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Lock Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

World Oil

Unit Operator 1

Compton, CA

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

The Unit Operator 1 understands and operates pumps, process piping, valves, gauges and process ... This position understands and carries out lock-out/tag-out procedures to safely prepare equipment ...

World Oil

Unit Operator 1

Compton, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

The Unit Operator 1 understands and operates pumps, process piping, valves, gauges and process ... This position understands and carries out lock-out/tag-out procedures to safely prepare equipment ...

Rural Route 1 Inc

Machine Operator/Lead

Livingston, WI · On-site

$20/hr

Machine Operators are responsible for safely operating, monitoring, and maintaining production ... Follow all safety guidelines, lock-out/tag-out procedures, and company policies. * Collaborate with ...

Rural Route 1 Inc

Machine Operator/Lead

Livingston, WI · On-site

$20/hr

Machine Operators are responsible for safely operating, monitoring, and maintaining production ... Follow all safety guidelines, lock-out/tag-out procedures, and company policies. * Collaborate with ...

Wood

Plant Operator ll

Louisville, KY

$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.

Steel Partners

3rd Shift Slasher Operator

Statesville, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Slasher operator is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of his/her machine at all times, following weekly TPM cleaning and audit schedule, and using the lock out tag out program. He/she will ...

NRP Jones LLC

Manufacturing Operator

Nephi, UT · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Removing cap and lock rings and reapplying molded caps to hose. * Applying final rubber cover and ... Must be familiar with, and follow, all standard operating procedures and guidelines. * Knowledge of ...

NRP Jones LLC

Manufacturing Operator

Nephi, UT · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Removing cap and lock rings and reapplying molded caps to hose. * Applying final rubber cover and ... Must be familiar with, and follow, all standard operating procedures and guidelines. * Knowledge of ...

NRP Jones LLC

Manufacturing Operator

Nephi, UT · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Removing cap and lock rings and reapplying molded caps to hose. * Applying final rubber cover and ... Must be familiar with, and follow, all standard operating procedures and guidelines. * Knowledge of ...

Celanese Corporation

Operator, Production

Enoree, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

They safely operate and troubleshoot process equipment, support lock out tag out, assist maintenance with troubleshooting, and will eventually train future operators. Operators will be expected to ...

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All JobsLock Operator Jobs

Lock Operator information

See salary details

$17

$23

$33

How much do lock operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 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.

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? States with the most job openings for Lock Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lock Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lock Operator jobs are:
Lock Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lock Operator job openings in the United States 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 $48,774 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Unit Operator 1

Unit Operator 1

World Oil

Compton, CA

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Join Our Team!!
At World Oil Recycling, we strive to be an employer of choice by recruiting, developing, and retaining a high performing and diverse workforce. As a family-owned company, our focus in work life balance fosters a healthy, safe, and productive work environment for all employees.


World Oil Recycling values its amazing workforce that has contributed to the company's success for over 80 years! Learn more about us at:https://worldoilcorp.com/about-us/.


Position Summary:


The Unit Operator 1 understands and operates pumps, process piping, valves, gauges and process
controls. This position understands and carries out lock-out/tag-out procedures to safely prepare
equipment for maintenance for its essential duties at all times.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
Monitors and maintains process throughout to acheive prescribed production goals while
maintaining appropriate levels of quality control.
Carries out lock-out/tag-out procedures to safely prepare equipment for maintenance.
Interprets lab results and makes adjustments to process controls to achieve on-spec products.
Obtains process samples, runs analyticals and makes adjustments accordingly to maintain good
process chemistry in a safe manner at all times.
Documents and records logs and reports concerning the assigned unit and associated utilities.
Measures and maintains appropriate process plant and utilities chemistry.
Isolates and drains process equipment for maintenance activities.
Fills out logs and generates routine production reports.


Other Functions:
Performs other related duties as assigned.


Supervisory Responsibilities:
This role supervises the following positions:None.


As part of the Company's employment screening process, any applicant to whom an offer of employment is made must pass a test for controlled substances, under the procedures of World Oil Drug & Alcohol policy. Employment offers are conditioned on a negative test result.


EEO Statement: It is the policy of World Oil and its subsidiaries to provide equal opportunity for all applicants and employees. The Company does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, color, religion, sex/gender, gender identity/gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, military/veteran status, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetic information, reproductive health decision making, or any other status protected by state or federal law.


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