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Lock Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pacific Lock Company

Machine Operator 1

Valencia, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Pacific Lock Company is seeking a Machine Operator/Loader for our CNC machines. Very little experience is necessary, we are happy to provide on the job training for those willing to learn. No heavy ...

Pacific Lock Company

Machine Operator 1

Valencia, CA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Pacific Lock Company is seeking a Machine Operator/Loader for our CNC machines. Very little experience is necessary, we are happy to provide on the job training for those willing to learn. No heavy ...

World Oil

Unit Operator 1

Compton, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

The Unit Operator 1 understands and operates pumps, process piping, valves, gauges and process ... This position understands and carries out lock-out/tag-out procedures to safely prepare equipment ...

World Oil

Unit Operator 1

Compton, CA · On-site

$23/hr

The Unit Operator 1 understands and operates pumps, process piping, valves, gauges and process ... This position understands and carries out lock-out/tag-out procedures to safely prepare equipment ...

Dons Lock & Key Inc

Locksmith

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr (+ commission)

Don's Lock & Key is seeking a FULL- TIME AUTOMOTIVE LOCKSMITH in the Long Beach area. The position ... We are family-owned and operated for more than 30+ years and treat our employees as so.

Dons Lock & Key Inc

Locksmith

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr (+ commission)

Don's Lock & Key is seeking a FULL- TIME AUTOMOTIVE LOCKSMITH in the Long Beach area. The position ... We are family-owned and operated for more than 30+ years and treat our employees as so.

Fresh Express

Machine Operator - Night Shift

Salinas, CA · On-site

$23.02/hr

Able to pass both written and hands-on LOTO (Lock-Out Tag-Out) training on a yearly basis and be able to successfully lock out machinery as needed. Can advance to Machine operator II through training ...

GROUPE SEB

Machine Set Up Operator

Montebello, CA · On-site

$25/hr

... Lock out tagout • Familiar with machines such as (Punch Press, Press Brake, Turret, Roller, shear ... Machine Operator I • Observes operation of machine and verifies conformance of formed or cut ...

Fresh Express

Machine Operator III - Night Shift

Salinas, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $21.75/hr

Able to pass both written and hands-on LOTO (Lock-Out Tag-Out) training on a yearly basis and be able to successfully lock out machinery as needed. * Can advance to Machine operator II through ...

Avanti MFG

Machine Operator

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Know parts and locations of Celli operating devises, such as alarms and lock system. * Initiate E-Stops under necessary usage conditions. * Work across multiple lines, as needed. * Perform routine ...

Ring Container Technologies

Operator I

Modesto, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Follow Lock out/Block Out/ Tag out policy. * Wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) where ... Perform necessary Operator Checklists. * Perform data collection of quality measurements as ...

Ring Container Technologies

Operator I

Modesto, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Follow Lock out/Block Out/ Tag out policy. * Wear proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) where ... Perform necessary Operator Checklists. * Perform data collection of quality measurements as ...

Avanti

Machine Operator

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Know parts and locations of Celli operating devises, such as alarms and lock system. * Initiate E-Stops under necessary usage conditions. * Work across multiple lines, as needed. * Perform routine ...

Avanti

Machine Operator

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Know parts and locations of Celli operating devises, such as alarms and lock system. * Initiate E-Stops under necessary usage conditions. * Work across multiple lines, as needed. * Perform routine ...

Hormel Foods

3rd Shift Warehouse Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

The warehouse operator's responsibilities include reporting any broken, damaged, or malfunctioning ... Must demonstrate accurate lock out/Tag out * Team player, ability to adapt to changing demands, and ...

Westlake

Operator

Lodi, CA · On-site

$23.87 - $30.62/hr

Westlake Pipe & Fittings is an industry leader in product development with Certa-Lok spline-lock ... A C or B Operator performs all duties and SOPs as listed in the Quality Manual. * Prepare ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsLock Operator JobsLock Operator Jobs in California

Lock Operator information

See California salary details

$17

$23

$33

How much do lock operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lock operator in California is $23.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $25.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 does a lock operator do?

A lock operator controls the movement of boats through locks on waterways, opening and closing gates to raise or lower water levels. They operate mechanical or electronic equipment, monitor safety procedures, and ensure smooth transit for vessels. The role often requires knowledge of navigation rules and safety protocols.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Lock Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lock Operator job openings:

Lock Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lock Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,135 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Machine Operator 1

Pacific Lock Company

Valencia, CA • On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

 
 

Pacific Lock Company is seeking a Machine Operator/Loader for our CNC machines. Very little experience is necessary, we are happy to provide on the job training for those willing to learn. No heavy lifting required, just working with small parts. Candidate needs to be able to stand while working at the machine. Familiarity with using hand tools or being around machines is helpful. This position will report to the Production Manager.

PACLOCK is not a “job shop”. We are a manufacturer of padlocks and produce large volumes of parts. This candidate will be expected to become familiar with existing processes and programs while maintaining quality and safety standards.