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Hopper Dredge Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Cook (Dual Rate)

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$30.14 - $35.15/hr

You will prepare and serve meals aboard a Hopper Dredge to all Crew Members. * You will prepare various meats such as poultry, fish, chops, steaks, roasts. * You will prepare various vegetables and ...

TMMG

... Hopper Dredge (TSHD) Adele--a next-generation 347-foot, Royal IHC Beagle Mk2-class vessel being built for The Dutra Group. This position will serve as a technical and coordination hub between ESG ...

US Department of the Army

Cook (Dual Rate)

Portland, OR · On-site

$30.14/hr

IAW NPPR 690-1-530 this position is dual-rated to the position of Cook Steward, Hopper Dredge, WJ-7404-04 (RH A50). If qualified and possesses appropriate U.S. Coast Guard License/Certification ...

THE MCHENRY MANAGEMENT GROUP, LLC

... Hopper Dredge (TSHD) Adele-a next-generation 347-foot, Royal IHC Beagle Mk2-class vessel being built for The Dutra Group. This position will serve as a technical and coordination hub between ESG ...

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Hopper Dredge information

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$15

$36

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How much do hopper dredge jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for hopper dredge in the United States is $36.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.62 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Hopper dredge operators can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, often working in offshore or industrial environments. These roles typically require specialized training, certifications, and physical stamina, but do not always require a college degree. High-paying skilled trades like commercial diving or certain construction management roles may also reach this income level without a degree.

What is a hopper dredge?

A hopper dredge is a type of vessel used in marine construction and maintenance to remove sediment from the bottom of waterways, such as rivers, harbors, and shipping channels. It works by sucking up sand, mud, and silt through dragheads and storing the material in onboard hoppers (large holding tanks). Once full, the hopper dredge transports the dredged material to a designated disposal site and releases it through doors in the hull or by pumping. This process helps maintain navigable depths for ships and prevents the buildup of sediment that can hinder water traffic.

What are some common challenges faced by hopper dredge operators and how are they addressed on the job?

Hopper dredge operators often face challenges such as varying weather conditions, navigation in busy waterways, and maintaining equipment performance during long shifts. To address these, teams emphasize clear communication, regular safety drills, and routine equipment inspections. Collaboration with engineers, deckhands, and marine pilots is essential for safe operation and efficient dredging. Ongoing training and adherence to maritime safety regulations help operators stay prepared and adapt to changing conditions on the water.

What is the difference between Hopper Dredge vs Cutter Suction Dredge?

AspectHopper DredgeCutter Suction Dredge
Primary UseTransporting and depositing dredged material in designated areasCutting and removing hard or compacted materials from the seabed
Work EnvironmentOpen water, often in deep or shallow coastal areasSimilar, but often in more confined or complex underwater terrains
CertificationsMarine engineering, dredging operation certificationsSimilar certifications, with additional focus on cutter operation

Hopper Dredges are primarily used for transporting dredged material to designated disposal sites, while Cutter Suction Dredges are designed to cut and remove tough materials from the seabed. Both roles require marine operation certifications and work in open water environments, but their specific functions and equipment differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hopper Dredge Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hopper Dredge Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of dredging operations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent along with relevant maritime certifications. Familiarity with dredging equipment, GPS navigation systems, and compliance with maritime safety regulations is essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help operators manage challenging environments and ensure smooth operations. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and the successful completion of dredging projects.

What does a hopper dredge do?

A hopper dredge is a type of vessel used in dredging operations to remove sediment, sand, and debris from the bottom of water bodies such as harbors, channels, and ports. It collects the material in its large hopper holds and then transports and deposits it at designated disposal sites. Dredge operators need knowledge of navigation, sediment management, and often require certifications related to safety and environmental regulations.

How much money do dredgers make?

Hopper dredgers, as maritime equipment operators or crew members, typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific job responsibilities. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in large-scale dredging projects tend to earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

What is the highest paying job on a cargo ship?

On a cargo ship, the highest paying job is typically the captain or master, who is responsible for overall vessel operation and safety. They often earn the most due to their leadership role, extensive experience, and required certifications such as STCW. Salaries can vary based on the ship's size, company, and voyage duration.
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Hopper Dredge jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hopper Dredge job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,943 per year, or $36 per hour.
Marine Equipment Repairer/Operator (Dual Rate)

Marine Equipment Repairer/Operator (Dual Rate)

Careers Fields -- Headquarters U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Portland, OR

$30.14/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

Job description

This is a Standing Register [Open Continuous] Job Announcement using a Direct Hire Authority 5 U.S.C. 9905, dated 12/22/2023 that is expected to be used to fill full time positions when requested. The initial cut-off for referral consideration is 10/30/2025; applications received by this date will have the first opportunity for review. Applications received after this date will be considered as additional vacancies become available. Referrals will be pulled as needed by management.Qualifications:About the Position: This position is aboard a hopper dredge. The Portland District's hopper dredges Yaquina and Essayons, work to ensure a safe "highway" for ships and other vessels. The hopper dredge is a specialized sea-going vessel designed to dredge and transport dredged material from ocean bars, fast flowing rivers and isolated harbors to open-water disposal areas.
USACE offers a team-inspiring and collaborative work environment; providing challenging and rewarding careers across a variety of disciplines. We rely on leaders with vision, creativity, and programmatic and technical expertise to lead us into the future. Align your talents with your passion and find out why the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers is a great place to work!
Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision. Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Marine Equipment Repairer/Operator (Dual Rate) without more than normal supervision. You must possess a current United States Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) with a Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) with Oiler's Rating or higher -AND- a current Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC). Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
  • Working Conditions: Exposed to extremes of weather conditions, heat, and noise. There is danger of slippery decks and drowning. Must wear appropriate safety gear and protective clothing as required, and comply with sound safety practices. May be exposed to hot pipes, escaping steam and the effects of acids, solvents, and paint.
  • Physical Effort: Work requires moderate physical effort. Lifts and carries equipment and supplies normally up to 45 pounds. and occasionally over 45 pounds. Work requires prolonged standing, walking and climbing, all of which can cause exertion of the lower back. The employee must maintain good lower back physical condition. Incumbent must have color and depth perception and be ale to see by low visibility conditions in order to perform duties.
IAW NPPR 690-1-530 this position is dual-rated to the position of Junior Engineer, WK-4742-10. If qualified and possesses appropriate U.S. Coast Guard License/Certification, incumbent may be assigned to perform these duties on an intermittent, dual-rated capacity.
Education:Employment Type: OTHER
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About Army Corps of Engineers

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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