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Lock And Dam Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

MARINE MACHINERY MECHANIC

WI · On-site +1

$32.90 - $38.41/hr

Maintain and repair lock and dam operating equipment. * Perform abrasive blast cleaning on structures and machinery. * Apply protective paint coatings by spray and brush. * Conduct deckhand duties ...

WI · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Marine Operations provides services to include mechanical and hydraulic dredging, certified commercial diving, lock and dam repair, inspection, and debris removal, just to name a few. The end product ...

WI · On-site

$95 - $140/hr

Marine Operations provides services to include mechanical and hydraulic dredging, certified commercial diving, lock and dam repair, inspection, and debris removal, just to name a few. The end product ...

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Lock And Dam information

What is a lock and dam operator?

Lock and dam operators are professionals responsible for operating and maintaining locks and dams on navigable waterways. Their main duties include opening and closing lock gates to allow the passage of boats and ships, regulating water levels, and performing routine maintenance on mechanical equipment. They play a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient river traffic, flood control, and water management. Lock and dam operators often work for government agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and may be required to work in various weather conditions and on a rotating shift schedule.

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 mechanical aptitude, basic electrical knowledge, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, control panels, and safety protocols is typically required, and specialized training or certification in waterway operations is often beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure the safe and efficient operation of lock and dam facilities, protecting both infrastructure and users of the waterway.

What are some typical challenges faced by lock and dam operators, and how can job seekers prepare for them?

Lock and Dam Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, responding to mechanical malfunctions, and ensuring the safety of both the structure and waterway users. Job seekers can prepare by developing strong problem-solving skills, gaining familiarity with machinery and control systems, and staying up to date with safety regulations. Additionally, effective communication and teamwork are essential, as operators frequently coordinate with other crew members and vessel operators to maintain smooth and safe waterway navigation.

What is the difference between Lock And Dam vs Bridge Operator?

AspectLock And DamBridge Operator
Primary FunctionOperate and maintain lock and dam systems to control water levels and facilitate navigationOperate and monitor bridge mechanisms to allow or restrict vessel and vehicle passage
Work EnvironmentWaterways, lock stations, dam facilitiesBridges, control towers, roadway environments
Required CertificationsWaterway operation licenses, safety certificationsBridge operation licenses, safety certifications

Both Lock And Dam operators and Bridge Operators work in transportation infrastructure, requiring safety certifications and operating specialized equipment. While Lock And Dam roles focus on waterway navigation and water level management, Bridge Operators oversee vehicle and vessel movement at bridges. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths in transportation infrastructure maintenance and operation.

What are popular job titles related to Lock And Dam jobs in Wisconsin?

For Lock And Dam jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lock And Dam jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Lock And Dam jobs in Wisconsin are:

Infographic showing various Lock And Dam job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

LOCK AND DAM OPERATOR

Eastman, WI • On-site


U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$26.52/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


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: This permanent, full-time, seasonal position is with the St. Paul District. The position performs a variety of maintenance, repair, and operational duties at a navigation lock and dam.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.
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.
Minimum Qualifications at WY-05 (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision. Ability to perform common tasks including various maintenance or repair tasks utilizing mechanical or electrical equipment. Operate simple electrical or mechanical equipment such as lawn mower, hedge clippers, floor buffer, jackhammer, power threader, or power wrench. Work is under supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who reviews work for completion. - Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
Minimum Qualifications at WY-07 (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision. Ability to perform common tasks including operating lock chamber gates and lock chamber emptying and filling valves manually or by using simple mechanical equipment. Operate radio, hydraulic pumps, air compressor, standby generators and tow haulage equipment. Perform preventative maintenance tasks such as oiling and greasing cables, chains, and pulleys; cleaning and painting lock fixtures or other appurtenances; cleaning, sharpening and repairing tools and equipment. Work is under supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who reviews work for completion. - Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
Minimum Qualifications at WY-08 (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision. Ability to perform common lock operations tasks such as: operating electrically or hydraulically controlled lock and dam equipment, gates and valves. Make minor repairs to lock and dam equipment; apply locking procedures, policies, and laws regarding traffic right-of-way, sequence of operations and safe passage of hazardous commodities and damaged crafts; and comply with governing safety practices and procedures. Work is under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed. - 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, 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 or uncomfortably hot or cold areas, from falling objects, from working with electrical power tools, and from falls while working on lock walls, dam service bridge, etc. While possibility of drowning exists as a 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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