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Lock Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ace Lock

Lock Technician

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

About Ace Lock, Inc. Driven by a focus on total customer satisfaction, Ace Lock, Inc. has been ... Operating out of our flagship retail and service center on Baum Boulevard, we serve commercial ...

CrossCountry Mortgage

Lock Desk Analyst

... operating over 700 branches and servicing loans across all 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico. Our ... The Lock Desk Analyst's primary responsibility is to support the Lock Desk by processing rate lock ...

Crosscountrymortgage

Lock Desk Analyst

... operating over 700 branches and servicing loans across all 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico. Our ... The Lock Desk Analyst's primary responsibility is to support the Lock Desk by processing rate lock ...

Crosscountrymortgage

Lock Desk Analyst

Cleveland, OH

... operating over 700 branches and servicing loans across all 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico. Our ... The Lock Desk Analyst's primary responsibility is to support the Lock Desk by processing rate lock ...

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Lock Operator information

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$17

$23

$33

How much do lock operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for lock operator in the United States is $23.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $26.20 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.

More about Lock Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Lock Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Lock Operator job openings:

What states have the most Lock Operator jobs?

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

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Lock Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lock Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,774 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Lock and Dam Operator

US Department of the Army

Pineville, LA

$23.94/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

United States Army rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 492 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: Serves as a Lock and Dam Operator at a Corps of Engineers Navigation Facility within the Inland Marine Transportation System. You will be responsible for site installation operations that operate lock and dam gates, control valves, and associated equipment.
Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element) - WY-07: Ability to do the work of a(n) Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision. To meet the screen out element, applicants should document experience and/or show the ability to perform common lock and dam duties such as: performing operations to electrically or hydraulically controlled equipment, maintenance, and repair activities from skills acquired from working on navigation locks, facilities, ground, or equipment.- Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element) - WY-09: Ability to do the work of a(n) Lock and Dam Operator without more than normal supervision. To meet the screen out element, applicants should document experience and/or show the ability to perform some common lock operations tasks such as: operating electrically or hydraulically controlled lock and dam equipment; making minor repairs to lock and dam equipment; apply locking procedures, policies, and laws regarding traffic right-of-way, sequence of operations, and safe passage of hazardous commodities and damaged crafts; and complying with governing safety practices and procedures - Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
  • PHYSICAL EFFORT: Eye and hand coordination for operating various controls and handling lines while observing traffic and personnel, during crane lifting operations, lifting dam gates, etc. There is standing, stooping, bending, occasional lifting in excess of 50 pounds, stretching, working in cramped positions and spaces, handling or maneuvering bulky items or equipment, and general continuous moderate to arduous physical effort required.
  • WORKING CONDITIONS: Preponderance of work is performed outside subject to extremes of temperature and weather. There is exposure to injuries associated with working in restricted areas, occasionally cramped and/or uncomfortably hot or cold areas, from falling objects, from working with electrical power tools and wiring or other equipment, from working with normal manual tools and from falls while working on lock walls, dam service bridge, etc. While possibility of drowning exists as result of falls while working around water, hazard is practically eliminated through observance of safety procedures and use of safety equipment. During maintenance operations, is occasionally exposed to unpleasant fumes, dust, etc.
Note: Management may make selection at WY-07 or WY-09 grade level.
Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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