Bridge / Lock Tender

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.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Bridge Operator; Bridge Tender; Lock Tender

Tasks

• 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.

Knowledge

• Public Safety and Security
• English Language

Skills

• Monitoring
• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking

Abilities

• Information Ordering
• Near Vision
• Selective Attention
• Control Precision
• Far Vision
• Auditory Attention
• Oral Comprehension
• Oral Expression
• Problem Sensitivity
• Perceptual Speed
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Reaction Time
• Hearing Sensitivity
• Speech Recognition
• Speech Clarity