Dredging Operator

Workfast; Sunshine Coast Regional; On-site; AUD 62,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Superannuation

Job summary

Workfast is seeking a Dredging Operator to join our fast-paced quarry operations on the Sunshine Coast region. The role focuses on the safe and efficient operation of dredging equipment to extract sand, gravel, and other materials, working on water and inland areas with consistent shifts.

The position requires strong WHS adherence, site procedures, and a commitment to equipment care, with the ability to meet extraction targets and maintain steady material flow to the processing plant.

Qualifications

• Construction Industry White Card (CPCCOHS1001A) is required.
• Marine licence / RMDL advantageous for water-based work.
• Current first aid & CPR are required.
• Able to pass pre-employment medical and drug/alcohol screening.

Responsibilities

• Safe and efficient operation of cutter suction or floating dredges to extract quarry materials from the water body.
• Monitor and adjust extraction rates, pump speeds, and slurry density to maximize production while preventing pipeline blockages.
• Inspect, connect, maintain, and move floating and land-based delivery pipelines as the extraction area progresses.
• Complete daily pre-starts, post-operation checks, routine greasing, and basic mechanical troubleshooting on the dredge and booster pumps.
• Coordinate with the wash plant and processing team to ensure the quality and consistency of the material being pumped.
• Adhere strictly to site safety protocols, water management guidelines, and environmental controls. Complete JSEAs, Take 5s, and hazard identification.

Skills

Dredging operation

Pump control

Maintenance checks

Radio communication

Safety compliance

Education

Construction Industry White Card (CPCCOHS1001A)

Marine Licence / RMDL

First Aid & CPR (Current)

Pre-employment medical clearance

Tools

Cutter suction dredge

Floating dredge

Delivery pipelines

Two-way radio

Job description

We are seeking a hardworking, safety-focused and reliable Dredging Operator to join our fast-paced quarry operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of dredging equipment to extract sand, gravel, and other materials.

• $45 – $55 per hour + Superannuation.
• Consistent shifts within a long-term quarry operation.
• Available to commence with minimal notice for the right candidate.

You will be comfortable working on the water, managing extraction targets, and ensuring a steady flow of material to the processing plant. A strong commitment to WHS, site procedures, production targets, and maintaining a high standard of equipment care is essential.

Responsibilities & Operating Skills

• Safe and efficient operation of cutter suction or floating dredges to extract quarry materials from the water body.
• Monitor and adjust extraction rates, pump speeds, and slurry density to maximize production while preventing pipeline blockages.
• Inspect, connect, maintain, and move floating and land-based delivery pipelines as the extraction area progresses.
• Complete daily pre-starts, post-operation checks, routine greasing, and basic mechanical troubleshooting on the dredge and booster pumps.
• Coordinate with the wash plant and processing team to ensure the quality and consistency of the material being pumped.
• Adhere strictly to site safety protocols, water management guidelines, and environmental controls. Complete JSEAs, Take 5s, and hazard identification.

Required Qualifications & Tickets

• Construction Industry White Card (CPCCOHS1001A)
• Marine Licence / Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) – Highly advantageous for working on and accessing water-based plant
• Current C Class Driver Licence
• Relevant Mobile Plant Tickets (e.g., Loader, Excavator) – Advantageous for site support
• Apply First Aid & CPR (Current)
• Ability to pass a pre-employment medical and regular Drug & Alcohol screening

Personal Attributes

• Strong focus on production targets, KPIs, safety, and quality.
• Comfortable working autonomously on the water in varying weather conditions.
• Quick to learn new machinery, systems, and procedures.
• Reliable, punctual, and physically fit for manual handling tasks (e.g., pipeline adjustments).
• Excellent communication skills for coordinating with the land-based processing team via two-way radio.

About us

Workfast is a national labour hire company partnering with some of Australia’s largest organisations. We pride ourselves on supporting our employees, providing great opportunities, and ensuring all work is completed in line with Australian Fair Work standards.

We value diversity and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. If you require support or access adjustments during the application process, please let us know. All information provided is handled in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988.