Canal Structure Operator

Operates any of a variety of locks following detailed standing and special procedures.

• Observes or is notified of approaching float, energizes control panels to either fill or empty the lock chamber, and when water level is equalized, energizes control panel by manipulating one or a series of switches and levers to open lock entry gates and turns on traffic control light to signal vessel to enter lock chamber.

• Observes passage of vessel into lock chamber, advises crew of proper mooring procedure, and logs name or registry number of vessel, time of passage and any unusual occurrence.

• Closes lock gate and turns on traffic light to stop any other approaching vessels.

• Energizes control panel to either fill or empty the lock, keeping vessel under observation in the event of a sudden emergency which might require stopping or reversing the water level equalization process.

• Observes the water level and when equalized on both sides of lock gates, opens lock gate and when vessel has exited, closes exit lock gates and valves and repeats procedure for next vessel awaiting passage.

• If operator is roving between structures, all waiting vessels are passed through the lock and the operator proceeds by automobile to the next structure which may be several miles away.

• In the event of a failure or breakdown of the equipment, notifies the supervisor giving the nature and extent of the problem.

Operates a guard gate by energizing a control panel to raise or lower the gate as needed and to operate valves, when the gate is down, to regulate water flow to the locks below the guard gate.

Operates a movable bridge by energizing a control panel to raise or lower the bridge, as needed, and to control vehicular traffic over the bridge.

Performs regular preventative maintenance tasks.

Inspects AC and DC motors and generators, lubricates, cleans parts and replaces brushes.

Inspects panel boards, lubricates, cleans, and replaces indicator lights, fuses and bulbs.

Inspects, cleans and lubricates gear trains and racks.

Maintains lubricating and hydraulic fluid levels and replaces filters.

Inspects pumps, lubricates and reports any malfunctions.

Applies preservative to wooden quoins and miters which serve to seal lock gates.

Inspects and lubricates chains and cables.

Inspects arc lights, navigation, pilot and traffic signals for proper functioning and as necessary replaces light bulbs and fuses.

During the winter months when the canal system is closed performs a variety of maintenance activities.

Assists in the removal and replacement of electrical motors which includes disassembly, inspection of parts for wear or defect, cleaning, lubricating, repairing or replacing parts, painting and reassembly.

Assists in the removal, repair, reassembly and replacement of panel boards, brake assemblies, switches, overload relays, magnetic starters, rheostats, and circuit breakers.

During major structure overhauls performs a variety of semiskilled tasks characteristic of a maintenance assistant in servicing pumps, maintaining cofferdams and assisting in the installation of temporary wiring.

Performs miscellaneous maintenance work.

Paints lockhouse interior and exterior.

Removes snow and ice from lock chamber walls, lock gates and walkways.

Performs routine groundskeeping and building maintenance such as trimming lawns and shrubs, removing debris, and cleaning floors, windows and plumbing facilities.

In accordance with specific procedures and in a standard format records daily weather, wind direction, air temperature, water level readings, a log of vessels passing through the lock and any unusual occurrences taking place.

The New York State Canal Corporation offers its employees a generous and comprehensive benefits plan, which includes:

Holiday & Paid Time Off

• Nine (9) paid holidays annually
• Four (4) paid floating holidays annually
• Earn up to thirteen (13) days of paid vacation leave annually
• Earn five (5) days of paid personal leave annually
• Earn up to thirteen (13) days of paid sick leave annually

Health Benefits

• Participation in the New York State Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP) and access to their variety of affordable health insurance options
• Pre-Tax contribution program
• Dental and Vision benefits at no additional cost
• Opt-Out incentive program
• Flex Spending Account (FSA)

Additional Benefits

• CSEA representation and access to their benefits
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Professional development and promotional opportunities
• Qualified employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• New York State Employees’ Retirement System (ERS) Membership
• NYS Deferred Compensation
• And many more…

The New York State Canal Corporation (Canals), a subsidiary of the New York Power Authority, is responsible for overseeing and maintaining the 524-mile waterway for boating, recreation, tourism and agriculture. The New York State Canal System includes the Erie, Champlain, Oswego and Cayuga-Seneca canals, linking the Hudson River with the Great Lakes, the Finger Lakes and Lake Champlain. The 200-year-old NYS Canal System extends over 524 miles and plays important roles in New York’s economic development, tourism industry and environmental stewardship.

For more information on The New York State Canal Corporation’s mission, values and opportunities, please visit https://www.canals.ny.gov/