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Lock Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

World Oil

Unit Operator 1

Compton, CA · On-site

$21 - $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 ...

World Oil

Unit Operator 1

Compton, CA

$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

$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

$21 - $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 ...

World Oil

Unit Operator 1

Compton, CA

$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

$21 - $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 ...

Cordia

Control Operator III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$38 - $40/hr

Control Operator III The Control Operator is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient ... JSA), Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) and assist in continual improvement. • Assist Maintenance ...

Dons Lock & Key Inc

Locksmith

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

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

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 ...

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 ...

Amtec Enterprise - 1

Be Seen First

Chemical Operator

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$22/hr

Clear understanding of lock-out, tag-out procedures. * Must be familiar with the standard operating procedure and operator manual for the safe operation of the equipment. * Clear understanding of ...

Avanti MFG

Machine Operator

Milpitas, CA · On-site

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 ...

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 ...

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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 Jun 9, 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 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 are lock operators and what do they do?

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 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 43% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,135 per year, or $23.1 per hour.
Unit Operator 1

Unit Operator 1

World Oil

Compton, CA • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Join Our Team!!
At World Oil Recycling, we strive to be an employer of choice by recruiting, developing, and retaining a high performing and diverse workforce. As a family-owned company, our focus in work life balance fosters a healthy, safe, and productive work environment for all employees.
World Oil Recycling values its amazing workforce that has contributed to the company's success for over 80 years! Learn more about us at: https://worldoilcorp.com/about-us/.
Position Summary:
The Unit Operator 1 understands and operates pumps, process piping, valves, gauges and process
controls. This position understands and carries out lock-out/tag-out procedures to safely prepare
equipment for maintenance for its essential duties at all times.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
Monitors and maintains process throughout to acheive prescribed production goals while
maintaining appropriate levels of quality control.
Carries out lock-out/tag-out procedures to safely prepare equipment for maintenance.
Interprets lab results and makes adjustments to process controls to achieve on-spec products.
Obtains process samples, runs analyticals and makes adjustments accordingly to maintain good
process chemistry in a safe manner at all times.
Documents and records logs and reports concerning the assigned unit and associated utilities.
Measures and maintains appropriate process plant and utilities chemistry.
Isolates and drains process equipment for maintenance activities.
Fills out logs and generates routine production reports.
Other Functions:
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
This role supervises the following positions:None.
As part of the Company's employment screening process, any applicant to whom an offer of employment is made must pass a test for controlled substances, under the procedures of World Oil Drug & Alcohol policy. Employment offers are conditioned on a negative test result.
EEO Statement: It is the policy of World Oil and its subsidiaries to provide equal opportunity for all applicants and employees. The Company does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, color, religion, sex/gender, gender identity/gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, military/veteran status, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetic information, reproductive health decision making, or any other status protected by state or federal law.

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