and on-the-job training is common to gain experience with specific machinery and environmental regulations.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Dredging operators can earn around $4,000 per week with experience and specialized skills, especially in large-scale projects or offshore environments. These roles often require certifications, knowledge of heavy machinery, and safety training, but typically do not require a college degree. High-paying opportunities are usually found in the construction, maritime, or environmental sectors where skilled equipment operation is in demand.

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.

How much money do dredgers make?

Dredging operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in operating dredging equipment can earn higher wages, especially in industrial or offshore environments.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Dredging operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, certifications, or significant experience. Most dredging operators earn a median salary well below that threshold, with top earners possibly reaching six-figure incomes in certain regions or with extensive experience.

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 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.
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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:
What job categories do people searching Dredging Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Dredging Operator jobs are:
Dredging Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dredging Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Weeks Dredging - SSHO

Weeks Dredging - SSHO

Kiewit Corporation

Houma, LA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Kiewit Corporation rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 135 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 79 rated construction

Job description

Requisition ID: 180835 

Job Level: Mid Level 

Home District/Group: Weeks Marine - Dredging 

Department: Safety 

Market: Marine 

Employment Type: Full Time 

Position Overview

The Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) position in the Dredging Division coordinates and administers Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) activities on all Weeks Marine, Inc. (WMI) project locations in accordance with company and regulatory guidelines.   

District Overview

Weeks Marine's vast reach and deep expertise, combined with the sheer size and diversity of its equipment fleet, enables the company to serve as a one-stop shop for clients in both the private and governmental sectors, providing exceptional customer service, environmental sensitivity, operational efficiency, and a long-standing commitment to safety. Weeks Marine is headquartered in Cranford, New Jersey, and manages a network of regional offices in Louisiana, Texas, Hawaii, Guam, Ontario, and Nova Scotia.

Location

This position will be worked on a 17 & 11 rotational schedule, meaning 17 days at work and 11 days off, 12-hour shifts. The position will be worked on WMI's dredging projects spanning the eastern seaboard and gulf coast of America.

Responsibilities

    Understand basic principles of Dredging operations on projects and has the ability to review and decipher company policies/procedures and enforce them in conjunction with project personnel 
    Assist the SSHO Supervisor and Dredging HSE Manager in the implementation of the WMI Accident Prevention Plan (APP), Activity Hazard Analysis (AHA) development, as well as site/ contractual client specific HSE policies for project locations

    Ability to communicate HSE concerns to all levels of project field and office management daily

    Perform hazard identification and analyses, inspections, incident management and investigation, reporting, per WMI and contractual requirements   

    Assist the SSHO Supervisor and Dredging Training Administrator, and/ or Dredging HSE Manager in identifying, communicating, and implementing all annual training needs for project personnel and conduct training sessions including site-specific HSE indoctrination and other applicable requirements.  

    Acquire, maintain, and deliver up to date records, incident reports, training records, in conjunction with Corporate Risk and Dredging HSE requirements.  

    Ability to progressively learn all disciplines of dredging operations including hydraulic cutterhead, hopper, and clamshell dredging and become familiar with complex dredging operations and maintenance.  
 

Qualifications

    5+ years of cumulative construction or general industry related safety experience, within the last ten years, managing or implementing a SOH program on projects similar in industry type, size, and complexity. 
    Associate or bachelor's degree in Occupational Safety, Industrial Hygiene, or Environmental Sciences preferred
    Ability to work rotational shift 17 days on; 11 days off, 12-hour shifts, additional hours as needed 
    Proficient skills in standard office software packages
    Ability to maintain competency through 8-hours of documented formal, on-line, or self-study HSE coursework annually
    This position requires fluent use of the verbal and written English language

Does the candidate have 24 hours of documented formal classroom or online SOH-related training within the past five years? Does the candidate have the ability to maintain competency by taking 24 hours every three-year period?  The 24 hours can be multiple classes combined.
Required Certifications or Licenses 
OSHA 30 certification in construction or general industry 
    EM 385-1-1 40-Hour Compliance Course  
    CPR/FA/AED responder's certification  
    Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) 
    Valid US Passport 
    Valid Driver's License with a relatively clean driving record 

Physical Requirements 
Ability to tolerate rough seas, vibrations, and harsh weather conditions  
    Ability to remain in seated stationary position for long periods of time 
    Ability to navigate around office to use equipment as needed 
    Ability to lift and carry miscellaneous equipment, supplies and parts up to 50 pounds unassisted 
    While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, climb ladders w/ capacity limits of 300lbs., push, pull, bend, kneel, crawl, stoop and/ or sit

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.
 

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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

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