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”

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

Related Technology & Tools

Surveillance binoculars
Intrusion alarms
Mobile radios
X ray scanners
Grease dispensing guns
Spot lights
Lawn mowers
Gas powered generators
Gas detectors
Cable lines
Traffic directional cones
Desktop computers
Signal flags
Motor vehicles
Very high frequency VHF radiotelephones
Weather monitoring instruments
Warning horns
Adjustable wrenches
Warning sirens
Television monitors
Hand trucks
Balance weights
Signal bells
Navigation lights
Safety-toe boots
Laser facsimile machines
Span lights
Gas powered snow blowers
Radar systems
Wire cutting tools
Loudspeaker warning system
Step ladders
Bitts
Wire ropes
Safety gloves
Signal flares
Electric drawbridges
Bridge traffic signals
Life jackets
Traffic gates
Snow plows
Smoke detectors
Hearing protectors
Putty knives
Hard hats
Megaphones
Fall protection equipment
Protective glasses
Closed circuit television CCTV monitoring systems
Sump pumps

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