Lock and Dam Operator

Job Title

Job Description

Exercise authority over use of lock through issuance of instructions to craft operators.

Serve as lead man of two-man crew responsible for making lockages, direct lower graded employees in the operation of lock and dam equipment, explain work assignments, new procedures, and safe operation methods to other lockmen.

Conduct a thorough shift turnover with the oncoming shift, and lock vessels through a lock and dam site and perform overall project security.

Perform and/or direct the repair of equipment and perform maintenance of equipment at a Lock and Dam Facility along with performing operational or functional checks on machinery to avoid equipment breakdowns.

Perform maintenance of lock and dam features by following written documentation or oral instructions.

Operate tow haulage unit to move barges in and out of the lock chamber; control valves controlling flow of water for emptying and filling operations; controls to raise or lower dam gates in accordance with specific instructions and/or own judgment.

Respond appropriately to accidents to immediately assist and make safe the situation, and perform proper notifications once an accident occurs, and observe weather (and ice) conditions and conditions of craft desiring entry.

Enforce safety regulations and methods to avoid hazards to personnel, property, or vessels, and complete accident and incident reports within established timeframes.

Perform tasks and instruct others on safe lock and dam operating procedures, ensure safety equipment and clothing (personal protective equipment) is worn properly to ensure proper protection, and recognize safety hazards in the working environment.

Read, monitor, and record river gauge readings and determine that water level in the lock chamber is proper for gate operation.

Obtain and/or direct others to obtain and record required statistical data for each lockage and enter into Lock Performance Monitoring System (LPMS) system.

Department of the Army