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Dredging Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Diesel Mechanic 2

Ellsworth, WI ยท On-site

$24 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Diesel Mechanic 2 Position Summary United Dredging is seeking a skilled and dependable Diesel Mechanic to support the maintenance, repair, and operational readiness of heavy equipment and diesel ...

Operator

Ellsworth, WI

$50K - $70K/yr

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

While prior equipment experience is valued, dredging is a highly specialized industry with unique systems and processes. Success in this role requires a strong willingness to learn, absorb knowledge ...

Diesel Mechanic 2

Ellsworth, WI ยท On-site

$24 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Diesel Mechanic 2 Position Summary United Dredging is seeking a skilled and dependable Diesel Mechanic to support the maintenance, repair, and operational readiness of heavy equipment and diesel ...

Operator

Ellsworth, WI ยท On-site

$20 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

While prior equipment experience is valued, dredging is a highly specialized industry with unique systems and processes. Success in this role requires a strong willingness to learn, absorb knowledge ...

Diesel Mechanic 3

Ellsworth, WI

$27 - $42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Diesel Mechanic (Certified) Compensation: $27 - $42 per hour + overtime Position Summary United Dredging is seeking an experienced Diesel Mechanic to support maintenance and repair operations for ...

Diesel Mechanic 2

Ellsworth, WI

$24 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Diesel Mechanic2 Position Summary United Dredging isseekinga skilled and dependable Diesel Mechanic to support the maintenance, repair, and operational readiness of heavy equipment and diesel-powered ...

Diesel Mechanic 3

Ellsworth, WI ยท On-site

$27 - $42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Diesel Mechanic (Certified) Compensation: $27 - $42 per hour + overtime Position Summary United Dredging is seeking an experienced Diesel Mechanic to support maintenance and repair operations for ...

Diesel Mechanic 3

Ellsworth, WI ยท On-site

$27 - $42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Diesel Mechanic (Certified) Compensation: $27 - $42 per hour + overtime Position Summary United Dredging is seeking an experienced Diesel Mechanic to support maintenance and repair operations for ...

Fabricator

Ellsworth, WI

$24 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Fabricator 2 Compensation: $24 - $28 per hour + overtime Position Summary United Dredging is seeking an experienced Fabricator to support fabrication shop operations through advanced welding ...

Fabricator

Ellsworth, WI ยท On-site

$24 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Fabricator 2 Compensation: $24 - $28 per hour + overtime Position Summary United Dredging is seeking an experienced Fabricator to support fabrication shop operations through advanced welding ...

Fabricator

Ellsworth, WI ยท On-site

$24 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Fabricator 2 Compensation: $24 - $28 per hour + overtime Position Summary United Dredging is seeking an experienced Fabricator to support fabrication shop operations through advanced welding ...

WI ยท On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Dredging, Environmental and Marine Engineering NV is seeking a Lead Engineer - New Builds to coordinate engineering activities for new build vessels and asset development projects. This role ensures ...

Channel Maintenance Manager

WI ยท On-site +1

$89K - $116K/yr

It serves as the project manager and technical expert in areas involving navigation, dredging, and channel maintenance. Learn more about this agency Duties Help * Serves as the primary focal point ...

Channel Maintenance Manager

WI ยท On-site +1

$89K - $116K/yr

It serves as the project manager and technical expert in areas involving navigation, dredging, and channel maintenance. Learn more about this agency Duties Help * Work includes reconnaissance ...

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Showing results 1-20

Dredging information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do dredging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for dredging in Wisconsin is $26.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $28.89 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 cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Dredging jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Dredging job openings:

Infographic showing various Dredging job openings in Wisconsin 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 $54,917 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Diesel Mechanic 2

United Dredging

Ellsworth, WI โ€ข On-site

$24 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Diesel Mechanic 2 

Position Summary 

United Dredging is seeking a skilled and dependable Diesel Mechanic to support the maintenance, repair, and operational readiness of heavy equipment and diesel-powered systems used in dredging and excavation operations. This role is responsible for diagnosing, troubleshooting, repairing, and performing preventative maintenance on a wide range of equipment including excavators, loaders, trucks, trailers, dredges, pumps, and barge-mounted systems. 

The ideal candidate is experienced in diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, and field service work, and is capable of responding quickly to equipment issues in both shop and job-site environments. This position requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety, teamwork, and minimizing equipment downtime. Travel to project sites for field support and emergency repairs may be required. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Inspect, diagnose, service, and repair diesel engines and heavy equipment including excavators, loaders, skid steers, trucks, trailers, dredges, pumps, and support equipment. 
  • Troubleshoot hydraulic, mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic systems using diagnostic software, scan tools, testing equipment, and traditional troubleshooting methods. 
  • Perform preventative maintenance services including oil changes, filter replacements, brake repairs, cooling system checks, and scheduled equipment inspections. 
  • Respond to equipment breakdowns and perform emergency field repairs to minimize downtime and maintain operational efficiency. 
  • Communicate equipment issues, repair timelines, and maintenance recommendations to the Shop Manager and operations team. 
  • Maintain accurate records of inspections, repairs completed, parts used, and maintenance activities for tracking and job costing purposes. 
  • Assist with equipment mobilization readiness, inspections, and maintenance planning. 
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas including tools, shop spaces, and parts inventory. 
  • Collaborate with equipment operators and field personnel to identify and resolve performance or operational issues. 
  • Follow all company safety procedures, OSHA/MSHA requirements, and environmental compliance standards. 
  • Perform additional duties as assigned. 

Qualifications 

Required: 

High school diploma or GED  

  • Minimum of 3 years of experience as a diesel mechanic or heavy equipment technician 
  • Strong knowledge of diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, and heavy equipment diagnostics 
  • Experience repairing and maintaining heavy construction or dredging-related equipment 
  • Ability to read and interpret service manuals, schematics, and technical documentation 

Preferred: 

  • Diesel Mechanic Certification 
  • CDL Class A license or ability to move trucks and trailers 
  • Welding and fabrication experience 
  • Experience with Caterpillar, Cummins, John Deere, or similar heavy equipment platforms 
  • Knowledge of OSHA/MSHA safety standards and industrial service environments 

Benefits 

United Dredging offers an excellent benefits package for eligible full-time team members, including: 

  • 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees (Dependent and family coverage is available at an additional cost to the employee.)  
  • $50,000 company-paid basic life insurance  
  • 401(k) with company match  
  • Profit sharing opportunities  
  • Supplemental insurance options  
  • Paid overtime opportunities  
  • Career growth and advancement opportunities  

Additional benefits and coverage options are available for dependents and supplemental plans. 

Schedule & Compensation 

  • Full-time, non-exempt position 
  • Typical schedule averages approximately 50+ hours per week, including overtime opportunities 
  • Estimated annual earnings: $70,000 – $100,000+ depending on experience, certifications, overtime, travel assignments, and hours worked 

Work Environment 

This position works in both fabrication shop and industrial field environments with exposure to heavy equipment, outdoor conditions, noise, dust, fuels, oils, and physically demanding tasks. The work is physically demanding, requiring lifting up to 75 lbs, extended standing and walking, climbing, bending, and occasional work at heights or in confined spaces.  Frequent travel to active job sites, including emergency repair situations and extended assignments, may be required. 

Employment Requirements 

Applicants must successfully pass: 

Background screening  

Drug and alcohol testing  

Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) review 

United Dredging is an at-will employer. Employment with the company is voluntarily entered into, and employees are free to resign at any time, with or without notice. Likewise, United Dredging may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable law. Nothing in this job posting or any other company communication should be interpreted as creating a contract of employment or guarantee of continued employment.