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Lock Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

360clean

Future Opening: Cleaning Tech

Florence, AL · On-site

$10/hr

If this sounds like you, a career with an independently owned and operated 360clean franchise could ... Conduct all work in accordance with company procedures - including safety, door lock, time ...

360clean

Future Opening: Cleaning Tech

Florence, AL

$10/hr

If this sounds like you, a career with an independently owned and operated 360clean franchise could ... Conduct all work in accordance with company procedures - including safety, door lock, time ...

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Lock Operator information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lock operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lock Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of waterway operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with lock control systems, communication radios, and maintenance tools is typically required. Strong situational awareness, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help in responding to emergencies and coordinating with vessel crews. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and timely passage of vessels through locks, minimizing risks and maintaining smooth waterway operations.

How does a lock operator typically collaborate with other team members and vessel crews during daily operations?

Lock Operators work closely with a team, including other operators, maintenance personnel, and supervisors, to ensure the safe and efficient passage of vessels through locks. They frequently communicate with vessel crews via radio or signal systems to coordinate entry, mooring, and exit procedures. Teamwork is essential, especially during high-traffic periods or when handling emergency situations, as operators must synchronize their actions and follow established protocols. Regular collaboration and clear communication help maintain safety, minimize delays, and ensure smooth operations along the waterway.

What is a lock operator?

Lock operators are responsible for operating and maintaining canal locks, which help boats and ships move between different water levels on rivers and canals. Their duties include opening and closing lock gates, controlling water levels, monitoring vessel traffic, and ensuring the safe and efficient passage of vessels through the lock system. Lock operators also handle routine maintenance, communicate with boat crews, and respond to emergencies or equipment malfunctions. This role is critical for supporting safe and efficient waterway transportation.

What does a lock operator do?

A lock operator controls the movement of boats through locks on waterways, opening and closing gates and operating machinery to raise or lower vessels to different water levels. They monitor safety procedures, communicate with boat crews, and may use tools or equipment to ensure smooth transit. The role often requires knowledge of waterway operations and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Lock Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectLock OperatorCrane Operator
Required CertificationsLock operation license, safety trainingCrane operation certification, OSHA compliance
Work EnvironmentLocks, waterways, transportation hubsConstruction sites, industrial settings
Industry UsageMaritime, transportation, infrastructureConstruction, shipping, manufacturing

While both Lock Operators and Crane Operators work in industrial environments requiring safety certifications, Lock Operators primarily manage waterway locks and transportation infrastructure, whereas Crane Operators handle heavy lifting on construction sites. Their roles differ in environment and specific skills, but both are essential for infrastructure and transportation industries.

What are popular job titles related to Lock Operator jobs in Alabama?

For Lock Operator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lock Operator jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Lock Operator jobs in Alabama are:

Lock Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lock Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Machine Utility Operator, 2nd Shift

Packaging Corporation of America

Huntsville, AL

$19.44/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

As a Fortune 500 company, Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is an ideas and solutions company.  Our corrugated packaging business seeks to be the leader in helping our customers — large and small — package, transport and display products of all kinds.  Our white paper business delivers Paper With Purpose by providing the highest level of customer service and operational excellence.  We have approximately 15,000 team members in more than 100 locations in the United States that strive to meet the local needs of our customers.  Our mission is to serve the needs of our customers, today and tomorrow, with products and services that exceed expectations for performance and environmental responsibility.

People • Customers • Trust

Location: 222 Celtic Dr, Madison AL

Pay Rate: $19.44, plus .50 shift differential

Hours: 4 day workweek (Mon-Thurs 3:30pm-2:00am)

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Work as part of a team in support of a manufacturing operation with a goal of increasing productivity; decreasing downtime and waste.

Assume active role in overall plant and facilities-related work. Position requires assisting all jobs on the plant floor.

Follow all company safety rules and lock-out tag-out procedures.

Maintain shop and shop equipment per 5S Standards.

May be required to stack parts up to 30 lbs. for a period of up to 12 hours

Other duties as assigned.

 

 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

High School Graduate or GED.

Be passionate about maintaining a safe work environment.

Must be able to work overtime and weekends as needed.

Must be willing to work the first and second shift.

Must have a good attendance record.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

 

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

Experience in a packaging or other manufacturing environment is preferred.

Possess an understanding that temperatures and volumes of work may vary.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Must be willing to work closely on a day-to-day basis with other production personnel.

Ability to share ideas with others to solve problems of essential importance.

Excellent communication skills.

Thrive in a cross-functional team environment.

Work with a sense of urgency to reduce downtime of machines.

Strong verbal communication skills.

Ability to work in a fast paced environment and handle multiple requests simultaneously.


PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Veterans/Disabled and other protected categories.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

  • Starting salary for position: $19.44 per hour. 
  • Bonus: Annual – Based upon achievement of plant performance metrics.
  • Paid Vacation: 1 week per calendar year. Pro-rata Vacation during the initial year of hire based upon start date within the calendar year. 
  • Paid Holidays.
  • Within the first 30 days of employment, an employee (and their dependents) is eligible to enroll in certain benefit coverages -- medical, dental, and vision – and are automatically enrolled in life, AD&D, and disability coverages.
  • Upon hire, an employee is automatically enrolled in the 401k plan. The plan offers both pre-tax and Roth contribution options along with employer provided matching contributions.
  • Disclaimer: The Compensation and Benefits information in this posting represents PCA’s good faith and reasonable estimate of what it may pay for this position. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Qualified Applicants must apply at careers.packagingcorp.com to be considered.

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