ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Hopper Dredge Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Levy

Heavy Equipment Operator, AGG

Burton, MI · On-site

$23/hr

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHopper Dredge Jobs

Hopper Dredge information

See salary details

$15

$36

$41

How much do hopper dredge jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs related to operating a hopper dredge, such as senior dredge captain or project manager, can pay around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications. These roles often involve offshore or large-scale construction environments and may require long shifts or travel. Compensation varies based on location, project size, and industry demand.

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.

How much does a hopper dredger cost?

A hopper dredger typically costs between $20 million and $100 million, depending on its size, capacity, and features. These vessels require specialized skills to operate and are often part of large maritime or construction projects.

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.

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.

How do hopper dredges work?

Hopper dredges are vessels used in dredging operations to remove sediment from the seabed. They work by lowering a hopper with a dragarm and cutter head to loosen material, which is then sucked up through a pump and stored in the hopper for transport and disposal. Dredge operators need skills in navigation, equipment operation, and safety procedures to efficiently perform their tasks.
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:
What job categories do people searching Hopper Dredge jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hopper Dredge jobs are:
Hopper Dredge jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hopper Dredge job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,943 per year, or $36 per hour.
MARINE ELECTRICIAN (DUAL RATE)

MARINE ELECTRICIAN (DUAL RATE)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Portland, OR • On-site

$36.74/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 519 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: This position is aboard a diesel Hopper Dredge and responsibilities include performing preventative maintenance, repair or installation assignments and work projects.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
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(n) ~ without more than normal supervision. - Your resume must demonstrate you have the ability to perform common maintenance duties on electrical equipment aboard a sea-going vessel such as repairing electrical equipment, using hand tools, and determining when there is an issue. - Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): for Marine Electrician (Dual Rate), WK-2805-12 position. You must possess a current United States Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), with an oiler endorsement and obtain a Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) with valid Electrician's Endorsement, within 24 months of entrance on duty AND a current Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC). - You MUST UPLOAD your USCG Credentials or you may be rated ineligible.- Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
This position requires that the incumbent possess a valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential. (Note: You must attach a copy of the Credential with your application package or it will be ruled as incomplete and will not receive any further consideration)This position also requires the incumbent to possess a valid Transportation Worker's Identification Credential. (Note: You must attach a copy of the Credential with your application package or it will be ruled as incomplete and will not receive any further consideration)
  • PHYSICAL EFFORT: Makes repairs and installations from ladders, scaffolding, and platforms, and where the parts of the system worked on are in hard-to-reach places. Duties require long periods of time standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, climbing, and working in tiring and uncomfortable positions. Frequently lifts, carries, and sets up tools and equipment, and parts that weigh up to 45 lbs.
  • WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is performed primarily in closed areas with some work outside. Considerable time is spent in or adjacent to the engine room area with its attendant noise, heat, and fumes. Works in very close places and in awkward positions. Subject to the usual electrical hazards involving shock, strain, burns, cuts, falls from ladders, and fumes and heat while working in confined quarters.
Education:Employment Type: OTHER

What U.S. Department Of Defense employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply