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Lock Operator Jobs in Mississippi (NOW HIRING)

... OPERATORS (WAREHOUSE) who are team players, versatile, and dependable! SHIFT AND PAY RATE * 1ST ... Working knowledge and understanding of, MSDS, lock-out/tag-out, and OSHA requirements. * Excellent ...

Press Operator-1

Oxford, MS · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Performs lock-out/tag-out procedures and preventative maintenance checks. * Ensures employees are ... Skill in operating a lift truck. * Skill in establishing effective working relationships with other ...

Facilities Custodian

Meridian, MS · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Lock and unlock windows, doors, and gates * Ensure grounds areas are clean and orderly * Utilize ... Previous experience operating a forklift preferred

Facilities Custodian

Gulfport, MS · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Lock and unlock windows, doors, and gates * Ensure grounds areas are clean and orderly * Utilize ... Previous experience operating a forklift preferred

Showing results 21-40

Lock Operator information

See Mississippi salary details

$16

$22

$32

How much do lock operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for lock operator in Mississippi is $22.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.13 and $24.81 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 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 Mississippi?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Lock Operator job openings in Mississippi as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,192 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

4663 - Operator Equip Apprentice 1

Black & Veatch Family of Companies

Cleveland, MS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

We believe real value is powered by the unique skills and experiences of our professionals. The interchange of ideas from a diverse group of people gives our teams an expanded perspective and the ability to find better solutions for our clients.

Company : Overland Contracting Inc  

Req Id : 116421 

Job Title : 4663 - Operator Equip Apprentice 1  

Location : PJCLEVELA2 

Business Unit Sector : OCI-BVOPS-CONSTRUCT EXCL CEFS 

Opportunity Type : Craft (non-union) 

Relocation eligible : No 

Full time/Part time : Full-Time  

Project Only Hire : No 

Visa Sponsorship Available: No 

Job Summary

Apprentice will receive classroom and on the job training for Construction Equipment Operator.  

Key Responsibilities

Safety and Work Habits                

Demonstrate positive working habits and work attendance

Practice safety procedures including pre task and planning and identifying hazards

Demonstrate knowledge of performing Lock Out Tag Out and other safety requirements

Use and Care Hand Tools, Power Tools, Equipment and Machinery         

Identify, select, and properly use tools, equipment, machinery, and materials

Load, move, and unload materials and equipment to the appropriate locations

Inspect, clean, and service tools, equipment, and machinery as required

Operate Heavy-Duty Construction or Installation Equipment and Machinery

Operate machinery such as bulldozers, trench excavators, road graders, or backhoes by properly using ignitions, throttles, switches, levers, and pedals to operate

Properly use and position trucks, tractors, power cranes, shovels, graders, or other machinery to load and move dirt, rocks, materials, and equipment

Load, secure, lift or hoist materials and equipment through proper hand and audio signals

Codes, Standards, Plans, Drawings, and Schematics

Review blueprints, plans, or diagrams to identify work requirements and sequences

Properly use lift plans and schematics to accurately excavate, transport and/or place materials

Document and record of use of materials and equipment, and any nonconformances

Locate underground services, including pipes and wires, prior to beginning work

Attend a sequence of Related Technical Instruction which will be delivered through a combination of traditional classroom training, virtual training and or independent study, which may include electronic media. Due to regional and local code differences and climate conditions, sequence of instructional competencies/modules are a suggestion only.  Apprentices must complete a minimum of 144 hours per year of related instruction from a combination of three areas: (1) Introduction to Construction; (2) Safety; and (3) Concentration or Elective areas. Courses may be substituted if needed due to local conditions, training providers, job specific roles and responsibilities, or planned career pathways.

Apprenticeship Orientation (Including Anti-Harassment Training)

Basic Safety (Construction Site Safety Orientation)

Introduction to Construction Math

Introduction to Hand Tools

Introduction to Power Tools

Introduction to Construction Drawings

Introduction to Basic Rigging

Basic Communication Skills

Basic Employability Skills

Introduction to Materials Handling

Orientation to the Trade

Heavy Equipment Safety

Identification of Heavy Equipment

Utility Tractors

Grades

Management Responsibilities
Individual Contributor
Preferred Qualifications

NCCER Heavy Equipment Operations

NCCER Highway / Heavy Construction

NCCER Rigger

NCCER Site Layout

Minimum Qualifications

0 - 9 months experience or 0 - 1500 hours as an equipment operator. Developing knowledge of the operating limitations and safe work practices associated with each piece of equipment being operated. A copy of the executed Medical Examiner's Certificate must be on file before any operation begins. Commercial driver's license is required when the equipment will be operated on public roads.  Must be at least 18 years of age.

All applicants must be able to complete pre-employment onboarding requirements (if selected) which may include any/all of the following: criminal/civil background check, drug screen, and motor vehicle records search, in compliance with any applicable laws and regulations.

Certifications

NCCER Heavy Equipment Operations

NCCER Highway / Heavy Construction

NCCER Rigger

NCCER Site Layout

Work Environment/Physical Demands
  • Lift and carry heavy items weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Stand, Kneel, Bend, Stoop, Move in and around confined and cluttered places, and uneven areas, see and hear naturally or with correction.
  • Full range of motion and flexibility consistent with requirements of the job duties.
  • Requires using hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls according to a set procedure.
  • Requires repetitive movement.
  • Climb and maintain balance on steel framework, stairs, ladders and scaffolds.
  • Work up to a 12-hour shift doing hard physical labor in varying temperature extremes and other outside conditions.
  • Typical construction site environment
  • Requires working in cramped work spaces and getting into awkward positions.
  • Requires working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32F degrees) temperatures and exposure to inclement weather such as dust, wind, snow, rain, etc.
  • Requires working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions
  • Includes exposure to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable.
  • Work around hazardous equipment.
  • This position is considered a safety sensitive position.
Competencies
Salary Plan
EQU: Equipment Operations
Job Grade
200

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Black & Veatch is committed to being an employer of choice by creating a valuable work experience that keeps our people engaged, productive, safe and healthy.

Our comprehensive benefits portfolio is a key component of this commitment and offers and array of health care benefits including but not limited to medical, dental and vision insurances along with life insurance and a robust wellness program.

To support a healthy work-life balance, we offer paid vacation and holiday time after the eligibility period has been met.

A variety of additional benefits are available to our professionals including, but not limited to, a company matched 401k plan, vendor discounts, AD&D insurance, pre-taxed accounts, voluntary legal plan, identity theft and credit monitoring services, and the B&V Credit Union. 

By valuing diverse voices and perspectives, we cultivate an authentically inclusive environment for professionals and are able to provide innovative and effective solutions for clients.

BVH, Inc., its subsidiaries and its affiliated companies, complies with all Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws and regulations. Black & Veatch does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender Identity and expression, disability, veteran status, pregnancy status or other status protected by law.

For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. 

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