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Lock And Dam Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Army

$23.94/hr

Serves as a Lock and Dam Operator at a Corps of Engineers Navigation Facility within the Inland Marine Transportation System. You will be responsible for site installation operations that operate ...

US Department of the Army

LOCK AND DAM OPERATOR

Welch, MN · On-site

$32.90/hr

The position is for a Permanent, Seasonal, Full-time shift Head Lock and Dam Operator at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers navigation facilities, St. Paul district. The applicant selected directs ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$23.94/hr

Serves as a Lock and Dam Operator at a Corps of Engineers Navigation Facility within the Inland Marine Transportation System. You will be responsible for site installation operations that operate ...

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How much do lock and dam jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for lock and dam 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 Lock And Dam vs Bridge Operator?

AspectLock And DamBridge Operator
Primary FunctionOperate and maintain lock and dam systems to control water levels and facilitate navigationOperate and monitor bridge mechanisms to allow or restrict vessel and vehicle passage
Work EnvironmentWaterways, lock stations, dam facilitiesBridges, control towers, roadway environments
Required CertificationsWaterway operation licenses, safety certificationsBridge operation licenses, safety certifications

Both Lock And Dam operators and Bridge Operators work in transportation infrastructure, requiring safety certifications and operating specialized equipment. While Lock And Dam roles focus on waterway navigation and water level management, Bridge Operators oversee vehicle and vessel movement at bridges. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths in transportation infrastructure maintenance and operation.

What is a lock and dam operator?

Lock and dam operators are professionals responsible for operating and maintaining locks and dams on navigable waterways. Their main duties include opening and closing lock gates to allow the passage of boats and ships, regulating water levels, and performing routine maintenance on mechanical equipment. They play a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient river traffic, flood control, and water management. Lock and dam operators often work for government agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and may be required to work in various weather conditions and on a rotating shift schedule.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lock and dam operator?

To thrive as a Lock and Dam Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, basic electrical knowledge, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, control panels, and safety protocols is typically required, and specialized training or certification in waterway operations is often beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure the safe and efficient operation of lock and dam facilities, protecting both infrastructure and users of the waterway.

What are some typical challenges faced by lock and dam operators, and how can job seekers prepare for them?

Lock and Dam Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, responding to mechanical malfunctions, and ensuring the safety of both the structure and waterway users. Job seekers can prepare by developing strong problem-solving skills, gaining familiarity with machinery and control systems, and staying up to date with safety regulations. Additionally, effective communication and teamwork are essential, as operators frequently coordinate with other crew members and vessel operators to maintain smooth and safe waterway navigation.
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Lock And Dam jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lock And Dam job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,774 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - John Day Lock and Dam - Natural Resource Maintenance Individual Pl...

Northwest Youth Corps

Rufus, OR

$7.6K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Northwest Youth Corps

Individual Placement

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

John Day Lock & Dam - Rufus, OR

Position Title: Natural Resource Maintenance Individual Placement

Position Summary:

John Day Dam is recruiting one 480-hour individual placements for up to 12 weeks beginning August of 2026 and end October/November 2026. The individual placement will support Natural Resource Management on U.S. Army Corps lands at the John Day Lock & Dam. Major duties are related to assisting personnel in recreation, natural resource management, and related activities at the John Day Lock & Dam.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Major duties are related to assisting personnel in recreation, natural resource management, and related activities at the John Day Lock & Dam. The Individual Placement will assist in the following:

  • Natural resource maintenance and conservation projects, including invasive species removal (40%)
  • Park and Recreation Site Management (40%)
  • Boat Operator Training (20%)

*Please note percentages describe the estimated time allocated to each task over the course of the term.

All work under this term shall be performed in accordance with EM 385-1-1, "U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Safety and Health Requirements Manual," and FED-OSHA regulations. EM 385-1-1 can be downloaded from: https://www.usace.army.mil/Missions/Safety-and-Occupational-Health/Safety-and-Health-Requirements-Manual/

Required Qualifications:

  • Current Driver's License
  • Ages 18-30 (up to 35 for veterans)
  • U.S. Citizen or lawful, permanent resident
  • Must pass a background/driver check
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED
  • Ability to drive government vehicle upwards of 200 miles roundtrip in one day to get to work sites
  • Good written and verbal communication skills and a positive attitude
  • Ability to work outdoors in remote settings, in inclement weather, and on uneven ground
  • Willingness to work independently in an outdoor setting at a campground gatehouse
  • Enjoys engaging in customer service
  • Able to walk campground and interact with campground visitors, campground hosts, and volunteers
  • Able to address campground visitor's needs, resolving their problems and complaints
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs
  • Personal transportation

Desired Qualifications:

  • Strong collaborating and communication skills.
  • Interested in providing educational programs on water safety, environment, local wildlife, the historical and cultural relevance of landmarks
  • Willingness to learn about John Day Lock and Dam history and importance
  • Enthusiastic about work in conservation, recreation, and environmental and cultural stewardship
  • Compassion towards visitors and situations with adversity
  • Knowledge of Northwest natural resources, flora, and fauna
  • Must be comfortable riding in and working from a boat and kayak
  • Knowledge of Excel spreadsheets and Microsoft Word

Duty Location:

Individual placement will report daily to the USACE Ranger office at John Day Lock & Dam (Interstate 84 Exit 109, Rufus, Oregon 97050, in the Ranger Office). Incumbent must arrange their own transportation to and from the office. No public transportation opportunities.

Terms of Employment:

Individual placement will complete the 12-week program (480 Hours) starting August through October/November, 2026. Dates of service are flexible to accommodate applicant availability. Individual placement will average 40 hours of labor per week, minus holidays. Individual placements are responsible for providing their own personal transportation and food.

Program Benefits:

Individual placements will earn a total living allowance of $7,680 for the 12-week term. The living allowance will be divided into monthly payments over the course of the 12-week term. The living allowance is taxable income. Additionally, there is a reimbursement fund of $54.10 available for relevant training during the term.

Application Instructions

_____________________________________________________________________

Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Interviews: Will occur as qualified applications are received.

Type of position: Individual Placement

Service Dates: August – October/November 2026 (start date is negotiable to accommodate applicant schedules)

Length of Term: 12 Weeks (minimum of 480 hours)

How to apply:

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references and completely fill out the application form found at https://nwyouthcorps.workbrightats.com/jobsearch/?job_board_classification=Internships

Please select "John Day Lock and Dam – Natural Resource Steward Individual Placement" when applying.

Additional Information

If you have questions about the position, please reach out to Northwest Youth Corps Internship Department at interns@nwyouthcorps.org or 208-625-8402, or Supervisory Natural Resource Specialist Sylvia Gentilcore at Sylvia.T.Gentilcore@usace.army.mil or 541-739-1134.

All job offers are contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check (criminal history and driving history).

Apply