Dredge Operator

Position Summary:

The Dredge Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of jet suction, cutterhead, or similar dredging equipment to support daily mining operations and production objectives. This position monitors dredge performance, conducts routine inspections, performs preventive maintenance, and assists with equipment repairs to maintain operational reliability, product quality, and productivity. The Dredge Operator is expected to recognize and communicate potential safety hazards, equipment deficiencies, and operational concerns while supporting a safe, organized, and productive work environment.

This position requires the ability to work independently or as part of a team, perform additional operational and maintenance duties as assigned, and occasionally assist at other mine locations. Extended hours, rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays may be required based on operational needs.

Responsibilities:

• Actively promote and demonstrate E.R. Jahna's Core Standards of Safety, People, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SPQDC).
• Safely operate jet suction, cutterhead, or similar dredging equipment and associated systems to achieve production goals while maintaining product quality and operational efficiency.
• Monitor dredge performance, material flow, pumps, pipelines, cables, and related equipment to identify operational concerns and maintain consistent production.
• Conduct required workplace examinations, pre-shift inspections, and equipment checks; promptly identify, report, and address deficiencies or unsafe conditions.
• Perform preventive maintenance, basic troubleshooting, lubrication, cleaning, and minor equipment repairs within established training and qualifications.
• Follow all company safety procedures, MSHA requirements, and environmental regulations, including Take 5/pre-task planning, LOTOTO, proper PPE use, and stop-work authority.
• Safely operate workboats and assist with dredge positioning, cable adjustments, pipeline maintenance, and other dredge-related activities as trained and authorized.
• Maintain accurate operating logs, inspection records, and maintenance documentation while communicating equipment concerns, production issues, and downtime promptly.
• Actively participate in Daily Direction Setting (DDS), safety meetings, required training, and continuous improvement initiatives while demonstrating accountability, teamwork, and professionalism.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment; assist with equipment repairs, general mine operations, and other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications & Education Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Two (2) years of experience operating jet suction, cutterhead, or similar dredging equipment preferred.
• Previous experience in mining, heavy equipment operation, industrial maintenance, or related environments beneficial.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and hands-on preventive maintenance experience preferred.
• Welding, cutting, fabrication, or related mechanical repair experience is a plus.
• Ability to complete required company training, task-specific qualifications, and applicable MSHA training.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant work experience may be considered.

Knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Ability to safely operate dredging equipment, associated controls, and workboats in accordance with established procedures and training.
• Basic understanding of mechanical systems, pumps, pipelines, hydraulic components, and preventive maintenance practices.
• Ability to recognize equipment abnormalities, potential mechanical failures, and unsafe operating conditions.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions, operating procedures, and safety requirements.
• Effective communication skills, including the ability to communicate clearly using two-way radios.
• Ability to complete routine inspections, operating logs, and other required documentation accurately.
• Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and the ability to respond appropriately to changing operational conditions.
• Ability to work independently, maintain productivity, and collaborate effectively with supervisors and team members.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation. The employee is regularly required to sit for extended periods while operating dredging equipment and periodically stand, walk, climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach while performing inspections, maintenance, and other operational tasks. The position requires frequent use of hands and fingers to operate controls, tools, and equipment, along with the ability to safely climb ladders and stairways reaching approximately 30 feet in height. The employee must frequently lift and/or move objects weighing up to 50 pounds and may occasionally be required to handle heavier materials weighing up to 100 pounds, with appropriate assistance or mechanical lifting equipment. Adequate vision, hearing, depth perception, and coordination are necessary to safely operate equipment, recognize hazards, and respond to changing conditions.

Work Environment:

Work is performed primarily inside the operating cab of a dredge, with additional duties conducted outdoors, on dredge platforms, aboard workboats, and throughout active mining operations. The employee is regularly exposed to water, wet or slippery surfaces, moving mechanical equipment, vibration, noise, dust, and varying weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, and occasional cold temperatures. Work may involve elevated platforms, uneven surfaces, and proximity to operating machinery and open water. Employees must comply with all applicable safety requirements, including the use of designated personal protective equipment, approved personal flotation devices when required, and other protective measures appropriate to assigned tasks. The position may require extended hours, shift work, nights, weekends, and occasional travel to other mine locations.

Benefits, Pay, and Schedule:

Pay Rate: Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications. Shift differential pay for applicable night and weekend shifts.

Schedule: Extended hours, rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays may be required based on operational needs.

Lunch/breaks: As time permits during shift, does not have a designated break time during shift.

Benefits: Health Insurance, Paid Vacation, 401(k) Matching, Dental and Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Safety Bonuses, and Profit Sharing.

Candidate selection will be based on ability to perform the job, previous work experience and history, educational background, and other bona fide occupational qualifications. Equal opportunity is provided to all candidates based on individual qualifications without regard to race; color; religion; sex; age; national origin; citizenship; sexual orientation; gender identity; disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Expected hours: 50.0 – 60.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• working in an outdoor, labor-intensive environment: 1 year (Preferred)
• Heavy equipment operation: 1 year (Preferred)

Language:

• English (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)
• Night Shift (Required)

Work Location: In person