Will “Lock Operator” be Replaced By Robots? 🤔

97% Chance of Automation

“Lock 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 Operator”

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

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