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Lock And Dam Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

IN

$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)

KY · 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 ...

US Department of the Army

IN

$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 ...

US Department of the Army

KY

$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 operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 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
Infographic showing various Lock And Dam Operator 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

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Winfield, MO • On-site

$24.37/hr

Other

Posted 11 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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