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Dredging Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient mobilization, operation, assisting in ... Primary Responsibilities Safely operate dredging equipment in accordance with project requirements ...

The operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient mobilization, operation, assisting in ... Primary Responsibilities Safely operate dredging equipment in accordance with project requirements ...

The operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient mobilization, operation, assisting in ... Primary Responsibilities · Safely operate dredging equipment in accordance with project ...

The operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient mobilization, operation, assisting in ... Primary Responsibilities · Safely operate dredging equipment in accordance with project ...

The operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient mobilization, operation, assisting in ... Primary Responsibilities Safely operate dredging equipment in accordance with project requirements ...

The operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient mobilization, operation, assisting in ... Primary Responsibilities • Safely operate dredging equipment in accordance with project ...

The operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient mobilization, operation, assisting in ... Primary Responsibilities · Safely operate dredging equipment in accordance with project ...

The operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient mobilization, operation, assisting in ... Primary Responsibilities · Safely operate dredging equipment in accordance with project ...

The operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient mobilization, operation, assisting in ... Primary Responsibilities Safely operate dredging equipment in accordance with project requirements ...

The operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient mobilization, operation, assisting in ... Primary Responsibilities · Safely operate dredging equipment in accordance with project ...

The operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient mobilization, operation, assisting in ... Primary Responsibilities Safely operate dredging equipment in accordance with project requirements ...

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Dredging Operator information

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$10

$20

$29

How much do dredging operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 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.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Dredging Operator jobs?

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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,738 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Weeks Dredging - Site Manager - Covington

Kiewit

Covington, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Kiewit Corporation rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 137 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 80 rated construction


Job description

Requisition ID: 181001
Job Level: Senior Level
Home District/Group: Weeks Marine - Dredging
Department: Field Operations
Market: Transportation
Employment Type: Full Time
Position Overview
The Site Manager is responsible for safely and efficiently supervising dredging operations and related dredging construction project activities. The Site Manager reports to the Project Manager while assigned to his/her respective project.
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
This position will be on a 17/11 rotational project. Candidate's can be based out of anywhere as long as they are okay to travel and the rotational schedule.
Responsibilities
  • Project Oversight
  • Direct day-to-day dredging operations (hopper/hydraulic/mechanical dredges, support vessels, disposal sites).
  • Ensure adherence to project plans, technical specifications, and contract requirements.
  • Team & Resource Management
  • Supervise crews, equipment operators, and subcontractors.
  • Coordinate scheduling, shifts, and resource allocation.
  • Review dredge production and work with Engineering team to improve productivity.
  • Safety & Compliance
  • Enforce safety internal protocols and external (OSHA, USACE EM 385-1-1, Coast Guard, local maritime regs).
  • Ensure environmental compliance (turbidity, endangered species monitoring, disposal methods).
  • Stakeholder Communication
  • Liaise with project owners (e.g., USACE, port authorities), inspectors, and engineers.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Yes
Qualifications
• 5+ years of related experience including dredging and/or marine construction
• Supervisory experience preferred
• Ability to work 17 days on, 11 days off, revised as necessary
• Willingness and ability to travel nationwide
• This position requires fluent use of the verbal and written English language
Required Certifications or Licenses
• Valid Driver's License with clean driving record
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.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
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