Dredge Operators
Dredge operators operate dredges to remove sand, gravel, or other materials in order to excavate and maintain navigable channels in waterways.
The responsibilities of dredge operator jobs include moving levers to position dredges for excavation, engaging hydraulic pumps, raise and lowering suction booms, and to control the rotation of the cutterhead, starting and stopping engines from operating equipment and powering winches that draw in or let out cables to change positions of dredges, or pull in and let out cables manually. Also, Pumping water to clear machinery pipelines and lowering anchor poles to verify the depths of excavations, using winches, or scanning depth gauges to determine the depths of excavations are all primary tasks of dredge operators.
The knowledge of machines & tools and business & management principles are vital to apply for dredge operator jobs. The work styles of this job require being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job, willing to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction, to be pleasant with others on the job, and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude and accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
How to become a dredge operator? A high-school diploma, previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed to be successful as a dredge operator. The dredge operator's salary for these kinds of jobs ranges from five-six figures annually.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- B.Tech Marine Engineering
- M.Tech Dredging and Harbour Engineering
- Diploma Nautical Science
Tasks
- Move levers to position dredges for excavation, to engage hydraulic pumps, to raise and lower suction booms, and to control rotation of cutterheads.
- Start and stop engines to operate equipment.
- Start power winches that draw in or let out cables to change positions of dredges, or pull in and let out cables manually.
- Pump water to clear machinery pipelines.
- Lower anchor poles to verify depths of excavations, using winches, or scan depth gauges to determine depths of excavations.
- Direct or assist workers placing shore anchors and cables, laying additional pipes from dredges to shore, and pumping water from pontoons.
Progression Routes
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