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Lock And Dam Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Lock And Dam Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$16

$21

$31

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lock and dam operator in Arizona is $21.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $24.42 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 job categories do people searching Lock And Dam Operator jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Lock And Dam Operator jobs in Arizona are:
Infographic showing various Lock And Dam Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,452 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

$31.94/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


U.S. Department Of The Interior rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

413th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

This position is located with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, San Carlos Irrigation Project in Peridot, Arizona.Qualifications:Your application must show that you demonstrate the ability to perform Lock and Dam Tender work.
1 - The incumbent is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of all facilities at the dam which includes the Project camp, government quarters, storage buildings, office building, power plant, control room, storage tanks, measuring flume, communication system, remote early warning system, access roads, grounds, vehicles and equipment.
2 - Provides, maintains, and performs routine maintenance on the dam's outlet works system, including penstocks, slide gates, butterfly gates, cylinder gates, and emergency generator.
3 - Performs miscellaneous maintenance repairs and replacements to include but not limited to cleaning, plumbing, painting, testing, lubricating, calibrating, carpentry, heavy equipment operation, electrical wiring and record keeping.
4 - Aids in the operation and routine maintenance on the dam's outlet works system including penstocks, slide gates, butterfly gates, cylinder gates and emergency generator.
5 - Performs monitoring of seepage and cracking and other items related to safety of dams.
If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN-OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone. Address your knowledge, skills and/or abilities in the areas shown in the job-related factors.
EXPERIENCE: Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Qualification Standard Handbook X-118C; for additional information click here http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/x-118c/Tabindx.asp
Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must meet any screen-out element(s) listed, and show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on the quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.
All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement.
Merit Promotion candidates must also meet time-in-grade requirements by the announcement closing date.
Additional selections may be made from this announcement if identical vacancies occur in the same location within 90 days from the closing date.
Education:Generally education is not applicable.Employment Type: OTHER

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