Launch Your Career: Lock and Dam Operator with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Do you enjoy working outdoors and operating large-scale machinery? If you are looking for a career that combines technical aptitude with a meaningful impact on national infrastructure, the role of a Lock and Dam Operator with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) may be your perfect match. Located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, this position is essential to the safe transit of vessels on our nation's waterways.

Job Responsibilities

As a Lock and Dam Operator, you will serve as the primary authority during your shift. Your duties will include:

Traffic Management: Coordinating with tow boat captains and issuing instructions to ensure safe entry and exit.
Equipment Control: Operating electrical and hydraulic systems to manipulate lock gates and valves.
Maintenance: Performing functional checks and minor repairs to ensure equipment reliability.
Safety Surveillance: Monitoring weather conditions and vessel status to prevent accidents.

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, you must demonstrate the ability to perform the work without more than normal supervision. Key requirements include:

Submission of a resume (strictly 2 pages or less).
Proof of valid, job-related licenses or certifications.
Successful completion of a drug test.
Ability to work in physically demanding environments.

Comparison of Responsibilities

Feature	Lock and Dam Operator Task	Impact
Equipment	Hydraulic/Electric gate control	Ensures safe transit
Safety	Hazard avoidance/Procedure oversight	Prevents accidents
Maintenance	Minor repairs to machinery	Minimizes downtime

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $32.90 to $38.41. Beyond the paycheck, employees benefit from the stability of a federal career, including comprehensive health and retirement options.

Application Tips

Respect the Limit: If your resume exceeds two pages, it will be automatically removed from consideration. Keep it concise.
Be Specific: List your hours worked per week for every position listed on your resume.
Include Documentation: Don't forget your professional licenses; missing documentation is the #1 reason for an ineligible rating.

Serving as a Lock and Dam Operator is more than just a job; it is a vital role in maintaining the flow of commerce and protecting our waters. If you have the skills to manage complex equipment and the discipline to ensure safety, apply today.

Why This Lock And Dam Operator Job Matters

Take command of the waterways! Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a Lock and Dam Operator and play a pivotal role in maintaining the safe and efficient passage of maritime traffic.

Lock And Dam Operator Job Overview

The St. Paul District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a dedicated professional for a full-time, permanent position as a Lock and Dam Operator. In this role, you will be the frontline authority on the water, managing lock operations, ensuring the safety of vessel traffic, and maintaining critical infrastructure. If you thrive in an active, hands-on environment and are committed to public service, this is a unique opportunity to contribute to the nation’s engineering excellence.

Requirements for Lock And Dam Operator

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Submit a resume not exceeding two pages.
Provide proof of required job-related licenses or certifications.
Complete a pre-employment drug screening.
Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Selective Service registration statement.
Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
Ability to lift in excess of 50 pounds.
Successful completion of a background investigation.

Preferred Qualifications for Lock And Dam Operator

Experience in operating electrically or hydraulically controlled lock and dam equipment.
Proven track record in performing minor equipment repairs.
Knowledge of maritime traffic laws, right-of-way regulations, and safety procedures.
Strong ability to follow technical instructions and provide guidance to vessel captains.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay.
✓Career growth opportunities within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
✓Participation in federal retirement programs.
✓Support for professional development.

💡 How to Apply Lock And Dam Operator Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Lock And Dam Operator Job

Log in or create an account at USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
Upload all required supporting documents, including licenses.
Verify that your application is complete and submit before the closing date.
Monitor your application status via your USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less; longer resumes will be excluded.
Ensure your resume includes clear start/end dates (month/year) and average hours worked per week for each role.
Avoid using technical jargon or acronyms that may be unfamiliar to HR staff.
Double-check that all required licenses are attached before hitting submit.
Submit early to allow time for the document virus scan process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of a Lock and Dam Operator?

Operators manage the movement of watercraft through locks by controlling gate systems, issuing instructions to captains, ensuring safe clearance, and performing preventative maintenance on equipment.

Is travel required for this position?

This position involves minimal travel, as the primary work occurs on-site at the assigned lock and dam facility.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No, your resume must be two pages or less. Applications with resumes exceeding this limit will not be considered.

What is the work environment like?

You will work primarily outdoors, subject to temperature extremes and varying weather conditions. It is a physically active role.

Is there promotion potential?

Currently, this position does not have defined promotion potential, but it offers a stable and essential role within the district.

Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the world's premier engineering and construction management agencies. We pride ourselves on delivering innovative solutions to solve the nation’s toughest challenges, from water resource management to flood protection and national security support. When you join USACE, you are not just taking a job—you are joining a community dedicated to serving the public interest.