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Dam Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

R&D Maintenance Services, Inc

Welder/Fabricator

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform welding repair and maintenance to stationary lock and dam equipment, machinery, and large hydraulic steel structures (lock gates). * Perform metal repair in a pin bore using a portable bore ...

Domino's

Delivery Driver(05818) - 400 Lay Dam Rd.

Clanton, AL · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Your job responsibilities would include (but are not limited to): • Greeting customers and taking orders with a smile (yes, you even have to smile when you answer the phone)! • Operating the cash ...

All JobsDam Operator JobsDam Operator Jobs in Alabama

Dam Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$7

$23

$56

How much do dam operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for dam operator in Alabama is $23.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $29.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

How to become a dam operator?

To become a dam operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or experience in water management, hydraulics, or related fields. Many positions require certification in water or dam safety, and on-the-job training is common to learn specific equipment and safety protocols.

What are popular job titles related to Dam Operator jobs in Alabama?

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

What job categories do people searching Dam Operator jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Dam Operator jobs in Alabama are:

Dam Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dam Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,575 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Heavy Equipment/Crane Operator

R&D Maintenance Services, Inc

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Description:
Heavy Equipment/Mobile Crane Operator
Black Warrior – Tombigbee Waterway Project (Tuscaloosa AL)

R&D Maintenance Services, Inc. provides operations and maintenance services on U.S Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) projects throughout the southeast - since 1980. We are the Operations and Maintenance Contractor for the Black Warrior – Tombigbee Waterway Project providing machinery and facility maintenance and repair on several hundred miles of waterway and 9 locks/dams/spillways on the system. R&D is an EEO Employer. 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Operates heavy equipment (dozer, loader, excavator, grader, and hydraulic rough terrain crane, etc.) to perform or assist in maintenance, repair, construction, or installation work. Operates and maintains equipment of heavy weight and complexity. Inspects equipment prior to use and ensures necessary equipment repairs are made; Performs preventive and scheduled maintenance tasks necessary to keep machinery, equipment, and tools in proper working condition. 

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS:
  • Operates a variety of heavy equipment including dozer, loader, excavator, and grader.
  • Operate mobile, hydraulic rough terrain crane (30-50 ton RT - onshore or barge-mounted) when required by the project.
  • Transports equipment and supplies to and from work sites. 
  • Responds to after hour emergencies.
  • Performs routine maintenance on equipment such as checking air, oil, water and other fluids. Uses hand and power tools.
  • Grades roads; Repairs drainage/spoil/disposal areas.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Knowledge of the principles, methods, standard practices, rigging, and techniques for heavy equipment operation.
  • NCCCO Certified (or willing and capable of attaining certification for 30/50-Ton RT crane) and ability to properly calculate lifting capacities, deductions, and center of gravities.
  • Knowledge of equipment maintenance and safe operations.
  • Ability to plan and schedule multiple tasks and effectively prioritize and plan work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; analyze and solve problems; make decisions; exercise good judgment; perform well under pressure; adapt well to change.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
  • Must have knowledge of manufacturer load charts, how to interpret/apply them, and mathematical ability to perform required measurements and calculations.
  • Ability to demonstrate overall safe work behavior; including the utilization of proper safety equipment and adhering to safety guidelines.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Must have five (5) years of experience as a heavy equipment operator.
  • NCCCO Certified (or willingness/ability to obtain certification) for 30/50-Ton hydraulic RT Crane.
  • Must be able to plan and execute all crane lift operations including material/equipment/personnel lifts.
  • Must possess a valid Alabama Class A driver’s license.
  • Must have knowledge of applicable crane operation load requirements and mathematical ability to perform required calculations.
  • Ability to demonstrate overall safe work behavior; including the utilization of proper safety equipment and adhering to safety guidelines.
  • Maintains various records related to work orders and assigned activities.
  • Required to successfully complete background check, MVR, and drug/alcohol screenings.
  • Overtime occasionally during regular work schedule; Significant overtime during lock closures or dam/spillway repairs (Days to weeks) - typically once annually but may be less or more.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Frequent walking and standing; frequent seated and standing equipment operation.
  • Often lifts/carries up to 20 pounds with occasional lifting up to 75 pounds; occasional pulling up to 100 pounds.
  • Occasional climbing ladders and working at heights.
  • Frequent use of power and hand tools.
  • Frequent use of arms and legs to operate machine controls.
  • Frequent balancing, kneeling, reaching (full range) bending, handling, feeling, climbing, smelling and twisting; occasional crawling and reaching; working in cramped and confined spaces; frequent climbing up/down to operator station.
BENEFITS:
  • Company Paid 401K Contribution.
  • Paid Employee Health insurance.
  • Employee Life insurance.
  • Paid Vacation & Sick Leave.
  • 11 Paid Holidays.
  • Safety Award Program.