Dynamic distributed work allocation is disclosed. For example, a first work server (WS) stores a first plurality of tasks and a second WS stores a second plurality of tasks. A work client (WC) is configured to send a first lock request (LR) with a first priority value (PV) to the first WS and a second LR with a second PV to the second WS. The WC receives a first lock notice (LN) and a first task from the first WS, and a second LN and a second task from the second WS. Prior to a first lock duration (LD) expiring and completing processing of the first task, the WC sends a third LR to the first WS that extends the first LD. After completing the second task, the WC sends a lock release notice and a fourth LR to the second WS.