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Dredging Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Triangle Pond Management

Crew Foreman

Raleigh, NC · On-site

You will conduct erosion and pipe repairs, dredging, sediment removal, grading, mowing, and planting, while operating heavy equipment such as skid steers, excavators, mini-excavators, and slope ...

Triangle Pond Management

Crew Foreman

Raleigh, NC · On-site

You will conduct erosion and pipe repairs, dredging, sediment removal, grading, mowing, and planting, while operating heavy equipment such as skid steers, excavators, mini-excavators, and slope ...

All JobsDredging JobsDredging Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Dredging information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do dredging jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for dredging in Raleigh, NC is $25.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.01 and $27.79 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.
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Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Dredging job openings:

Dredging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dredging job openings in Raleigh, NC 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 $52,886 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Dredging Superintendent

Cooper Tacia General Contracting Company

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Oversee and manage daily dredging operations to ensure safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance

  • Supervise dredge and fill crews, support equipment maintenance, and coordinate repairs and preventive maintenance

  • Collaborate with project managers and engineers to plan work execution, create schedule updates, manage costs, and coordinate material and equipment deliveries

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Company car
  • Company parties
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Free uniforms
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Description:
In this critical leadership role, you will oversee day-to-day dredging operations, ensuring the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible execution of dredging projects in the southeast. You will manage dredge and fill crews while maintaining compliance with all safety and operational standards - playing a key role in delivering projects safely, on time, and on or under budget.
Responsibilities:
• Lead and manage daily dredging operations to meet safety and production targets
• Supervise and support the dredge crew, fostering a strong safety culture
• Supervise and coordinate fill crews on projects with upland disposal
• Maintain and troubleshoot dredge and support equipment, coordinating repairs and preventive maintenance
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations through regular inspections and best practices
• Track production metrics and maintain accurate daily logs and equipment reports
• Collaborate with project managers and engineers to plan the execution of the work, create schedule updates, manage costs, and plan material and equipment deliveries.
• Review and approve timecards, daily reports and quantities; track progress against the schedule.
• Identify potential conflicts or delays and work collaboratively to develop solutions.
• Lead subcontractor coordination meetings and ensure proper communication of goals, logistics and safety requirements
• Lead daily safety meetings and establish a rigorous safety culture with a lead-by-example approach.
• Participate in client meetings as needed.
Requirements:
• Proven experience managing dredging operations
• Strong leadership and team coordination skills
• In depth working knowledge of hydraulic dredging including by cutter suction (CSD) and portable pumps such as Eddie and Toyo
• In depth working knowledge of mechanical dredging by barge-mounted excavators and crane with clamshell
• Working knowledge of best practices for unloading, beach fill placement, dike management, and DMMA maintenance
• Willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges
• Ability to solve operational issues quickly and effectively
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Relevant certifications in marine safety, equipment operation, and dredging (preferred)
• Comfortable working in remote field locations and adjusting to evolving site needs
Employment Type: Full Time
Benefits:
• 100% Employer Paid Health, Vision & Dental Insurance for employee.
• PTO/ Paid Holidays
• 401K W/ 4% Match
• Continued Education as needed.
• Company Vehicle with Fuel Card.
We are an equal opportunity and drug-free workplace. Pre-employment drug screening required.
Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required. Personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Join the Cooper Tacia General Contracting Company Team
At Cooper Tacia General Contracting Company, we believe in building excellence from the ground up. Our story began in 1996 with John Cooper and Chris Tacia, two high school students who transformed a firewood business into a leading construction company. Today, we deliver top-quality projects across the southeast United States.
Why Work with Us?
We value innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. Here's why you should consider a career with Cooper Tacia:
  • Diverse Projects: Work on a wide range of projects, including manufacturing facilities, office buildings, government and education facilities, restaurant and retail spaces, apartment complexes, and water treatment plant upgrades.
  • Career Development: We are committed to your growth, offering opportunities for continuous learning and advancement.
  • Supportive Environment: Join a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about what they do.
  • Excellence in Every Project: Contribute to high-quality projects that make a real impact.
  • Competitive Benefits and Compensation: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and competitive salaries. We pay 100% of employee benefits for the employee only, offer a 401(k) with a 3% match, 10 days of PTO, and paid holidays.

Explore Career Opportunities
We are always on the lookout for talented individuals to join our team. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your career, we have opportunities that can help you grow and succeed.

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