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

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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 a typical day like for a Lock And Dam Operator?

A typical day for a Lock And Dam Operator involves monitoring and operating machinery to control water levels and lock gates, ensuring the safe passage of boats and barges through the waterway. Operators inspect equipment for proper functioning, record and report water and weather conditions, and perform routine maintenance as needed. The role often requires working in shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as the facilities operate around the clock. Collaboration with other operators, maintenance personnel, and vessel crews is common to ensure smooth and safe waterway operations.

What does a Lock And Dam Operator do?

A Lock And Dam Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining navigation locks and dams to ensure the safe passage of boats and vessels through waterways. They monitor water levels, control gates and valves, and communicate with vessel operators to coordinate lock operations. Additionally, they perform routine maintenance, inspections, and minor repairs to ensure the facility operates safely and efficiently. This role is critical for maintaining commercial and recreational navigation on controlled waterways.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Lock And Dam Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lock And Dam Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, waterway operations, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with hydraulic controls, monitoring gauges, and computerized control systems is essential, and some positions may require certification in waterway operations or safety procedures. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are important soft skills for handling emergencies and coordinating with team members and watercraft operators. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of locks and dams, which are critical for commercial and recreational navigation.

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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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