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Dredging Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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How much do dredging operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 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 jobs pay $2000 a day?

Dredging operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; their pay depends on experience, location, and project scope, but high-paying roles in this field are rare. Highly specialized or supervisory positions in heavy construction or offshore dredging may reach such daily rates, especially with extensive certifications and overtime. Most jobs in this industry pay hourly or salary-based, with top-tier roles earning significant but less than $2000 daily on average.

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.

Which job is best for a 40 year old woman?

A dredging operator role can be suitable for a 40-year-old woman if she has the necessary skills, physical fitness, and certifications such as OSHA safety training. Many jobs in the industrial and construction sectors value experience and reliability, making this a viable option. Flexibility in scheduling and a focus on safety are important considerations for this role.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Dredging Operator can potentially earn around $10,000 per month with experience and specialized skills, especially in offshore or large-scale projects. These roles often require certifications, physical stamina, and knowledge of heavy machinery but do not necessarily require a college degree.

How much money do dredgers 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 can earn higher wages, especially in offshore or specialized environments.

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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Dredging Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dredging Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Dredging Field Engineer - Weeks Marine

Dredging Field Engineer - Weeks Marine

Kiewit Corporation

New Orleans, LA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Kiewit Corporation rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 78 rated construction

Job description

Requisition ID: 180469 

Job Level: Entry Level 

Home District/Group: Weeks Marine - Dredging 

Department: Field Operations 

Market: Marine 

Employment Type: Full Time 

Position Overview

As a Field Engineer, you will be an integral part of our marine based Dredging Division. In this position, you will utilize engineering principles taking part in project layout, topographic and hydrographic surveying, production guidance, monitoring, reporting, and dredging quality control. You will have the opportunity to collaborate and work with other talented team members. 

District Overview

Established in 1919, Weeks Marine, Inc. is one of the largest marine, dredging and tunneling contractors in North America and has successfully completed projects throughout North and South America, from inland waterways to offshore sites in the Pacific and the Atlantic. Weeks Marine has three key divisions - Construction, Dredging and Marine Services - which are bolstered by three major subsidiaries, Healy Tibbitts Builders, Inc., McNally International, Inc. and North American Aggregates. 
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 based out of the Gulf Coast region. This position works on an 19/9 rotational schedule and requires frequent travel. 

Responsibilities
  • Commitment to an incident and injury free workplace
  • Ability to read and comprehend project plans and specifications
  • Take part in project layout and file design
  • Dredge cut and fill planning and management
  • Provide accurate vessel positioning to ensure dredging operations take place within the defined permit limits, as per contract
  • Coordinate survey activities with the Project Engineer to meet schedule requirements
  • Collect and process hydrographic and topographic survey data to be used to calculate volumes of materials removed or placed
  • Learn the fundamentals of dredge production utilizing proprietary production tools and analysis programs to aid in optimizing project performance and providing solutions to complex dredging projects
  • Dredge production guidance, monitoring, and reporting
  • Survey subcontractor management
  • Ensure Quality Control of the dredging process
  • Responsible for the inventory and maintenance of survey and assigned equipment
Qualifications
  • Entry Level Position for candidates with target backgrounds in Civil Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Construction Management, or similar field of study
  • 1-3 years' experience in the dredging or survey industry in lieu of a bachelor's degree
  • Ability to be trained to utilize current surveying equipment and techniques
  • Ability to accurately read contract drawings
  • Ability to perform earthwork volume computations
  • Proficient skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD, Trimble, and Hypack software preferred
  • Ability to work 84-hour work week. 19 days on, 9 days off
  • Ability to live aboard vessel for full rotation
  • Willingness and ability to travel required
Working Conditions

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.

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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