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Lock Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kinder Morgan

Field Operator

Snyder, TX · On-site

Work with Field Operators and Supervision to maintain and operate, Submersible Pumps, Manifold ... Perform Lock, and Tag out of all equipment in an assigned area. * Assist in repairs and maintenance ...

Koch Foods

Grinder Operator

Fairfield, OH · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

* Primarily responsible for operating specific equipment. * Set up and operate assigned equipment ... Safety is of the utmost importance; ability to adhere to Lock Out/Tag Out procedures, while ...

World Oil

Unit Operator 1

Compton, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Hoar

Hoist Operator

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

Lock out the power to the hoist at the end of the shift. * Gather up Walkie Talkies at the end of the shift and place in charging station so they will be ready for operation the next day.

World Oil

Unit Operator 1

Compton, CA · On-site

$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 ...

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

$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

$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 ...

World Oil

Unit Operator 1

Compton, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Wood

Plant Operator ll

Louisville, KY · On-site

$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.

Beneficial Talent Source

Packing Operator

Cincinnati, OH

$15.75 - $19/hr

Operate within Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and strict safety and regulatory procedures, including Lock-out/Tag-out, Confined Space, and Wastewater protocols. * Work Area: Maintain a clean ...

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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 Jul 5, 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
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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
Field Operator

Field Operator

Kinder Morgan

Snyder, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Kinder Morgan rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 92 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 50 rated energy and utility

Job description

What We Are Looking For
What You Will Do
Essential duties and responsibilities:
  • The candidate will operate all KM100% ,SACROC, and LDMU production wells and facilities safely and comply with all regulatory agency guidelines and corporate policies.
  • Work with Field Operators and Supervision to maintain and operate, Submersible Pumps, Manifold Separators, and Tank batteries.
  • Perform Lock, and Tag out of all equipment in an assigned area.
  • Assist in repairs and maintenance issues on all production equipment.
  • Test production wells, collect production readings and interface with other Area operators.
  • Insure quality information is being recorded and distributed and entered into a data base system. "Prodnet"
  • Maintain all assigned production and rotating equipment at facilities.
  • Report any and all SAFETY Hazards in a timely manner.
  • Must be willing to work at any given time and cover vacations.
  • Must follow all company Policies and Procedures without deviation.
  • Must have a mind set for SAFETY and achieving zero incidents.
  • The candidate will also be trained in Hot Work and Confined Space permitting and will be assigned duties related to such permitting.
  • This position is for a Nights Only 7/7 schedule.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Job level commensurate with experience.

What You Need
Minimum requirements:
Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience / Specific knowledge:
  • 3 to 5 yrs. minimum experience operating in the Oil and Gas Industry.
  • EOR preferred experience." Enhanced Oil Recovery "

Competencies, skills, and abilities:
  • Operational knowledge of Centrifugal pumps, three phase separation and process flow.
  • Operational knowledge of pneumatic and electrical controls, and how they relate to the process equipment.
  • Be willing to work with pressure that range from 0-2200#.
  • Computer skills; must be proficient in Word, and Excel.
  • Must be a self-motivated individual with an open mind.

Preferred Safety Requirements
  • Previous training in Lock out Tag out process.
  • Previous training in H2S

Why Join Kinder Morgan
Kinder Morgan is a large energy infrastructure company operating in North America. Access to reliable, affordable energy is a critical component for improving lives around the world. We are committed to providing energy transportation and storage services in a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible manner for the benefit of the people, communities, and businesses we serve.
Kinder Morgan provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, gender (including gender identity and expression), sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, family status, status as an individual authorized to work in the U.S., or any other status protected by law.
For more information about Kinder Morgan, our culture, opportunities available, and to join our Talent Community, please visit our careers site at www.kindermorgan.com.

What Kinder Morgan employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Kinder Morgan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kinder Morgan is moving the fuels of today for the energy of the future. From the natural gas that heats your home to the gasoline that fuels your vehicle, our pipeline and terminal assets provide the necessary infrastructure to meet today's growing global energy demand and play a key role in the low-carbon energy transition of the future.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1997

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