Bridge and lock tenders
SOC Code: 53-6011Also known as:
Bridge Crew Member, Bridge Leverman, Bridge Opener, Bridge Operator, Bridge Saw Operator
Median Annual Salary
$58,490
-3.3% growth (2024-2034)
300
Openings/Year
3K
Current Jobs
What Bridge and lock tenders Do
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.
💰 Salary
$58,490
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-3.3%
Decline
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
300
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
2,900
Projected Employment (2034)
2,800
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Top Skills Required
Monitoring
Active Listening
Speaking
Critical Thinking
Coordination
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Control machinery to open and close canal locks and dams, railroad or highway drawbridges, or horizontally or vertically adjustable bridges.
- Direct movements of vessels in locks or bridge areas, using signals, telecommunication equipment, or loudspeakers.
- Observe position and progress of vessels to ensure best use of lock spaces or bridge opening spaces.
- Record names, types, and destinations of vessels passing through bridge openings or locks, and numbers of trains or vehicles crossing bridges.
- Observe approaching vessels to determine size and speed, and listen for whistle signals indicating desire to pass.
- Move levers to activate traffic signals, navigation lights, and alarms.
- Write and submit maintenance work requisitions.
- Log data, such as water levels and weather conditions.
- Prepare accident reports.
- Perform maintenance duties, such as sweeping, painting, and yard work to keep facilities clean and in order.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do bridge and lock tenders make?
The median annual salary for bridge and lock tenders is $58,490.
What education do bridge and lock tenders need?
Most bridge and lock tenders positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Is becoming bridge and lock tenders a good career choice?
Bridge and lock tenders is projected to see -3.3% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 300 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for bridge and lock tenders?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to bridge and lock tenders?
Bridge and lock tenders may also be known as: Bridge Crew Member, Bridge Leverman, Bridge Opener, Bridge Operator, Bridge Saw Operator, Bridge Tender, Bridgeman, Crossing Tender, Crossing Watchman, Dam Attendant, Dam Operator, Dam Repairer, Dam Tender, Draw Operator, Drawbridge Operator, Drawbridge Tender, Gate Attendant, Leverman, Lighthouse Keeper, Lock and Dam Operator.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.