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Lock Dam Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Lock Dam information

What is a Lock Dam job?

A Lock and Dam job involves operating and maintaining navigation structures that control water levels and vessel traffic on rivers and waterways. Workers in this role are responsible for assisting with locking boats through sections of a river, conducting routine maintenance, and ensuring safe and efficient waterway operations. This job is typically part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or similar organizations that manage inland waterways.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Lock Dam position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lock and Dam Operator, you need practical mechanical aptitude, basic electrical and hydraulic knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with control systems, tools for routine maintenance, and familiarity with safety regulations and waterway navigation are important technical requirements. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of locks and dams, often in coordination with vessel crews and other team members.

What does a typical day look like for a Lock and Dam Operator?

A typical day for a Lock and Dam Operator involves monitoring and controlling water levels, operating lock gates and valves for vessel passage, performing routine maintenance and inspections of equipment, and keeping detailed operational records. Operators work closely with commercial and recreational boat crews to coordinate safe transit through the lock system and must remain alert to changing weather and water conditions. The work is often performed in shifts to ensure 24/7 operation, sometimes requiring weekend or holiday hours. The environment combines indoor monitoring stations with regular outdoor activity around the lock and dam structure, making safety awareness and adaptability important.

Infographic showing various Lock Dam job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 54% Physical, 41% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Lock and Dam Operator

$21.77/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoW Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: 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 May Apply: US Citizens Period of Eligibility: 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. Positions advertised fall under the USACE Inland Marine Technology System (IMTS).
  • Employees participate in a formalized training and development program for Lock and Dam Operators involving on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and related correspondence courses.
  • Trainee positions afford the opportunity for career progression to the intermediate grade of WY-07; and final grade of WY-08 after successful completion of training and certification requirements.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision. At a minimum, your level of experience must show that you have performed various simple maintenance or repair tasks utilizing mechanical or electrical equipment; and operated simple electrical or mechanical equipment such as: lawn mowers, hedge clippers, electric drills, power wrenches, and hydraulic lifts. - 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, 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:IMTS Lock and Dam Operator Training and Certification Program
  • Newly-Appointed Lock and Dam Operators (LDOs) must successfully complete certification requirements before promotion to the full performance level may be effected.
  • Certification is not a condition of employment. However, failing to meet certification requirements could result in adverse consequences.
  • Certification is voluntary for Current LDOs. Although not required, current LDOs are encouraged to obtain certification as it may be helpful when seeking advancement through competitive or noncompetitive opportunities.
  • IMTS-Certified LDOs must successfully complete refresher training, as required, to maintain certification.
Employment Type: OTHER

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About Army Corps of Engineers

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US