ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Dam Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTravel JobsMaritime JobsBridge Tender JobsDam Operator Jobs

Dam Operator information

See salary details

$9

$27

$67

How much do dam operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for dam operator in the United States is $27.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $35.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dam operator?

A Dam Operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the operation of dams, ensuring the safe and efficient management of water flow, power generation, and flood control. They inspect equipment, adjust water levels, and respond to emergencies such as leaks or structural issues. This role requires knowledge of hydraulic systems, mechanical maintenance, and safety protocols. Dam Operators often work for government agencies, power companies, or water management districts to maintain public safety and resource management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the dam operator position, and why are they important?

Succeeding as a Dam Operator requires mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of hydrology or water management, typically with a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water control equipment, and safety certifications such as confined space entry or CPR are often necessary. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help Dam Operators address emergencies and coordinate with maintenance or engineering staff. These competencies are critical for ensuring safe, reliable water flow regulation and protecting both infrastructure and surrounding communities.

What are the typical work hours and team structure for a dam operator?

Dam Operators often work in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as continuous monitoring of dam operations is essential for safety and reliability. They usually operate as part of a small, close-knit team that includes maintenance technicians, engineers, and safety personnel. Collaboration is frequent, both in routine monitoring tasks and during emergency response situations. The work environment is a combination of indoor control rooms and on-site inspections, requiring adaptability to both office and field conditions.

More about Dam Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Dam Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Dam Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Dam Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Dam Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Dam Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dam Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Dam Operator jobs?

For Dam Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Dam Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dam Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,438 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Lock and Dam Operator

Matagorda, TX • On-site

US Department of the Army
National Security • 10K+ employees
Learn more about US Department of the Armyexternal

$23.05/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 495 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: This is a Lock and Dam Operator position with USACE Galveston District, Operations Division, Colorado River Locks Project Office; located in Matagorda, Texas.
Position will be filled at the WY-05, WY-07, or WY-09 full performance level. Promotion is at management discretion.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Lock and Dam Operator WY-5426-05 Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision. This includes the ability to perform simple duties operating equipment such as a pick-up truck, dump truck. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
Lock and Dam Operator WY-5426-07 Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision. This includes the ability to perform common duties such as operating a radio for voice communication with tows or other craft. I can perform duties related to preparation and cleanup of work sites. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
Lock and Dam Operator WY-5426-09 Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision. This includes the ability to perform some tasks including installation, repair and maintenance of Lock & Dam machinery and equipment of mechanical or electrical type. I can perform duties related to flood preparation and clean-up. - Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
PHYSICAL EFFORT: Eye and hand coordination for operating various controls and handling lines while observing traffic and personnel, during crane lifting operations, lifting dam gates, etc. There is standing, stooping, bending,occasional lifting in excess of 50 pounds, stretching, working in cramped positions and spaces, handling or maneuvering bulky items or equipment, and general continuous moderate to arduous physical effort required.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Preponderance of work is performed outside subject to extremes of temperature and weather. There is exposure to injuries associated with working in restricted areas, occasionally cramped and/or uncomfortably hot or cold areas, from falling objects, from working with electrical power tools and wiring or other equipment, from working with normal manual tools and from falls while working on lock walls, dam service bridge, etc.While possibility of drowning exists as result of falls while working around water, hazard is practically eliminated through observance of safety procedures and use of safety equipment. During maintenance operations is occasionally exposed to unpleasant fumes, dust, etc.Education:No substitution of education for experience is permitted for this position. Applicants must meet the Screen Out Element for further consideration.Employment Type: OTHER

What United States Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

US Army logo

About US Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All US Army Jobs

Apply