Riverbed Material Handler in Alaska Career Overview

As a Riverbed Material Handler, you play a vital role in the management of materials and resources essential for construction and environmental projects along riverbanks or other waterways. Your primary responsibilities include:

  • Material Transport: You handle the movement of various materials, such as rocks, gravel, and sand, which are critical for stabilizing riverbanks, preventing erosion, and supporting aquatic ecosystems.

  • Site Preparation: You assist in preparing the worksite by ensuring that materials are correctly placed and organized. This contributes to the efficiency and safety of ongoing projects.

  • Collaboration with Teams: You work closely with engineers, environmental scientists, and construction crews, helping to implement project plans effectively. Your coordination with these professionals is crucial for achieving project goals.

  • Environmental Stewardship: Your role often involves tasks aimed at preserving the natural environment. You contribute to maintaining the ecological balance while meeting the needs of construction and commercial operations.

  • Safety Management: You follow safety protocols and procedures to protect yourself and your colleagues. Maintaining a safe working environment is a key aspect of your job responsibilities.

This career is integral to various industries, including construction, environmental restoration, and civil engineering. By facilitating the effective handling of materials, you help ensure that projects are completed successfully, benefiting both the industry and the surrounding ecosystems.

Required Education To Become a Riverbed Material Handler in Alaska

To become a Riverbed Material Handler, you will typically need a mix of educational qualifications and specific training programs. Consider the following relevant programs that can help you prepare for this career:

  • Agricultural Production Operations

    • This program provides knowledge about agricultural practices, land management, and crop production, which can be beneficial when handling materials in riverbed environments.

  • Fishing and Fisheries Sciences and Management

    • Enrolling in this program offers insights into sustainable fishing practices and aquatic resource management, directly applicable to riverbed material handling in fishing environments.

  • Forklift Operation and Operator

    • Completing a forklift operation course is essential, as proficiency in operating forklifts is often required for transporting materials effectively within riverbed settings.

  • Truck and Bus Driver/Commercial Vehicle Operator and Instructor

    • This training program equips you with the necessary skills to operate commercial vehicles safely, which is important when transporting materials to and from riverbed sites.

  • Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technology

    • Pursuing this program helps you understand the maintenance and repair of heavy machinery used in riverbed operations, ensuring that equipment is functioning properly for material handling tasks.

These programs provide a strong foundation for a career as a Riverbed Material Handler, equipping you with the essential knowledge and skills needed in this field.

Best Schools to become a Riverbed Material Handler in Alaska 2024

#1Davidson County

Lincoln College of Technology-Nashville

Nashville, TN

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:55%
Total Enrollment:1,053
#2Benton County

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR

In-State Tuition:$10,425
Out-of-State Tuition:$31,200
Admission Rate:83%
Graduation Rate:70%
Total Enrollment:34,292
#3Sevier County

Cossatot Community College of the University of Arkansas

De Queen, AR

In-State Tuition:$2,700
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,150
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:46%
Total Enrollment:1,278
#4Frontier County

Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture

Curtis, NE

In-State Tuition:$4,726
Out-of-State Tuition:$4,726
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:43%
Total Enrollment:303
#5Alachua County

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,477
Out-of-State Tuition:$25,694
Admission Rate:23%
Graduation Rate:90%
Total Enrollment:55,211
#6Wake County

Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh, NC

In-State Tuition:$2,432
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,576
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:31%
Total Enrollment:21,551
Riverbed Material Handler Job Description:
  • Operate dredge to remove sand, gravel, or other materials in order to excavate and maintain navigable channels in waterways.

Riverbed Material Handler Required Skills and Competencies in Alaska

  • Physical Stamina and Strength: You need to have the physical capability to lift heavy materials, frequently stand for long periods, and perform repetitive motions.

  • Attention to Detail: Carefully observing and following guidelines for handling materials is vital to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

  • Safety Awareness: Understanding safety protocols and practices is essential in minimizing risks associated with material handling, especially in potentially hazardous environments.

  • Teamwork and Communication: Engaging effectively with coworkers and supervisors is important for coordinating tasks and ensuring a smooth workflow.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You should be able to identify issues during material handling processes and find quick, effective solutions to maintain efficiency.

  • Basic Mechanical Skills: Familiarity with tools and machinery you will be using can improve your efficiency and reduce the likelihood of accidents.

  • Organization Skills: Managing materials and workspaces efficiently contributes to operational effectiveness and helps maintain a clean and safe environment.

  • Adaptability: You must be able to adjust to different work environments, tasks, and procedures, particularly as conditions change during riverbed operations.

  • Basic Math Skills: Understanding measurements and counting can help in accurately managing and reporting materials used or needed.

  • Time Management: Being able to prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively ensures that you meet deadlines and maintain productivity levels.

Job Duties for Riverbed Material Handlers

  • 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.

