Dredge Operator

Responsibilities

Responsible for operating power-driven dredge to excavate and maintain navigable channels in waterways and to mine sand at bottom of lakes, rivers, and streams.

• Operate levers to position dredge for excavation by engaging hydraulic pumps to raise and lower suction booms and to control rotation of cutter heads.

• Start and stop engines to operate equipment.

• Start power winches that draw in or let out cables to change positions of dredge, or pull in and let out cables manually.

• Pump water to clear machinery pipelines.

• Verify depths of excavations using winches or a depth gauge to determine depths of excavation.

• Monitor gauges, dials, or other indicators to ensure machinery is working properly.

• Inspect equipment to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

• Provide information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in-person in a professional and timely manner.

• Comply with MSHA regulations and all safety precautions.

• Maintain clean and orderly work areas.

• Other responsibilities as assigned.

• High school diploma or GED equivalent

• Previous dredge experience preferred.

• Prior knowledge of various pumps

• Experience with heavy equipment, specifically knowledge of machines and tools, including their design, use, repair, and maintenance.

• Able to operate a boat.

• Must be able to swim at least 50 yards.

• Ability to inspect equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

• The ability to adjust the controls of a machine quickly and repeatedly.

• The ability to concentrate on a task over a period without being distracted.

• The ability to quickly respond.

• Must be able to perform duties in a safe manner.

• Must be able to work in adverse working conditions such as heat, wet, cold, noise, etc.

• Must be able to work 12-hour shifts, nights, weekends, overtime, and holidays as needed.

• Strong communication skills

• Safety-sensitivity position

• Ability to sit for long periods of time.

• Ability to tolerate working outdoors in all environmental temperatures and weather.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

• Repetitive movements of both hands and both feet

• Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment

This job description should not be interpreted as an exhaustive list of responsibilities or as an employment agreement between the employer and employee. The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed and are subject to change as the needs of the employer and job requirements change. Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified applicants with disabilities as required by applicable law.