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Lock Keeper Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Laundry Butler Inc

Laundry Attendant

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Job Duties: - Helping self-serve customers - Processing large amounts of fluff and fold orders (Sorting, washing, drying, folding) - Be able to multitask - Keeping a clean facility -Close & lock down ...

Laundry Butler Inc

Laundry Attendant

Costa Mesa, CA

$17/hr

Job Duties: - Helping self-serve customers - Processing large amounts of fluff and fold orders (Sorting, washing, drying, folding) - Be able to multitask - Keeping a clean facility -Close & lock down ...

Laundry Butler Inc

Laundry Attendant

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Job Duties: - Helping self-serve customers - Processing large amounts of fluff and fold orders (Sorting, washing, drying, folding) - Be able to multitask - Keeping a clean facility -Close & lock down ...

Plaza Home Mortgage, Inc.

Account Executive

San Diego, CA · On-site

$15.50/hr

Update lock-in file and purge cancellations and expired locks daily. * Update rate line information ... Managers are accountable for keeping Plaza's workplace free from discrimination and ensuring that ...

beaconresidential

$18 - $18.75/hr

... door/lock repair, and ceramic tile repair. * Perform minor drywall patch work, painting ... Seasonal tasks such as leaf removal and keeping outdoor areas clean and well-kept. * Performs ...

Mercury

Senior Product Manager - Users

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$200K - $250K/yr

Linus Yale patented the modern pin tumbler lock in 1861, and hotels took to it immediately. The ... while keeping the core product simple. Every product Mercury adds brings new kinds of users and ...

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All JobsLock Keeper JobsLock Keeper Jobs in California

Lock Keeper information

See California salary details

$12

$23

$35

How much do lock keeper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for lock keeper in California is $24.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lock keeper?

A Lock Keeper is responsible for operating and maintaining canal or river locks to assist boats in safely passing through. Their duties include controlling water levels, opening and closing lock gates, and ensuring the lock operates efficiently. They may also provide advice to boaters, monitor for safety hazards, and conduct basic maintenance. Lock Keepers often work in all weather conditions and may be employed by waterways authorities or conservation organizations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a lock keeper?

As a Lock Keeper, your daily responsibilities include operating and maintaining lock gates, assisting with the safe passage of boats or barges, and monitoring water levels. You'll conduct routine inspections and minor repairs on mechanical systems, as well as record vessel movements and report any issues to management. Collaboration with other lock keepers, captains, and maintenance crews is common, especially during busy periods or emergencies. The role requires spending much of your time outdoors and being prepared for variable weather conditions. Staying vigilant and attentive ensures both efficiency and safety for all waterway users.

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

To thrive as a Lock Keeper, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of hydraulic and water management systems, often complemented by on-the-job training or vocational coursework. Familiarity with lock operation panels, maintenance tools, and safety procedures is essential for daily duties. Excellent communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are valued soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure safe, timely, and efficient passage of vessels and the proper functioning of the waterway system.

Do lock keepers get paid?

Lock keepers are typically paid employees who earn wages for maintaining and operating lock systems, often working full-time or part-time schedules. Their pay varies based on location, experience, and employer, and may include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

How do you become a lock keeper?

To become a lock keeper, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must undergo on-the-job training to learn operating procedures and safety protocols. Some positions may require knowledge of mechanical systems and the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions; certifications are generally not mandatory but can be beneficial.

What qualifications do lock keepers need?

Lock keepers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must have good communication and mechanical skills. Some positions may require knowledge of operating lock machinery and safety procedures, and certifications in first aid or safety can be beneficial.

What are popular job titles related to Lock Keeper jobs in California?

For Lock Keeper jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lock Keeper jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lock Keeper jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Lock Keeper jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lock Keeper job openings:

Lock Keeper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lock Keeper job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,911 per year, or $24 per hour.

