Operator 2

Uniteddredging; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% company-paid medical insurance

401(k) with company match

Profit sharing opportunities

Paid overtime opportunities

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

United Dredging in Des Moines, Iowa, is seeking an Operator 2 to operate dredging systems and heavy machinery. This mid-level role requires 2–4 years of experience in operating heavy equipment and solid problem-solving skills. The position offers a competitive hourly wage and full-time shifts, typically featuring a 14 days on / 7 days off schedule.

Comprehensive benefits include 100% company-paid medical insurance, 401(k) matching, and profit-sharing opportunities. Successful candidates must also pass background checks and adhere to safety protocols while working outdoors in challenging conditions.

Qualifications

• 2–4 years of experience operating heavy equipment, preferably dredging, mining, or excavation.
• Ability to interpret site plans.
• MSHA Certification required – on the job certification provided.

Responsibilities

• Operate dredging equipment and excavators.
• Perform routine maintenance and inspections.
• Coordinate with the production crew and maintain equipment logs.

Skills

Operating heavy equipment

Interpreting site plans

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Education

MSHA Certification

Tools

Excavators

Dredging systems

Job description

Operator 2

Compensation: $20.00 – $28.00 per hour (depending on experience)

Position Summary

Operator 2 is a skilled equipment operator responsible for safely and efficiently operating dredging systems, excavators, and other heavy machinery in support of daily production and project goals. This mid-level role builds on foundational operational experience and requires strong mechanical aptitude, sound judgment, and the ability to work independently in dynamic field environments.

While dredging experience is highly valued, the industry involves specialized equipment, systems, and operating conditions that require continuous learning and adaptability. Success in this role depends on a strong commitment to safety, operational efficiency, teamwork, and ongoing skill development. Operator 2 is expected to demonstrate increased technical proficiency, problem‑solving ability, and operational leadership while continuing to grow toward more advanced responsibilities within the company.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate dredging equipment, excavators, dozers, and/or other mining equipment.
• Interpret site plans and execute production goals with minimal supervision.
• Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and minor repairs.
• Coordinate with the production crew to maintain consistent material flow.
• Maintain equipment logs, production reports, and shift documentation.
• Enforce and model company safety protocols.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

• 2–4 years of experience operating heavy equipment (dredging, mining, or excavation preferred).
• Ability to interpret site plans.
• MSHA Certification required – on the job certification provided.
• Willingness to travel extensively (typical rotation: 2 weeks on / 1 week off).

Preferred:

• Experience operating heavy equipment in dredging or mining.
• Heavy Equipment Certification.

Benefits

• 100% company‑paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees. Dependent and family coverage is available at an additional cost to the employee.
• $50,000 company‑paid basic life insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Profit sharing opportunities.
• Supplemental insurance options.
• Paid overtime opportunities.
• Career growth and advancement opportunities.

Additional benefits and coverage options are available for dependents and supplemental plans.

Schedule & Compensation

Full‑time, non‑exempt position.

This is a full‑time, non‑exempt position that regularly includes overtime opportunities based on project schedules and operational needs. Team members in this role typically work approximately 60 hours per week while assigned to active projects. The role generally follows a 14 days on / 7 days off rotational schedule; however, schedules may vary depending on project requirements, weather conditions, operational demands, and travel logistics.

Based on typical scheduling and overtime patterns, employees in this role may have the opportunity to earn $50,000– $70,000+ annually. Actual earnings will vary based on experience, hours worked, overtime availability, travel schedules, project assignments, and business needs.

Work Environment

This role is based in outdoor mining, construction, and industrial job sites with exposure to varying weather conditions, rough terrain, and active heavy equipment environments. The work is physically demanding, requiring lifting up to 75 lbs, extended standing and walking, climbing, bending, and occasional work at heights or in confined spaces. Employees are regularly exposed to dust, noise, vibration, and diesel exhaust, and must follow all safety policies, MSHA regulations, and PPE requirements.

Frequent travel to job sites nationwide is required, including overnight or extended assignments, with potential for long, rotating, or weekend shifts based on project needs.

Employment Requirements

Applicants must successfully pass background screening, drug and alcohol testing, and motor vehicle record (MVR) review.

United Dredging is an at‑will employer. Employment with the company is voluntarily entered into, and employees are free to resign at any time, with or without notice. Likewise, United Dredging may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable law. Nothing in this job posting or any other company communication should be interpreted as creating a contract of employment or guarantee of continued employment.