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Dredging Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator - Dredging Operations Shape the River. Build Your Future. Are you seeking a rewarding career where your hard work is valued and your well-being is prioritized? Join our dynamic ...

Equipment Operator - Dredging Operations Shape the River. Build Your Future. Are you seeking a rewarding career where your hard work is valued and your well-being is prioritized? Join our dynamic ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tug boats and marine vessels supporting heavy civil, bridge, dredging, marine construction ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tug boats and marine vessels supporting heavy civil, bridge, dredging, marine construction ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tug boats and marine vessels supporting heavy civil, bridge, dredging, marine construction ...

Position Summary The Construction Tug Boat Captain is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of tug boats and marine vessels supporting heavy civil, bridge, dredging, marine construction ...

... dredging, and cleaning service projects. Will also be responsible for leading one or more large projects ranging from $100,000 - $5,000,000. This position manages a team of operators, leads, and ...

... dredging, and cleaning service projects. Will also be responsible for leading one or more large projects ranging from $100,000 - $5,000,000. This position manages a team of operators, leads, and ...

Operations Manager

Jones, OK · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

... dredging, and cleaning service projects. Will also be responsible for leading one or more large projects ranging from $100,000 - $5,000,000. This position manages a team of operators, leads, and ...

Dredging information

See Oklahoma salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do dredging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for dredging in Oklahoma is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $26.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is dredging?

Dredging is the process of removing sediment, debris, and other materials from the bottom of bodies of water such as rivers, harbors, and canals. Professionals in dredging operate specialized equipment to excavate these materials, helping to maintain navigable waterways, prevent flooding, and support construction or environmental restoration projects. Their work ensures safe passage for ships, protects shorelines, and can also contribute to land reclamation and wetland restoration efforts.

What does a dredging operator do?

Dredging jobs focus on the removal of sediment from water routes, including streams, rivers, lakes, and artificially created areas. In this role, you operate a large piece of equipment known as a dredge. You also coordinate with a safety engineer and otherwise help ensure marine traffic can continue to work as normal. Many regions also dredge areas that host fish and wildlife, helping to ensure that the area remains safe for aquatic life. Outside of waterway cleaning, people sometimes hire dredges to create new waterways, excavate areas for future work, reclaim damaged areas, deepen existing waterways, or perform other maintenance. Dredging jobs often require traveling to different areas to work as needed, so you may be away from home for extended periods while on the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dredging operator?

To thrive as a Dredging Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, knowledge of dredging techniques, and relevant certifications such as a heavy equipment operator license or maritime credentials. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, dredging machinery, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help operators adapt to changing conditions and maintain project efficiency. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe operations, minimizing environmental impact, and meeting project goals in marine and waterway construction.

What are some of the common challenges faced by professionals working in dredging operations?

Professionals in dredging often face challenges such as working in variable weather conditions, maintaining equipment in harsh marine environments, and adhering to strict environmental and safety regulations. Dredging projects can also require coordination with multiple stakeholders, including port authorities, marine engineers, and environmental agencies, which makes strong communication skills essential. Additionally, project timelines can be impacted by unexpected technical issues or regulatory changes, so adaptability and problem-solving abilities are highly valued in this role.

What is the difference between Dredging vs Excavation?

AspectDredgingExcavation
Primary PurposeRemoving sediment and debris from water bodiesDigging and removing earth from land surfaces
Work EnvironmentWaterways, ports, harborsConstruction sites, land development
Required CertificationsHeavy equipment operation, safety certificationsHeavy equipment operation, safety certifications
Industry UsageMaritime, environmental managementConstruction, infrastructure projects

While both dredging and excavation involve earth-moving activities, dredging focuses on removing sediment from water bodies to maintain navigability or environmental health, whereas excavation involves digging land for construction or development projects. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right skill set and equipment for each task.

How do you become a dredging professional?

To become a dredging professional, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or an apprenticeship in dredging operations. Relevant skills include knowledge of heavy machinery, safety procedures, and environmental regulations, and certifications such as OSHA safety training are often required.

Is dredging a hard job?

Dredging is physically demanding work that often involves operating heavy machinery in challenging outdoor environments. It requires technical skills, safety awareness, and sometimes certifications, making it a job that can be considered physically and technically challenging.

What job categories do people searching Dredging jobs in Oklahoma look for?

The top searched job categories for Dredging jobs in Oklahoma are:

Infographic showing various Dredging job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,236 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Dredge Operator/Deckhand (Evenings)- Porter, OK

Kemp Quarries

Porter, OK • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job: Dredge Operator/Deckhand SAFETY-SENSITIVE POSITION 12pm-9pm
ABOUT KEMP QUARRIES:
Kemp Quarries is a leading producer of construction aggregates, primarily crushed stone, sand and gravel. These materials are most often produced from natural deposits of limestone and river sand. Our mining process typically begins with drilling and blasting the rock into smaller pieces. The material goes through various stages of crushing and screening to produce the sizes and specifications desired by our customers.
Our aggregates are used in different ways within the construction industry. As an associate member of the Oklahoma and Arkansas AGC chapters, we work closely with member contractors in providing materials to meet the most stringent needs and state certifications. • As a base material underneath highways, walkways, airport runways, parking lots and railroads. • To help aid in water filtration, purification and erosion control including Type I and Type II Rip Rap. • Used as a raw material in combination with other resources to construct many of the items that we rely on daily. • Houses and apartments; • Roads, bridges and parking lots; • Schools and hospitals; • Commercial buildings and retail space; • Sewer systems; and • Airports and runways.
Construction aggregates have formed the underpinnings for many of our cities, towns and transportation networks. Thousands of years ago, civilizations built entire cities with stone, sand and gravel, and many of these ancient structures still exist today. Aggregates are durable, attractive, and can be used in many different applications. On average, every American uses approximately eight tons of aggregates each year. Although our principal product is construction aggregates, Kemp Quarries offers a variety of other state-approved products and services.
ABOUT THE POSITION:
A dredge deckhand plays a key role in supporting dredging operations by performing various tasks on board the dredging vessel.
KEY RESPONSIBILITES / ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Assist in the operation and maintenance of dredging equipment.
- Perform routine inspections and maintenance of deck machinery and tools.
- Monitor and record data related to dredging operations, including depth and sediment types.
- Work closely with the dredge operator and other crew members to ensure safety and efficiency.
- Handle and secure ropes, lines, and other equipment as needed.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the deck and work areas.
- Follow safety protocols and procedures at all times.
- Participate in emergency drills and safety meetings.
- Assist with loading and unloading materials from the vessel.
- Regular, reliable attendance at the worksite or assigned work location.
QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIRED SKILLS / EXPERIENCE / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Previous experience in marine operations or construction preferred.
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills.
- Basic knowledge of safety regulations and practices.
- Physical stamina and ability to lift heavy objects.
BENEFITS:
- Competitive salary
- Health and wellness benefits
- Opportunity for advancement and training
If you're motivated to work in a dynamic environment on water and eager to learn, we encourage you to apply!
LOCATION:
Muskogee Sand at Porter, OK
We are an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on any basis including age, sex, color, race, creed, national origin, religious persuasion, marital status, political belief, or disability that does not prohibit performance of essential job functions.
Federal Law prohibits the employment of unauthorized aliens. All persons hired must submit satisfactory proof of employment authorization and identity (valid driver's license. Birth certificate, Green Card, etc.) with in three days of being hired. Failure to submit such proof within the required time shall result in immediate termination.