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Lock Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

CraneWorks, Inc

CRANE OPERATOR TIER 1

La Vergne, TN · On-site

Follows correct lock-out and tag procedures * Operates crane equipment to hoist materials and ... The operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. Sitting for an ...

Wacker Chemie AG

Chemical Operator - EG

Charleston, TN · On-site

$16 - $18.25/hr

The Chemical Operator will use computers and process control systems as part of the distributed ... Perform Lock out / Tag out in accordance with site procedure * Demonstrated knowledge and safe ...

HEXPOL

Production Operator

Huntingdon, TN

$19/hr

Lock-out/Tag-out procedures must be adhered to when equipment is down for repair or cleaning ... Keep equipment in safe operating condition, report problems to Maintenance department.

HEXPOL

Production Operator

Huntingdon, TN

$19/hr

Lock-out/Tag-out procedures must be adhered to when equipment is down for repair or cleaning ... Keep equipment in safe operating condition, report problems to Maintenance department.

HEXPOL

Production Operator

Huntingdon, TN · On-site

$19/hr

Lock-out/Tag-out procedures must be adhered to when equipment is down for repair or cleaning ... Keep equipment in safe operating condition, report problems to Maintenance department.

HEXPOL

Production Operator

Dyersburg, TN

$21/hr

Lock-out/Tag-out procedures must be adhered to when equipment is down for repair or cleaning ... Keep equipment in safe operating condition, report problems to Maintenance department.

HEXPOL

Production Operator

Dyersburg, TN

$21/hr

Lock-out/Tag-out procedures must be adhered to when equipment is down for repair or cleaning ... Keep equipment in safe operating condition, report problems to Maintenance department.

HEXPOL

Production Operator

Dyersburg, TN · On-site

$21/hr

Lock-out/Tag-out procedures must be adhered to when equipment is down for repair or cleaning ... Keep equipment in safe operating condition, report problems to Maintenance department.

pca

Machine Operator Helper, 3rd Shift

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$21.12/hr

Follow all company safety rules and lock-out tag-out procedures. Maintain shop and shop equipment per 5S Standards. Other duties as assigned. May be required to stack parts up to 30 lbs.for a period ...

pca

Machine Operator Helper, 1st Shift

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$21.12/hr

Follow all company safety rules and lock-out tag-out procedures. Maintain shop and shop equipment per 5S Standards. Other duties as assigned. May be required to stack parts up to 30 lbs.for a period ...

Westlake

Barcode Operator - 2nd Shift

Brownsville, TN

$13.50 - $16.25/hr

Westlake Pipe & Fittings is an industry leader in product development with Certa-Lok spline-lock ... The primary responsibility of the Barcode Operator is to safely and efficiently perform top-quality ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsLock Operator JobsLock Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Lock Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$16

$21

$30

How much do lock operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for lock operator in Tennessee is $21.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $23.80 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 Tennessee? For Lock Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lock Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Lock Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
Lock Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lock Operator job openings in Tennessee 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 $44,268 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
CRANE OPERATOR TIER 1

CRANE OPERATOR TIER 1

CraneWorks, Inc

La Vergne, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description:

CraneWorks is seeking a motivated and dependable Crane Operator. The Crane Operator should be able to operate various types of cranes efficiently. The Operator should take complete charge of all safety and clean and maintain hoisting mechanisms. An operator must be able to maintain a standard of accuracy, be able to work in extreme weather conditions, and operate the crane according to verbal, written, and signal instruction.


Job Type: Full-time

Schedule:

Monday to Friday, overtime and weekends as needed.

Requirements:

Qualifications & Requirements

  • CDL Class A license
  • Must possess NCCCO or equivalent crane operator certification.
  • Minimum of 2 years industry experience
  • Knowledge of OSHA Regulations, and ANSI Standards in crane operations
  • Proficient in oral and written communication skills
  • Pass drug test, background, and medical check
  • Daily and monthly equipment inspections
  • Duties & Responsibilities
  • Responsible for operation of crane used in heavy lifting and transport
  • Reports to Branch Manager, directly supervises Oiler, Assist Team Leader, and Signal Persons
  • Responsible for personal safety and safety of co-workers
  • Shows commitment to safety culture through personal behavior and willingness to influence others
  • Responsible for slings, cables, straps, and the crane prior to lifting operations
  • Perform preventative maintenance as required to ensure safe and continual service of crane
  • Supervise oiling of the crane
  • Responsible for own and Rigger’s compliance with company policy, safety guidelines, and procedures that pertain to the crane operator’s job
  • Remains in continual voice (radio), hand, and/or communication with rigger while operating the crane
  • Responsible for creating an environment fostering open communications concerning safety issues
  • Participates in safety meetings and other rigger safety programs
  • Assures that all lifts are within load limits of equipment and correctly rigged
  • Assures that lifting gear is inspected prior to use
  • Follows correct lock-out and tag procedures
  • Operates crane equipment to hoist materials and equipment in a safe and efficient manner
  • Performs tasks assigned by rigger during lifting procedures

Physical Requirements:

The job requires the employee to climb, stand, and lift and/or move a minimum of 50 pounds. The operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. Sitting for an extended amount of time to perform key duties. Employee must be able to stand for extended periods of time, and to stoop, bend, and crouch. Maintain constant alertness to the multiple concurrent activities of the construction site, including the activities of other employees and contractors, the operation of stationary equipment, and the movement of mobile equipment. Frequently walk on uneven surfaces, including natural ground in varying weather conditions. Capable of safely and productively operating a man-lift. Must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely.


Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions.


About CraneWorks

Established in 1987 by David and Steve Upton, CraneWorks has grown into one of the region's top crane and equipment rental services in the Southeast. CraneWorks is recognized as one of the top 50 crane companies on the American Crane and Transport ACT100 Index of North America. Learn more about CraneWorks at www.craneworks.com.



Equal Opportunity Employer


Benefits

CraneWorks offers a generous benefits package including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan with company match

PTO with carryover, usable in hourly increments

Life insurance and long-term disability