Marine Dredge & Barge Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced, dependable Marine Dredge and Barge Operator to join our team. This is a hands-on position operating a cutterhead-driven vacuum dredge throughout Broward and Palm Beach Counties, with our primary operations based in Deerfield Beach.

The operator will pilot and position the barge while safely operating the crane, cutterhead, hydraulic pump, and related dredging equipment. The ideal candidate has at least two years of marine dredging experience, strong mechanical abilities, and the physical capacity to perform demanding work in an outdoor marine environment.

Responsibilities

• Pilot, maneuver, position, and secure the dredging barge
• Operate the cutterhead-driven vacuum dredge
• Safely operate the barge-mounted crane, cutterhead, hydraulic pump, and associated controls
• Handle, position, connect, and move dredging hoses and pipelines
• Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and minor repairs
• Maintain the Caterpillar engine and hydraulic systems that power the pump, crane, and cutterhead
• Monitor equipment performance and identify mechanical or hydraulic issues before they cause downtime
• Assist with mobilization, demobilization, setup, and breakdown of dredging equipment
• Follow all company, marine, environmental, and jobsite safety requirements
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe barge and work area
• Communicate effectively with crew members and supervisors

Minimum Qualifications

• At least two years of experience operating a marine dredge
• Experience operating or working aboard barges and other marine equipment
• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment, including cranes and hydraulic machinery
• Mechanical aptitude and basic troubleshooting ability
• Physically capable of repeatedly lifting, carrying, and positioning hoses and equipment weighing approximately 45 pounds
• Comfortable working outdoors in heat, rain, humidity, and marine conditions
• Able to stand, bend, climb, balance, and perform physical work for extended periods
• Dependable transportation and consistent attendance
• Strong awareness of jobsite and marine safety
• Ability to work effectively as part of a crew

Preferred Qualifications

Preference will be given to candidates with one or more of the following:

• Additional marine dredging experience
• Diesel engine, heavy-equipment, or industrial mechanical experience
• Experience maintaining Caterpillar engines
• Experience troubleshooting and maintaining hydraulic systems
• Boat-captain credentials or significant boat-operating experience
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Crane-operating experience or relevant certification
• Residence in or near Deerfield Beach, Broward County, or Palm Beach County

What We’re Looking For

The right candidate is safety-conscious, mechanically inclined, physically capable, and comfortable taking responsibility for complex marine equipment. Because our dredging system depends on the reliable operation of its engine, hydraulics, pump, crane, and cutterhead, consistent maintenance and attention to detail are essential.

Local applicants are strongly preferred due to the location and nature of our operations.