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Dredging Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

... dredging and marine construction operations Assist with dredge pipeline setup, movement, and maintenance Perform pressure washing, site cleanup, and equipment maintenance Assist operators and crew ...

... dredging and marine construction operations Assist with dredge pipeline setup, movement, and maintenance Perform pressure washing, site cleanup, and equipment maintenance Assist operators and crew ...

Shoreman

Leesburg, FL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... dredging and marine construction operations • Assist with dredge pipeline setup, movement, and maintenance • Perform pressure washing, site cleanup, and equipment maintenance • Assist operators ...

Diesel Mechanic 2

Ellsworth, WI · On-site

$24 - $34/hr

Diesel Mechanic 2 Position Summary United Dredging is seeking a skilled and dependable Diesel ... Collaborate with equipment operators and field personnel to identify and resolve performance or ...

Shoreman

Mobile, AL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... dredging and marine construction operations · Assist with dredge pipeline setup, movement, and maintenance · Perform pressure washing, site cleanup, and equipment maintenance · Assist operators ...

Shoreman

Leesburg, FL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... dredging and marine construction operations · Assist with dredge pipeline setup, movement, and maintenance · Perform pressure washing, site cleanup, and equipment maintenance · Assist operators ...

Shoreman

Mobile, AL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... dredging and marine construction operations Assist with dredge pipeline setup, movement, and maintenance Perform pressure washing, site cleanup, and equipment maintenance Assist operators and crew ...

Shoreman

Brunswick, GA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... dredging and marine construction operations Assist with dredge pipeline setup, movement, and maintenance Perform pressure washing, site cleanup, and equipment maintenance Assist operators and crew ...

Shoreman

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... dredging and marine construction operations · Assist with dredge pipeline setup, movement, and maintenance · Perform pressure washing, site cleanup, and equipment maintenance · Assist operators ...

Shoreman

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... dredging and marine construction operations Assist with dredge pipeline setup, movement, and maintenance Perform pressure washing, site cleanup, and equipment maintenance Assist operators and crew ...

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Dredging Operator information

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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.
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 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 - Bull Gang Superintendent

Weeks Dredging - Bull Gang Superintendent

Kiewit

Covington, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 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: 181153
Job Level: Mid Level
Home District/Group: Weeks Marine - Dredging
Department: Field Supervision
Market: Marine
Employment Type: Full Time
Position Overview
The Bull gang Superintendent is responsible for overseeing the operations, compliance, and safety of all assigned employees and company assets:
The Bull Gang Superintendent is responsible for: Managing all on-site activities for Bull Gang while prioritizing Safety, Environmental compliance, and Production. This role ensures that all operations, whether offshore or coastal areas, are executed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with maritime regulations and company standards.
This position will report to the Bull gang Manager.
Work Schedule: 22 days on and 20 days off; this includes 1 day of handover.
District Overview
Weeks, a subsidiary of Kiewit Corporation, is an industry leader in dredging, providing turnkey services throughout North America. Dredging is vital to maintain our waterways, which keep our way of life moving, and to fortify our infrastructure and coastlines. Weeks provides a cohesive dredging services lifecycle, specializing in capital and maintenance dredging for deep or shallow draft navigation in addition to coastal restoration and protection.
Location
Covington, Louisiana. This position will be on a rotating schedule out on specific job sites.
Responsibilities
• Plans and supervises all assigned employees to include method of construction, manpower levels, material quantities, work schedules and ensures all necessary reporting requirements are met.
• Conducts pre-construction planning sessions and meetings with project site team members.
• Manages and Oversees Start Cards, AHA's, LSA's, Hot Work Permits, Weekly Payrolls, Daily Progress Reports, and Requisitions for Parts and Materials.
• Ensures that all assigned employees comply with project site procedures and Weeks Marine safety programs.
• Documents and communicates safety concerns and violations while ensuring compliance of all WMI Company and Safety Policies and regulations.
• Daily visual inspections of all equipment. Daily DVI reports, SSCP are done daily, Monthly VGP reports, Weekly inspections, and Yearly inspections on all equipment as required and carried out by competent and reliable people. LSA's and site walks are done daily. Housekeeping is kept up and the workspace environment is clear of debris and tripping hazards.
• The superintendent is responsible for making the daily work plan and reviewed with crew and support groups before any work is performed. This includes 3rd party tugs onsite.
Qualifications
• 5 years of dredging or marine construction experience
• 2 years of supervisory experience
• High School Diploma or GED certificate
• Proficient knowledge of equipment related to the marine construction industry
• This position requires fluent use of the verbal and written language
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.
There's no limit to what you'll work on at Weeks Marine. With marine construction and dredging projects across North America, you'll be challenged and have more opportunities to grow from Day One.
At Weeks Marine, you'll develop multidiscipline capabilities to grow your knowledge of marine infrastructure construction, waterway maintenance and creation, tunneling and other environmental coastal protection projects - all while helping people across the globe live better.
If you're looking for a career that can take you places, look no further.

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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