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Lock And Dam Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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Lock And Dam Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$16

$21

$30

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lock and dam operator in Alabama is $21.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $23.75 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 as a lock and dam operator?

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.

What are popular job titles related to Lock And Dam Operator jobs in Alabama? For Lock And Dam Operator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lock And Dam Operator jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Lock And Dam Operator jobs in Alabama are:
Lock And Dam Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lock And Dam Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,208 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Heavy Equipment/Crane Operator

R&D Maintenance Services, Inc

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Description:
Heavy Equipment/Mobile Crane Operator
Black Warrior – Tombigbee Waterway Project (Tuscaloosa AL)

R&D Maintenance Services, Inc. provides operations and maintenance services on U.S Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) projects throughout the southeast - since 1980. We are the Operations and Maintenance Contractor for the Black Warrior – Tombigbee Waterway Project providing machinery and facility maintenance and repair on several hundred miles of waterway and 9 locks/dams/spillways on the system. R&D is an EEO Employer. 

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Operates heavy equipment (dozer, loader, excavator, grader, and hydraulic rough terrain crane, etc.) to perform or assist in maintenance, repair, construction, or installation work. Operates and maintains equipment of heavy weight and complexity. Inspects equipment prior to use and ensures necessary equipment repairs are made; Performs preventive and scheduled maintenance tasks necessary to keep machinery, equipment, and tools in proper working condition. 

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS:
  • Operates a variety of heavy equipment including dozer, loader, excavator, and grader.
  • Operate mobile, hydraulic rough terrain crane (30-50 ton RT - onshore or barge-mounted) when required by the project.
  • Transports equipment and supplies to and from work sites. 
  • Responds to after hour emergencies.
  • Performs routine maintenance on equipment such as checking air, oil, water and other fluids. Uses hand and power tools.
  • Grades roads; Repairs drainage/spoil/disposal areas.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Knowledge of the principles, methods, standard practices, rigging, and techniques for heavy equipment operation.
  • NCCCO Certified (or willing and capable of attaining certification for 30/50-Ton RT crane) and ability to properly calculate lifting capacities, deductions, and center of gravities.
  • Knowledge of equipment maintenance and safe operations.
  • Ability to plan and schedule multiple tasks and effectively prioritize and plan work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; analyze and solve problems; make decisions; exercise good judgment; perform well under pressure; adapt well to change.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
  • Must have knowledge of manufacturer load charts, how to interpret/apply them, and mathematical ability to perform required measurements and calculations.
  • Ability to demonstrate overall safe work behavior; including the utilization of proper safety equipment and adhering to safety guidelines.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Must have five (5) years of experience as a heavy equipment operator.
  • NCCCO Certified (or willingness/ability to obtain certification) for 30/50-Ton hydraulic RT Crane.
  • Must be able to plan and execute all crane lift operations including material/equipment/personnel lifts.
  • Must possess a valid Alabama Class A driver’s license.
  • Must have knowledge of applicable crane operation load requirements and mathematical ability to perform required calculations.
  • Ability to demonstrate overall safe work behavior; including the utilization of proper safety equipment and adhering to safety guidelines.
  • Maintains various records related to work orders and assigned activities.
  • Required to successfully complete background check, MVR, and drug/alcohol screenings.
  • Overtime occasionally during regular work schedule; Significant overtime during lock closures or dam/spillway repairs (Days to weeks) - typically once annually but may be less or more.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Frequent walking and standing; frequent seated and standing equipment operation.
  • Often lifts/carries up to 20 pounds with occasional lifting up to 75 pounds; occasional pulling up to 100 pounds.
  • Occasional climbing ladders and working at heights.
  • Frequent use of power and hand tools.
  • Frequent use of arms and legs to operate machine controls.
  • Frequent balancing, kneeling, reaching (full range) bending, handling, feeling, climbing, smelling and twisting; occasional crawling and reaching; working in cramped and confined spaces; frequent climbing up/down to operator station.
BENEFITS:
  • Company Paid 401K Contribution.
  • Paid Employee Health insurance.
  • Employee Life insurance.
  • Paid Vacation & Sick Leave.
  • 11 Paid Holidays.
  • Safety Award Program.