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Lock Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Wood

Plant Operator ll

Louisville, KY · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Able to understand and verify adherence to Contractor's Lock out/Tag out operation and procedures ... Ability to read and interpret power plant process flow diagrams and operating procedures.

Wood

Plant Operator ll

Louisville, KY · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Able to understand and verify adherence to Contractor's Lock out/Tag out operation and procedures ... Ability to read and interpret power plant process flow diagrams and operating procedures.

North American Stainless

Bar Turner 1 Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

GENERAL The Bar Turner 1 Operator is responsible for all the functions as listed below. Operation ... General safety 3. 6S Standards and requirements 4. Lock out tag out/try out5. ISO 6. AS-4007. Crane ...

North American Stainless

Pickling Exit Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

GENERAL The Pickling Exit Operator is responsible for all the functions as listed below. Operation ... Lock out tag out4. ISO5. AS-4006. Crane training7. Forklift training8. Time sheets9. Time off ...

New

North American Stainless

Bar Turner 1 Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

GENERAL The Bar Turner 1 Operator is responsible for all the functions as listed below. Operation ... and requirements 4. Lock out tag out/try out 5. ISO 6. AS-400 7. Crane training 8. Forklift ...

North American Stainless

Bar Turner 1 Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

GENERAL The Bar Turner 1 Operator is responsible for all the functions as listed below. Operation ... and requirements 4. Lock out tag out/try out 5. ISO 6. AS-400 7. Crane training 8. Forklift ...

North American Stainless

Pickling Exit Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

GENERAL The Pickling Exit Operator is responsible for all the functions as listed below. Operation ... ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 1 General overview of the LP 2. General safety 3. Lock out tag out 4. ISO ...

New

North American Stainless

Pickling Exit Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

GENERAL The Pickling Exit Operator is responsible for all the functions as listed below. Operation ... ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 1. General overview of the LP 2. General safety 3. Lock out tag out 4. ISO ...

New

Nrg Bluewater Wind

$55 - $75/hr

Plant Operator/Operator Trainees operate and monitor auxiliary equipment and systems which support ... Ability to Tag Out/Lock Out equipment per NRG's Tag Out/Lock Out procedure. * Ability to perform ...

New

3A Composites USA

Extrusion Operator

Glasgow, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Extrusion Operator 7:50pm-8am 12 hour 4 star Rotation Shift: 7:50pm-8am 12 hour 4 star Rotation ... Understanding of lock-out/tag-out procedures: ZES, IES, etc. * Ability to operate a fork lift in a ...

3A Composites

Extrusion Operator

Glasgow, KY

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Extrusion Operator 7:50pm-8am 12 hour 4 star Rotation Shift: 7:50pm-8am 12 hour 4 star Rotation ... Understanding of lock-out/tag-out procedures: ZES, IES, etc. * Ability to operate a fork lift in a ...

3A Composites

Extrusion Operator

Glasgow, KY

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Extrusion Operator 7:50pm-8am 12 hour 4 star Rotation Shift: 7:50pm-8am 12 hour 4 star Rotation ... Understanding of lock-out/tag-out procedures: ZES, IES, etc. * Ability to operate a fork lift in a ...

North American Stainless

RG Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

GENERAL The Z-Mill Roll Grinder Operator is responsible for all operating functions of the roll ... Must follow all Lock out Tag out (LOTO) guidelines for designated machines7. Must follow all ...

3A Composites

Extrusion Operator

Glasgow, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Extrusion Operator ID: 1393 Location: Glasgow, KY Department: Operations Job Type: Non-exempt ... Understanding of lock-out/tag-out procedures: ZES, IES, etc. * Ability to operate a fork lift in a ...

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All JobsLock Operator JobsLock Operator Jobs in Kentucky

Lock Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$15

$20

$29

How much do lock operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lock operator in Kentucky is $20.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $22.74 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 Kentucky?

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

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

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

Lock Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lock Operator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,362 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

CNC Setup/Operator

Sargent & Greenleaf Inc

Nicholasville, KY • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description

Job Title: CNC Machine Operator    Department: Manufacturing 

FLSA Status: Not-Exempt Hourly    Travel:  None 

Reports to:  Manufacturing Supervisor   Location:  Nicholasville, KY 

The Sargent and Greenleaf (S&G) Lock Solutions Group delivers proven lock and door solutions that protect people and assets at home, at work, and in communities around the world. With trusted brands such as Sargent & Greenleaf, Delaney Hardware, Premier Steel Doors & Frames and MegaMet Industries, we can provide businesses and consumers high-security safe locks and locking systems, high-quality door hardware and fixtures, commercial-grade steel doors and frames, as well as multi-family and commercial security solutions.  

Our unique portfolio of lock and door solution brands serves a wide range of our customers' security needs across industries and applications. Together, we are on a mission to make the world more secure today and in the future. 

Job Summary: 

We are looking for a skilled Machine Operator to set up, maintain and operate machinery. You'll ensure the interminable and efficient running of production. 

Position Responsibilities:  

  • Set up machines (calibration, cleaning etc.) to start a production cycle 
  • Control and adjust machine settings (e.g. speed) 
  • Feed raw material or parts to semi-automated machines 
  • Inspect parts with precision and measuring tools 
  • Test operation of machines periodically 
  • Fix issues that might occur during the shift 
  • Check output to spot any machine-related mistakes or flaws 
  • Keep records of approved and defective units or final products 
  • Maintain activity logs 



Requirements

Position Qualifications: 

  • Proven experience as a machine operator 
  • Working knowledge of diverse high-speed machinery and measurement tools (caliper, micrometer etc.) 
  • Understanding of production procedures 
  • Adherence to health and safety regulations (e.g., constant use of protective gear) 
  • Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and manuals 
  • Analytical skills 
  • Attention to detail 
  • Teamwork and communication skills 
  • Physical stamina and strength 
  • High school diploma or equivalent; technical degree is a plus 



Apply