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Lock Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Ingevity

Entry Level Operator

Wickliffe, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position is responsible for operating production equipment in the carbon plant. How you will ... Perform Lock Out Tag Out as necessary * Ensure environmental permits are satisfied * Keeps work ...

Ingevity

Entry Level Operator

Wickliffe, KY · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This position is responsible for operating production equipment in the carbon plant. How you will ... Perform Lock Out Tag Out as necessary * Ensure environmental permits are satisfied * Keeps work ...

North American Stainless

Hot Mill PS Crane Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

GENERAL This position of Crane operator is responsible for all operating function as listed below ... Must follow all Lock out Tag out (LOTO) guidelines for designated machines7. Must follow all ...

DFM Industrial

Compactor

Cannel City, KY · On-site

Compactor Operator A Compactor Operator works in a high traffic warehouse and will operate various ... Cleans fans and cobwebs above 25 feet use of aerial lifts which may require lock out-tag out.

North American Stainless

Hot Mill PS Crane Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

GENERAL This position of Crane operator is responsible for all operating function as listed below ... Lock out Tag out (LOTO) guidelines for designated machines 7. Must follow all Environmental ...

North American Stainless

Hot Mill PS Crane Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

GENERAL This position of Crane operator is responsible for all operating function as listed below ... Lock out Tag out (LOTO) guidelines for designated machines 7. Must follow all Environmental ...

Amcor

Machine Operator II - One Step

Nicholasville, KY · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Understand and utilize Lock Out Tag Out * Additional Tasks: Perform other duties as assigned by ... Proficient in operating and troubleshooting relevant equipment. * Completion of 8-week training ...

Amcor plc

Machine Operator II - One Step

Nicholasville, KY · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Understand and utilize Lock Out Tag Out * Additional Tasks: Perform other duties as assigned by ... Proficient in operating and troubleshooting relevant equipment. * Completion of 8-week training ...

North American Stainless

Billet Loading Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Must follow all Lock out Tag out (LOTO) guidelines for designated machines7. Must follow all Environmental Policies and Regulations8. Maintain a clean and safe work areaWORK ENVIRONMENT:1. Work in ...

New

North American Stainless

Billet Loading Operator

Ghent, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Acid PPE 5. Report to the Safety Coordinator, Group Lead or Supervisor any contravention of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations or Company policy 6. Must follow all Lock out Tag ...

New

Unique Industries

Machine Operator- 1st Shift

Louisville, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

The Machine Operator will also be responsible for inspecting parts to specifications and making any ... Knowledge and enforcement of machine safety, i.e., lock-out/tagout procedures, hand tool safety ...

Unique Industries

Machine Operator- 2nd Shift

Louisville, KY · On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

The Machine Operator will also be responsible for inspecting parts to specifications and making any ... Knowledge and enforcement of machine safety, i.e., lock-out/tagout procedures, hand tool safety ...

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Showing results 41-60

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.

Entry Level Operator

Ingevity

Wickliffe, KY • On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Ingevity rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 103 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Job Family Group:
Manufacturing Operations
Are you ready to do something remarkable? Ready to collaborate with an incredible team to solve problems that improve people's lives? Meet Ingevity.
At Ingevity, we develop innovations that purify, protect and enhance the world around us. Our products enable oil to flow better, crops to grow fuller, roads to last longer and ensure that the air we all breathe is cleaner.
Our people come from all different backgrounds and help reimagine new possibilities daily. We understand there is no challenge too big and no contribution too small. We seek out new ideas for tackling complex problems and celebrate achieving the improbable. We value each person's unique talents and synergize them to create meaningful impact and sustainable solutions for our customers and our world.
Bold. Energetic. Ingenious. Genuine. If these qualities describe you, we'd love for you to join Ingevity!
Position overview: This position is responsible for operating production equipment in the carbon plant.
How you will impact Ingevity:
  • Monitor DCS graphics and controls to effectively operator equipment
  • Respond to DCS alarms in a timely manner
  • Ensure the DCS controls are monitored at all times by qualified individuals
  • Operate equipment in a stable manner during "start up" or "shut down" conditions
  • Report and address any abnormalities
  • Perform minor equipment troubleshooting activities
  • Ability to conduct risk assessment and authorize maintenance personnel to conduct work in their assigned area
  • Perform any standard testing required for the area
  • Follows DOIs (Daily Operating Instructions)
  • Emails required positions on vital information
  • Records relevant information in log sheets at end of the shift
  • Perform Lock Out Tag Out as necessary
  • Ensure environmental permits are satisfied
  • Keeps work area clean
  • Participate in incident investigations as needed

What you need to Succeed:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Two years of production experience
  • Demonstrate math skills commensurate with the job requirements.
  • Strong written and oral communication
  • Strong computer skills
  • Ability to think ahead and coordinate - be proactive
  • Ability to manage situations under pressure
  • Pay keen attention to detail to detect process abnormalities

Physical Requirements:
The requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee:
  • Must be able to work at heights
  • Must be able to work in confined spaces
  • Must not have a problem working outside (in the elements) for short periods of time
  • Must be able to observe and hear warning signs and signals within all areas of the company
  • Must be able to stand 12 hours a day (with periodic breaks allowed) and walk up to an hour
  • Employee must be able to wear protective eye wear
  • Employee must be able to wear protective hearing gear
  • Specific vision ability required by this job includes close vision
  • Must be able to type on computer keyboard

Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an encountered while performing the essential functions of this job:
  • Work is performed primarily in a outdoor or warehouse environment.
  • Work is performed in a dusty/carbon environment.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to low decibels but is constant
  • Must be able to work in a fast-paced, team environment
  • Must be able to stay working at a given station, standing or sitting for up to 12 hours at a time
  • Pay keen attention to detail to detect process abnormalities

This role is eligible for relocation assistance.
This role is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. The successful candidate must not now, or in the future, require sponsorship to work in the US.
Ingevity is a company made up of extraordinary people of every race, religion and background, all worthy of the same dignity. Our differences are one of our great strengths. Join us in building a culture of increasing diversity and respect - a culture where everyone belongs.
Ingevity is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled.
Recruiting Agencies: Ingevity does not accept unsolicited resumes and therefore, will not be responsible for any fees associated with unsolicited resumes.

What Ingevity employees say

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About Ingevity

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ingevity, we develop innovations that purify, protect and enhance the world around us. Our products enable oil to flow better, crops to grow fuller, roads to last longer and ensure that the air we all breathe is cleaner.

Industry

Chemical manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Charleston, SC, US

Year founded

1846

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