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Lock And Dam Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

IN · On-site

$21.77/hr

This job announcement will fill multiple vacancies for a Lock and Dam Operator at the full performance level (FPL) of WY-08. Positions may be filled at the WY-05, WY-07 or WY-08.Qualifications: Who ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

IL

$21.77/hr

This job announcement will fill multiple vacancies for a Lock and Dam Operator at the full performance level (FPL) of WY-08. Positions may be filled at the WY-05, WY-07 or WY-08.Qualifications: Who ...

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How much do lock and dam jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 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 are lock and dam operators?

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, and why are they important?

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,774 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Lock and Dam Operator

Lock and Dam Operator

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Winfield, MO • On-site

$24.37/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 536 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 50 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel within the DoD to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: Incumbent participates as a trainee in a formalized training and development program for lock & dam operator personnel involving on-the-job training, classroom instruction, & related correspondence courses. PD is developmental to the intermediate grade of WY-07 & the target of WY-08.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.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision. WY-5426-05 Level: To meet the screen out element, applicants should document experience and/or show the ability to: perform common lock operations tasks performing maintenance or repair tasks utilizing mechanical or electrical equipment such as lawn mowers, hedge clippers, electrical drills, and manual wrenches. - 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, 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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