1

Hopper Dredge Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operate mobile equipment such as excavator, bulldozer, loader and dredge * Complete various functions such as digging pits, loading trucks, feeding hopper and bins with materials * Load trucks with ...

Showing results 21-28

Hopper Dredge information

See salary details

$15

$36

$41

How much do hopper dredge jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 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.
More about Hopper Dredge jobs
What cities are hiring for Hopper Dredge jobs? Cities with the most Hopper Dredge job openings:
What states have the most Hopper Dredge jobs? States with the most job openings for Hopper Dredge jobs include:
Infographic showing various Hopper Dredge job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,943 per year, or $36 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator - American Aggregates Buno

Levy

Holly, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description


If you've got a passion for heavy equipment, loved tonka toys as a kid, enjoy time outdoors, & get gratification working with a team to build a better environment for the next generation, Levy invites you to play in our sandbox.
The Levy Group of Companies is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to work at our American Aggregates location in Milford, MI. The Heavy Equipment Operator performs all functions as it pertains to operating off-road, mobile equipment for the purpose of loading trucks, rail trucks, rail cars, feeding plant and stockpiling materials.
Pay: $26.46
Shift/Schedule: Day Shift
Benefits
  • Competitive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Prescription, 401(K) with 3% Employer Contribution, Long- and Short-term Disability
  • Tuition Reimbursement for qualified skilled trade programs
  • Student Loan Repayment Program
  • Employee Referral Program

Responsibilities
The Equipment Operator will:
  • Operate mobile equipment such as excavator, bulldozer, loader and dredge
  • Complete various functions such as digging pits, loading trucks, feeding hopper and bins with materials
  • Load trucks with the correct materials without contamination while complying with the legal weight limit for the trucks
  • Monitor stockpile inventory
  • Assist Maintenance personnel with repairs
  • Inspecting machines and equipment to identify possible malfunctions
  • Keep the work area clean and tidy
  • Perform preventative maintenance on equipment (e.g. greasing, oiling, fueling, inspecting breaks, tires, seals and bearings.)
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor

Skills
The ideal candidate will have:
  • Ability to Lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Knowledge and ability to operate heavy equipment
  • Knowledge of truck hauling capacities as well as loading and unloading procedures
  • Knowledge of equipment (e.g., conveyor lines, crusher, hot plant, and trucks)
  • Knowledge of materials and specification requirements
  • Ability to bend, kneel, stoop, climb or crawl under or on top of equipment
  • Ability to communicate effectively in written and verbal format individually and in group settings
  • Valid license

To Apply
Please submit your resume. Military Members are welcome and Veterans are encouraged to apply!
Who is Edw. C. Levy?
We are a unique, 100-year-old family-owned company that transforms our recycled products into construction materials, lightweight aggregates, asphalt, cement, concrete, agricultural products, and more. We provide steel mill services, flame cutting and treatment, road building, logistics, laboratory testing, and a variety of other solutions for our customers.
The Levy Group of Companies is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.