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Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Freeport McMoRan

Tailings Dam Operator Trainee

Bagdad, AZ · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Mantling and dismantling spigots on tailing lines Proper lock-out procedures of tailings line to ... thickener operator on flows to tailings dam Responsible for learning the monitoring system on ...

Maine

Assistant State Dam Inspector

Augusta, ME

$54K - $76K/yr

July 10, 2026 This is entry-level professional engineering work in the Maine State Dam Safety and ... operators, and emergency management officials, and other state agencies as necessary.Work is ...

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Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator information

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How much do entry level lock and dam operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level lock and dam operator in the United States is $23.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level position on an oil rig?

An entry-level position on an oil rig typically involves basic tasks such as assisting with equipment setup, cleaning, and safety procedures. These roles often require minimal experience and may include positions like roustabout or floorhand, with on-the-job training provided. Physical fitness and safety awareness are important for these roles.

How much does a lock and dam operator make in the Army Corps of Engineers?

Lock and dam operators in the Army Corps of Engineers typically earn an annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and level of certification. They operate and maintain lock and dam systems, often working in shifts that include nights and weekends.

How to become a dam operator?

To become a dam operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. Relevant skills include mechanical aptitude, understanding of control systems, and the ability to work in a team environment, often with certifications in safety or operating machinery. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and the ability to work irregular hours or shifts.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level lock and dam operators typically do not earn $4,000 per week; such high wages are usually associated with specialized trades, management roles, or positions requiring extensive experience. Most jobs paying this amount without a degree are in skilled trades like commercial fishing, certain sales roles, or entrepreneurial ventures that rely on commissions or business ownership.

What is the difference between Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator vs Entry Level Bridge Tender?

AspectEntry Level Lock And Dam OperatorEntry Level Bridge Tender
CertificationsBasic waterway operation certificationsBasic waterway operation certifications
Work EnvironmentLocks, dams, and waterway infrastructureBridges and drawbridges in waterways
Employer & IndustryU.S. Army Corps of Engineers, transportation agenciesTransportation departments, port authorities

Both roles involve operating waterway infrastructure and require similar certifications. The main difference is the environment: Lock and Dam Operators work primarily with locks and dams, while Bridge Tenders focus on managing drawbridges. Both are essential for safe waterway navigation and are often employed by government agencies overseeing transportation infrastructure.

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Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator jobs near you
LOCK AND DAM OPERATOR

LOCK AND DAM OPERATOR

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Troy, NY

$30.95/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 532 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

About the Position: Works as a shift head lock and dam operator at a Corps of Engineers navigation facility within the Inland Marine Transportation System (IMTS) and operates electrically, electronically, or hydraulically controlled lock or lock and dam gates, control valves, and other associated equipment required for passage of a variety of private and commercial traffic through the lock structure and the maintenance of required pool levels.Qualifications:Who May Apply: Only applicants who meet one of the employment authority categories below are eligible to apply for this job. You will be asked to identify which category or categories you meet, and to provide documents which prove you meet the category or categories you selected. See Proof of Eligibility for an extensive list of document requirements for all employment authorities.
  • Current U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) employees with competitive status
  • Current Civilian Employees of the Command
  • Domestic Defense Industrial Base/Major Range and Test Facilities Base Civilian Personnel Workforce
  • Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan
  • Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act
  • Military Spouses, under Executive Order (E.O.) 13473
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD MR and NG Preference Eligible Tech Receiving Disability Retirement
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade Preference Eligible
  • Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA) of 1998

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.
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.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a(n) LOCK AND DAM OPERATOR without more than normal supervision: Apply locking procedures, policies, and laws regarding traffic right-of-way, sequence of operations and safe passage of hazardous commodities and damaged crafts; Provide locking instructions to tow boat captains and other craft operators; Operate electrically or hydraulically controlled lock and dam equipment; Determine the specific actions to take during breakdowns of equipment, delays in operation, and accidents; Recognize and avoid potential work hazards; Perform repairs necessary to keep the lock in operation. - Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
  • Ability To Do The Work Of The Position Without More Than Normal Supervision (Screen-out Element)
  • Ability to Interpret Instructions, Specification, etc. (includes blueprint reading)
  • Dexterity and Safety
  • Knowledge of Equipment Assembly, Installation, Repair, etc.
  • Technical Practices (theoretical, precise, artistic)
  • Use of Measuring Instruments
  • 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:Employment Type: OTHER

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