Will “Lock and Dam Operator” be Replaced By Robots? 🤔

97% Chance of Automation

“Lock and Dam Operator” will almost certainly be replaced by robots.

This job is ranked #644 out of #702. A higher ranking (i.e., a lower number) means the job is less likely to be replaced.

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Job Description

Operate and tend bridges, canal locks, and lighthouses to permit marine passage on inland waterways, near shores, and at danger points in waterway passages. May supervise such operations. Includes drawbridge operators, lock operators, and slip bridge operators.

Job Details

The SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) code is 53-6011.00
The Mean Annual Wage in the U.S. is $ 46,680.00
The Mean Hourly Wage is $ 22.00
Currently, there are 3,510 people on this job

☝️ Information based on the reference occupation “Bridge and Lock Tenders”.

Also Known As…

Tasks for “Lock and Dam Operator”

Stop automobile and pedestrian traffic on bridges, and lower automobile gates prior to moving bridges.
Operate lighthouses to assist marine passage near shores and dangerous waters.
Maintain and guard stations in bridges to check waterways for boat traffic.
Log data such as water levels and weather conditions.
Prepare accident reports.
Inspect canal and bridge equipment, and areas such as roadbeds for damage or defects, reporting problems to supervisors as necessary.
Control machinery to open and close canal locks and dams, railroad or highway drawbridges, or horizontally or vertically adjustable bridges.
Move levers to activate traffic signals, navigation lights, and alarms.
Perform maintenance duties such as sweeping, painting, and yard work to keep facilities clean and in order.
Observe position and progress of vessels to ensure best utilization of lock spaces or bridge opening spaces.
Turn valves to increase or decrease water levels in locks.
Attach ropes or cable lines to bitts on lock decks or wharfs to secure vessels.
Record names, types, and destinations of vessels passing through bridge openings or locks, and numbers of trains or vehicles crossing bridges.
Add and remove balance weights to bridge mechanisms as necessary.
Check that bridges are clear of vehicles and pedestrians prior to opening.
Observe approaching vessels to determine size and speed, and listen for whistle signals indicating desire to pass.
Raise drawbridges and observe passage of water traffic, then lower drawbridges and raise automobile gates.
Direct movements of vessels in locks or bridge areas, using signals, telecommunication equipment, or loudspeakers.
Write and submit maintenance work requisitions.
Clean and lubricate equipment, and make minor repairs and adjustments.

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