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Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator information

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$17

$23

$33

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

As of May 30, 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 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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What cities are hiring for Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator job openings:
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What states have the most Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lock And Dam Operator jobs are:
LOCK AND DAM OPERATOR

$27.96/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


United States Army rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 468 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 46 rated military and defense


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: You will serve as a Lock and Dam Operator alone or as part of a two-man team during lockages under the supervision of Lockmaster and/or Assistant Lockmaster or shift direction from a higher graded Lock and Dam Operator.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
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.
For the WY-05:
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a(n) LOCK AND DAM OPERATOR without more than normal supervision. I have the ability to perform simple maintenance or repair tasks utilizing mechanical or electrical equipment. I am able to perform grounds maintenance tasks. I am able to learn through on-the-job observation, training, and hands-on work experience. - Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
For the WY-07:
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a(n) LOCK AND DAM OPERATOR without more than normal supervision. I have the ability to perform common tasks associated with the operations of lock and dam equipment. I am able to perform routine preventive maintenance tasks. I am able to follow specific instructions to perform assignments related to lock operations safely. I am able to signal vessels during entry and direct the maneuver of boats within the lock chamber. I work under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed. - Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
For the WY-08:
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a(n) LOCK AND DAM OPERATOR without more than normal supervision. I have ability to perform tasks associated with the operations of lock and dam equipment. I am able to operate lock chamber gates emptying and filling valves at a small lock. I am able to perform routine preventive maintenance tasks. I am able to follow specific instructions to perform assignments connected to lock operations safely. I am able to operate communications equipment to provide guidance to operators of crafts entering the lock chamber. I work under supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who reviews my work for completion. - 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)
  • 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, occasionally lifting in excess of 50 pounds, stretching, working in cramped positions, handling or maneuvering bulky items or equipment, and general continuous moderate to arduous physical activity.
  • WORKING CONDITIONS: Preponderance of work is performed outside, subject to extremes of temperature and weather. There is exposure of injuries associated with working in restricted areas (occasionally in 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:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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Arlington, VA, US

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