Technologies and Skills Used by Riverbed Material Handlers

Data base user interface and query software

  • Teledyne Odom Hydrographic ODOM eChart

Industrial control software

  • HYPACK DREDGEPACK
  • Programmable logic controller PLC software

Mobile location based services software

  • Global positioning system GPS software

Basic Skills

  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Riverbed Material Handler in Alaska

The job market for Riverbed Material Handlers in Alaska reflects the state’s diverse economic activities, particularly in construction, mining, and oil and gas sectors. Here are key aspects of the current landscape:

  • Demand: With ongoing infrastructure projects and natural resource extraction, there is a consistent demand for Riverbed Material Handlers. This role is vital for ensuring materials are transported and managed effectively, supporting critical operations in these industries.

  • Growth Potential: The prospects for growth in this field are linked to Alaska's economic initiatives, especially in construction and energy development. As more projects emerge in response to infrastructure demands and resource development, opportunities for Riverbed Material Handlers are expected to increase.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Anchorage: As the largest city in Alaska, Anchorage has a steady influx of construction projects and logistical operations, leading to a high demand for material handling roles.
    • Fairbanks: In the interior region, Fairbanks supports various construction and resource extraction efforts, creating more job openings for Riverbed Material Handlers.
    • North Slope: The oil and gas sector in this region continues to require labor-intensive operations, maintaining a significant demand for material handlers to facilitate the movement of materials across job sites.
    • Southeast Alaska: Places like Juneau and Ketchikan are seeing developments related to tourism and infrastructure, which also contribute to the need for skilled material handlers.

The blend of economic growth and various industries reliant on material management positions the job market favorably for those looking to enter the field of Riverbed Material Handling in Alaska.

Top Related Careers to Riverbed Material Handler 2024

Channel Excavation Specialist
Waterway Maintenance Technician
Hydraulic Excavator Operator
Navigable Waterways Dredge Technician

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Riverbed Material Handler in Alaska

  • Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development
    Explore job market information, training programs, and workforce resources in Alaska.
    Alaska Department of Labor

  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
    Access safety guidelines, regulations, and resources pertinent to handling materials in riverbed environments.
    OSHA Official Site

  • National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)
    Learn about small business support and resources, which may include river material handling operations.
    NFIB

  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
    Find comprehensive statistics about job outlook, wages, and occupational data for material handling and related fields.
    BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

  • American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP)
    Gain insights into safety training and best practices that are vital to riverbed material handling careers.
    ASSP

  • Alaska River Guides Association
    Connect with professionals in the river guiding industry, which often intersects with riverbed material handling.
    Alaska River Guides Association

  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
    Review regulations relating to environmental protection, especially regarding riverbed and watershed management.
    EPA

  • National Park Service: Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program
    Access information on river conservation efforts, as they can provide context for sustainable material handling practices.
    NPS RTCA

  • Training Resources for the Environmental Industry (TREI)
    Discover training and certification opportunities related to environmental and material handling operations.
    TREI

Utilizing these resources will enhance your understanding and preparedness for a career as a Riverbed Material Handler in Alaska.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Riverbed Material Handler in Alaska

  • What is a Riverbed Material Handler?
    A Riverbed Material Handler is responsible for the safe and efficient transportation of materials and debris along riverbeds, ensuring that sediment and vegetation do not hinder water flow. This role often involves physical labor, including lifting, digging, and operating machinery.

  • What qualifications do I need to become a Riverbed Material Handler?
    Typically, a high school diploma is required. Experience in construction, landscaping, or a similar field is beneficial. Familiarity with heavy equipment operation can enhance your qualifications.

  • What skills are important for a Riverbed Material Handler?
    Key skills include physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. Additionally, skills in operating machinery like excavators or bulldozers are advantageous.

  • What types of equipment will I use?
    You may work with a range of equipment, including shovels, pickaxes, and power tools. Heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and trucks may also be part of your daily tasks.

  • Is safety training required for this position?
    Yes, safety training is crucial. You will need to receive training on working with heavy machinery, proper lifting techniques, and safety protocols related to riverbed work to minimize injury risks.

  • What does a typical workday look like?
    A typical day may involve assessing project sites, transporting materials, operating machinery, and collaborating with a team to complete tasks efficiently. The nature of the job may vary depending on project scope and weather conditions.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
    Yes, with experience and additional training, you may advance to supervisory roles or specialize in equipment operation. You may also transition to related positions in construction or environmental management.

  • How does the work environment differ in Alaska?
    In Alaska, you may face unique challenges such as rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions. This can impact working hours and project timelines, which may require greater adaptability and planning.

  • What are the job prospects for Riverbed Material Handlers in Alaska?
    Job prospects can vary based on seasonal demand and specific projects. Construction and environmental restoration projects often increase the need for material handlers, providing potential job opportunities.

  • How much do Riverbed Material Handlers earn in Alaska?
    Earnings can vary widely based on experience, location, and the specific employer. On average, you can expect to earn between $20 to $30 per hour, with potential overtime pay for extended hours or challenging conditions.

  • What should I consider before applying for this career?
    Before applying, consider your physical fitness, willingness to work outdoors, and commitment to safety practices. Additionally, evaluate your interest in hands-on work and your ability to work as part of a team.