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Lock And Dam Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Lindy Group

Inland Marine Boat Pilot

Monaca, PA

$44.96/hr

Inland Marine Boat Pilot Trumbull-Brayman Joint Venture Montgomery Lock & Dam Project - Monaca ... This is a long-term, full-time position responsible for operating project vessels supporting heavy ...

Brayman Construction

Union Boat Pilot

Felicity, OH · On-site

$44.96/hr

Brayman Construction is seeking an experienced Union Boat Pilot to support the Meldahl Lock & Dam Project in Felicity, Ohio. This long-term, full-time union position is responsible for operating ...

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Lock And Dam Operator information

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

As of Jun 9, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 93% Full Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,774 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Inland Marine Boat Pilot

PJ Dick-Trumbull-Lindy Group

Monaca, PA • On-site

$44.96/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Inland Marine Boat Pilot

Trumbull-Brayman Joint Venture Montgomery Lock & Dam Project - Monaca, Pennsylvania

Trumbull Corporation is seeking an experienced union Inland Marine Boat Pilot to support the Montgomery Lock & Dam Project in Monaca, Pennsylvania, a major U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) infrastructure project located on the Ohio River navigation system with an estimated 8-year duration.

This is a long-term, full-time position responsible for operating project vessels supporting heavy civil construction activities. The Boat Pilot will operate towboats and support vessels used to position barges, floating cranes, and other marine equipment within an active inland river navigation pool.

This position offers stable, long-term employment on a high-profile federal infrastructure project supporting the U.S. inland waterway system.

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Schedule & Compensation

The typical work schedule is Monday through Friday - approximately 40 hours per week, with additional overtime available based on project needs and in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement.

This is a union position, and the successful candidate will become a member of the applicable Operating Engineers Local.

Compensation includes:

  • Union wage starting at $44.96 per hour based on experience
  • Overtime pay
  • Medical / Prescription Drug Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Pension Plan
  • Additional benefits provided through the collective bargaining agreement

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Key Responsibilities

The Boat Pilot is responsible for safely operating project vessels and supporting marine construction activities within an active inland river navigation pool.

Responsibilities include:

  • Operating towboats and support vessels used for construction operations
  • Positioning and maneuvering construction barges, crane barges, and floating equipment
  • Assisting with marine construction activities including pile driving operations and barge crane work
  • Monitoring river conditions and coordinating vessel movements within the inland navigation system
  • Working closely with marine crews, deckhands, and equipment operators to support field operations
  • Ensuring safe vessel operation and compliance with USACE requirements and Coast Guard regulations
  • Performing daily inspections of vessels and marine equipment
  • Maintaining communication with project supervision and marine fleet personnel
  • Assisting with general marine operations and maintaining safe work areas
  • The Boat Pilot is expected to operate vessels safely while supporting efficient marine construction operations on the project.

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Qualifications & Education

  • Minimum 5 years of experience operating towboats or similar inland marine vessels
  • Minimum 10 years of marine experience
  • Experience operating vessels within inland river navigation systems
  • Experience supporting marine construction operations or barge fleet movements preferred
  • Knowledge of river navigation practices, barge handling, and vessel positioning
  • Familiarity with lock and dam navigation procedures
  • Strong understanding of marine safety practices and navigation rules
  • Ability to work effectively with marine crews and construction personnel
  • Commitment to maintaining safe vessel operations
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or equivalent marine license required
  • Recent and verifiable work history required

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Work Environment

Work is performed on and around water within an active inland river navigation pool supporting heavy civil construction operations. Duties involve operating vessels and working aboard towboats, barges, and floating equipment in varying weather and river conditions.


Individuals with Disabilities: PJ Dick-Trumbull-The Lindy Group wants all interested and qualified candidates to be able to use the career site to review and apply for employment opportunities. If you have a disability and need an accommodation to access this site, please contact us for assistance at 412.807.2000 or email us at careers@pjdick.com.
PJ Dick-Trumbull-The Lindy Group strives to create a diverse, safe, welcoming, and inclusive work environment in which all teams can excel.
We are an Equal Opportunity and VEVRAA Federal Contracting Employer and welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates, including covered veterans, minorities, females, and people with disabilities. Our policy is clear: We do not discriminate based on any characteristic protected by law.
To view our EEO policy, click here; to view our Section 503 and VEVRAA Affirmative Action Policy, click here.