lock keepers

Waterway gate operators

Lock keepers are workers who operate canal or river locks—the gated chambers that raise or lower boats between different water levels.

They control the sluices and gates, manage boat traffic, and maintain the lock mechanism.

The role has become largely historical as many waterways have automated their locks: The lock keeper waved us through.

Related

aqueduct · windlass · weir · towline · boat traffic · inland waterways · canal system · floodgate · docking station · water management · water level · rise and fall · irrigation system · harbor master · rudder · keel · barge · drainage basin

Opposites
waterway control role

lock keeperslocksmiths

Security hardware specialists

canal system users vs. operators

lock keepersboaters

Stiff straw hats

bargemen

Family

lock, keeper, locks, keepers, locked, locking, locker, lockers, locksmith

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Rated G