Lead Keeper - Desert Wilds

Palm Desert, CA • On-site

The Living Desert
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about The Living Desertexternal

$26.47/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
The Living Desert (TLD) is seeking qualified candidates to join our Animal Care department as a Lead Keeper on the Desert Wilds Team. The Animal Care Lead Keeper is a frontline position supporting Animal Care leadership, area staff, and animal residents. The Lead Keeper provides high-quality daily care, husbandry, and behavioral management for assigned animals, habitats, and facilities. The Lead Keeper also performs Animal Care Keeper duties and follows directions from Animal Care management. This position requires strong knowledge of husbandry and animal training, as well as the ability to lead, mentor, and serve as a role model for staff while supporting TLD's shared vision and continued growth.
Position Summary:
Desert Wilds encompasses TLD's Americas and Australia sections, including cougar, Mexican wolf, badger, coati, peccary, three large mixed-species aviaries, venomous and non-venomous reptiles, wallabies, and echidna, as well as the cheetah and patas monkey habitats. The Lead Keeper participates in animal husbandry, training, habitat renovation, staff training, and medical procedures and supports leadership in implementing Desert Wilds habitat management philosophies.
Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Make sound decisions regarding animal, staff, and guest well-being while supporting the greater good of the zoo and TLD's mission and forward-thinking vision.
  • Work independently with minimal supervision while remaining a cooperative, collaborative team member with strong guest service skills.
  • Demonstrate strong critical thinking, flexibility, organization, time management, and multitasking skills, including the ability to manage interruptions, competing priorities, and high-pressure situations.
  • Communicate honestly, proactively, and professionally with Animal Care management regarding accomplishments, issues, challenges, and requests for information.
  • Serve as a liaison between Animal Care management and keeper staff as needed.
  • Provide and receive constructive feedback and contribute to a positive workplace by addressing negative talk and speculation.
  • Provide mentorship, training, and guidance to Animal Care keepers, interns, volunteers, and new team members, including routines, policies, procedures, organization, communication, and positive reinforcement training.
  • Serve as a role model for safe, professional, and effective animal care practices and proactively identify opportunities to improve safety.
  • Train staff on area SOPs and strings and ensure animal and staff training protocols are followed.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of AZA accreditation and USDA standards and recognize and address inspection concerns with minimal guidance.
  • Provide timely updates and recommendations for SOPs and protocols and respond promptly to emails, surveys, and questionnaires.
  • Work safely with potentially dangerous animals using Two Key/Two Lock/Two Keeper and Lock Out Tag Out Engineering Control systems and work with venomous snakes and lizards following required on-site training.
  • Remain calm and professional during unpredictable or high-pressure situations, including emergencies, personnel challenges, scheduling issues, and deadlines, and follow procedures through resolution.
  • Deliver excellence in animal care, welfare, habitat presentation, and guest engagement.
  • Regularly assess assigned animals' training performance and work with keepers to achieve behavioral targets.
  • Support Animal Care leadership with area projects and tasks, including supply ordering, animal procedures, programs, scheduling, and communication with other TLD staff.
  • Lead at least one major project annually as determined by Animal Care Management.
  • Consistently achieve above-average annual performance evaluations.
  • Perform all duties outlined in the Animal Care Keeper job description.
  • Meet Lead Keeper eligibility requirements by completing two years as an Animal Care Keeper or equivalent experience.

Requirements
Qualifications
  • AA, AS, or higher in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or related field and at least one year of exotic animal experience preferred; Bachelor's degree preferred.
  • Animal training and public presentation experience are a plus.
  • Equivalent training and experience may substitute for education. Generally, one year of full-time exotic animal experience equates to one year of college.
  • Valid California driver license.
  • Must be insurable under The Living Desert's automobile policy.
  • COVID vaccination plus one booster required.
  • Annual TB test with negative reading required.

Working Conditions
Essential Physical Tasks: Standing, walking, twisting, climbing, crawling, kneeling, reaching, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
Typical Conditions: Exposure to extreme heat, chemicals, dust, and airborne materials. Work with potentially dangerous animals, including large ungulates, carnivores, and venomous species.
Schedule: Weekend and holiday work required.
Travel: Conference and workshop attendance may be available with funding; some or all expenses may be covered.
This specification identifies the major responsibilities and requirements but is not all inclusive. Additional job-related responsibilities may be assigned.
Application
To apply for current positions, visit www.livingdesert.org/ careers and submit a resume, three professional references, and a cover letter explaining why you are a strong fit for the position. Positions remain open until filled.
Desert Conservation Through Preservation, Education, and Appreciation.
Salary Description
$26.47/hr

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