Locksmith

What does a lock operator do? – Tasks and work environment

A lock operator is responsible for monitoring and operating locks on waterways, facilitating safe passage for ships and boats between water levels. Tasks include controlling mechanical equipment, communicating with vessel crews, and performing basic maintenance and inspections of the lock system. The work is often outdoors and may involve shift work during day and night, especially during peak traffic periods. The work environment is characterized by responsibility for safety of personnel and passing vessels, requiring precision and good ability to handle unexpected situations.

Salary development over time

The profession of lock operator has shown some variations in salary development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,500 SEK per month. In 2023, the average salary increased to 37 200, which corresponds to an increase of just over 4.8%. Subsequently, the salary has adjusted slightly downward, and in 2024, the average salary is 36 100. This decline represents a decrease of about 3% compared to the previous year. The variation may be due to changes in demand for the profession, retirements, local employment conditions, and the fact that salary data is influenced by the smaller population of professionals in the field. Overall, a long-term stable salary level is observed relative to similar professions within transport and infrastructure.

Lock operator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: Data missing, but estimated around 32,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary: Data missing, but estimated around 39,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 217 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Only salary for men (36 100 SEK/month), no data for women
• Regional differences: Specific regional salary differences are not available, but variations may occur depending on employer and geography

Education and qualifications

To work as a lock operator, no specific university degree is required, but high school education with a focus on technology or transport is common. Practical experience from similar tasks, such as machinery handling or work in ports and maritime sectors, is advantageous. Some employers offer internal training or introductory programs for new employees. Good language skills and technical understanding are important to meet the profession's requirements.

• High school education: Focus on technology, transport, or electrical engineering is recommended
• Internal training: Often requires introductory programs and safety training
• Practical experience: Background in machinery handling or maritime work is advantageous
• Certificates: Safety training and sometimes forklift or machinery operator licenses
• Pre-requisites: Good physical condition, technical interest, and teamwork skills

Common benefits and compensations

Lock operators are often offered additional pay for unsocial hours, especially during evenings, weekends, and nights. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for further training via the employer. Some workplaces also offer extra vacation weeks or pension contributions beyond collective agreements.

Challenges and competition

The number of positions for lock operators is limited, which can make competition for available jobs high. A challenge in the profession is that tasks can vary greatly depending on season and traffic volume, requiring high flexibility to adapt to different work environments. Since work is often outdoors, working conditions are affected by weather and seasons. Additionally, technological changes and automation may alter the profession's content and requirements over time. The lack of formal education can sometimes make it difficult to compete for the most attractive positions, so practical experience and specialized skills are valuable advantages.

Tips for those who want to become lock operators

To succeed as a lock operator, it is good to have a technical interest and be precise, as safety during lockage requires constant attention and accuracy. Being service-minded and communicative facilitates cooperation with colleagues and vessel crews, especially in stressful situations. Flexibility is an important trait, as tasks and working hours can vary greatly between seasons and workplaces. Patience is also crucial, as the work can sometimes involve long waiting times or monotonous tasks. For those looking to develop within the profession, it is wise to take advantage of internal training and be open to learning new technical systems. Finally, initiative and sense of responsibility are appreciated, especially when it comes to making quick decisions during unexpected events.

Key facts about lock operators

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Education level: High school, often technical/transport focus
• Work form: Shift work, often outdoors
• Job openings in the profession: 379 positions (crane operators etc.)
• Gender differences: Only salary data for men available

Career paths and future prospects

After some years of experience as a lock operator, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as foreman or operations manager at larger facilities. Some choose to move on to other professions within maritime work, port operations, or technical maintenance. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's job forecasts, no specific assessment is made for lock operators, but within the crane operator group etc., there are 379 available jobs. The future outlook is considered stable, although the number of positions is limited and depends on investments in infrastructure and waterway maintenance. Automation and new technology may eventually change the profession and create a need for further training.

Frequently asked questions about lock operators

• What is the average salary of a lock operator?
  - A lock operator has an average salary of 36 100 SEK/month.
• What does the hourly wage look like for lock operators?
  - The hourly wage is approximately 217 SEK based on 166 working hours per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Only salary data for men is available (36 100 SEK/month); specific information about women is missing.
• What education is required to become a lock operator?
  - High school education with a focus on technology or transport is recommended, along with internal training provided by the employer.
• What is the work environment like?
  - Work is often outdoors, in shifts, and involves responsibility for safety during vessel lockage.
• Are there many job openings for lock operators?
  - Within the job group of crane operators etc., there are 379 available positions, but the number of dedicated lock operator jobs is limited.
• What benefits are common?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, wellness allowances, and sometimes extra vacation days.