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Bridge Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Bridge Tender

Venice, FL · On-site

$15/hr

Includes drawbridge operators, lock tenders and operators, and slip bridge operators. Success Criteria: * Follow all company procedures, policies, and rules. * Provide safe, courteous openings for ...

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Bridge Carpenters

Lakeland, FL · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Bridge Carpenter Now Hiring: Experienced Bridge Carpenters Full-Time | Competitive Pay | Immediate ... Work alongside crane operators, ironworkers, laborers, and concrete crews. * Maintain a clean ...

... MEWP) Operator Certification for scissor lifts, manlifts, under bridge inspection vehicles (UBIV) and vehicle-mounted bucket trucks and bucket vans Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree

... Operator Certification for scissor lifts, manlifts, under bridge inspection vehicles (UBIV) and vehicle-mounted bucket trucks and bucket van Qualifications Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree

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Bridge Operator information

See Florida salary details

$22.4K

$37.5K

$51.2K

How much do bridge operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge operator in Florida is $37,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,400.00 and $42,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are bridge operators?

Bridge operators are professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring the operation of movable bridges, such as drawbridges or swing bridges. Their main duties include raising and lowering the bridge to allow the safe passage of boats or ships, ensuring the safety of motorists and pedestrians, and maintaining clear communication with vessel operators and other relevant parties. They also perform routine inspections and minor maintenance on bridge mechanisms to ensure smooth operation. This role is crucial for both transportation efficiency and public safety in areas where waterways intersect with roadways or railways.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Bridge operators can earn around $3,000 or more per month, especially with experience and certifications, working in environments that require technical skills and shift work. Other jobs that often pay this amount without a degree include commercial truck drivers, HVAC technicians, and certain skilled trades, which typically require vocational training or apprenticeships. These roles focus on practical skills and on-the-job training rather than formal college degrees.

What is the difference between Bridge Operator vs Lock Operator?

AspectBridge OperatorLock Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a state license or certification, maritime knowledgeOften requires a state license or certification, navigation skills
Work EnvironmentOperate drawbridges, movable bridges over waterwaysOperate locks to raise and lower boats in canal systems
Industry UsageMaritime, transportation, infrastructureMaritime, transportation, canal systems

Both Bridge Operators and Lock Operators work in waterway transportation, requiring similar certifications and working in maritime environments. The main difference lies in their specific functions: Bridge Operators control movable bridges, while Lock Operators manage water levels in locks. Both roles are essential for safe and efficient waterway navigation.

What does a bridge operator do?

A bridge operator is responsible for operating and maintaining drawbridges or lift bridges to allow the safe passage of ships and vehicles. They control the opening and closing of the bridge, monitor safety systems, and communicate with vessel crews and traffic control. The role often requires knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems and adherence to safety protocols.

How much does a drawbridge operator make a year?

A bridge operator, including those who operate drawbridges, typically earns an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Many positions require certification and working in shifts, including nights and weekends.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bridge Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bridge Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with bridge control systems, radio communication equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong situational awareness, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication help operators respond effectively to emergencies and coordinate with vessel crews. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of moveable bridges, protecting both river and road traffic.

What are some common challenges faced by bridge operators during their shifts?

Bridge operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected mechanical issues, coordinating with marine and vehicular traffic, and responding to emergency situations like severe weather or accidents. Effective communication and quick decision-making are essential to maintain safety and minimize disruptions. Operators also need to stay vigilant during long or overnight shifts to ensure the bridge is operated according to strict safety protocols.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Bridge operators typically do not earn $4,000 a week; high-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include specialized trades such as commercial pilots, certain sales roles, or skilled construction managers. These positions usually require experience, certifications, or technical skills rather than formal college degrees.
What job categories do people searching Bridge Operator jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Bridge Operator jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Bridge Operator jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Bridge Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Bridge Operator jobs in FL? For Bridge Operator jobs in FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Bridge Tender

$15/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Velociti Services rating

4.5

Company rating: 4.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

203rd of 210 rated facilities management


Job description

Bridge Tenders at Velociti Services serve to 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 tenders and operators, and slip bridge operators.
Success Criteria:
  • Follow all company procedures, policies, and rules.
  • Provide safe, courteous openings for marine traffic.
  • Provide a safe passage for vehicle traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians.
  • Follow all safety protocols.
  • Inform the supervisor immediately of all incidents, malfunctions, and accidents.
  • Ensure the safety of maintenance personnel.

Critical Areas of Collaboration and Influence:
  • A solid commitment to the guest experience.
  • Always remember safety first.
  • Build respectful relationships with all teammates and quests.
  • The ability to read and comprehend FDOT and U.S. Coast Guard manuals, rules, regulations, and procedures.
  • The ability to keep logs and records by FDOT procedures in correct, legible English.
  • The ability to effectively communicate in English on the VHF marine radio.
  • Maintain and guard stations in bridges to check waterways for boat traffic
  • Write and submit maintenance work requisitions
  • Check that bridges are clear of vehicles and pedestrians prior to opening.
  • Stop automobile and pedestrian traffic on bridges, and lower automobile gates prior to moving bridges
  • Raise drawbridges and observe passage of water traffic, then lower drawbridges and raise automobile gates

Ideal Candidate Experience:
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate
  • Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality
  • High School diploma/GED
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Verbal comprehension (Understand oral and written communications)
  • Communication skills (provide clear instructions/directions)
  • Reasoning skills (problem solving and troubleshooting skills)
  • Attention to detail
  • Passion for customer service
  • A positive attitude
  • Accountability and dependability in all that you do
  • Ability to communicate effectively with teammates
  • A strong commitment to company service values
  • Maintain neat accurate logs
  • Maintain a clean and orderly workspace

Physical Requirements:
Applicants for this role must be able to:
  • Meet and comply with the weight limitation safety rating and recommendations for any equipment associated with performing their duties, including the 300 lb. safety rating for ladders (both portable and affixed) and fall arrest equipment
  • Medium work, depending on location, can lift up to 50 pounds
  • Stoop / bend / kneel / crouch / balance / climb on an occasional basis
  • Demonstrate auditory and visual acuity / tracking / inspection

Benefits:
Velociti Services offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and well-being of our team members:
Company-Provided Benefits (Full-Time, 30+ Hours per Week)
  • Basic Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance

Voluntary Benefits:
  • Medical and Dental Insurance
  • Additional Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Hospital Indemnity, Accident, and Critical Illness Insurance

Retirement:
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan available for all team members

Velociti provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Anticipated Job Post End
6/27/2026

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