Dredge Operators
Operate dredge to remove sand, gravel, or other materials in order to excavate and maintain navigable channels in waterways.
SOC: 53-7031.00
Common Job Titles
- Dredge Operator
- Dredger
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate hydraulic and mechanical dredge equipment to excavate sand, gravel, and sediment from navigable waterways, maintaining precise control of dredge positioning and depth.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess waterway conditions and sediment characteristics using fathometer sonar equipment and density meters to determine dredging requirements.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate dredge positioning using GPS software and hydrographic navigation systems to maintain channel depth specifications and excavation boundaries.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate excavation quality and compliance with depth specifications by inspecting dredged channels and monitoring material removal rates.Proficient
- Hands-onManipulate anchor winches, power winches, and dragline cranes during dredging operations to position equipment and manage excavated materials.Developing
- Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and field repairs on mechanical dredge equipment using hand tools, welding equipment, and diagnostic instruments to ensure operational readiness.Developing
- KnowledgeApply judgment and decision-making skills to adjust dredging operations in response to changing environmental conditions, equipment performance, and safety considerations.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze equipment performance data and operational parameters to troubleshoot mechanical problems and optimize dredging efficiency.Developing
- MindsetEngage with crew members and supervisors through clear communication of operational status, safety concerns, and work coordination needs.Developing
- Hands-onExecute emergency response procedures including equipment shutdown, fire suppression, and water rescue operations following safety protocols.Developing
- MindsetSupport crew training and skill development by demonstrating proper dredge operation techniques and mentoring less experienced operators.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Dredge Operators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
1,030
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $42,060. 25th percentile: U.S. $46,120. 50th percentile: U.S. $48,430. 75th percentile: U.S. $60,300. 90th percentile: U.S. $75,050. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $42,060 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $75,050 |
| Workers on average earn | $55,820 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical4.1/5
- English Language3.4/5
- Public Safety and Security3.2/5
- Administration and Management3.1/5
- Production and Processing2.9/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
Technology Skills
- Global positioning system GPS software
- HYPACK DREDGEPACK
- Programmable logic controller PLC software
- Teledyne Odom Hydrographic ODOM eChart
- Trimble HYDROpro
- Web browser software
Tools & Equipment
- Anchor winches
- Chainsaws
- Clamshell buckets
- Crawler dozers
- Cutting torches
- Davit cranes
- Density meters
- Dragline cranes