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Bridge Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

General Laborer

Ottumwa, IA ยท On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

We are looking for Laborers to perform general duties involved in the construction of bridge and/or culvert projects. Laborers assist the Superintendent, Carpenter Foreman, Crane Operators ...

General Laborer

Centerville, IA ยท On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

We are looking for Laborers to perform general duties involved in the construction of bridge and/or culvert projects. Laborers assist the Superintendent, Carpenter Foreman, Crane Operators ...

General Laborer

Washington, IA ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

We are looking for Laborers to perform general duties involved in the construction of bridge and/or culvert projects. Laborers assist the Superintendent, Carpenter Foreman, Crane Operators ...

Forklift Operator

Humboldt, IA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

As a forklift operator with Rinker Materials, you will contribute to one of the nation's largest manufacturers of reinforced concrete pipe, box, bridge, and other related infrastructure products for ...

Forklift Operator

Humboldt, IA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

As a forklift operator with Rinker Materials, you will contribute to one of the nation's largest manufacturers of reinforced concrete pipe, box, bridge, and other related infrastructure products for ...

Forklift Operator

Humboldt, IA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

As a forklift operator with Rinker Materials, you will contribute to one of the nation's largest manufacturers of reinforced concrete pipe, box, bridge, and other related infrastructure products for ...

Forklift Operator

Humboldt, IA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

As a forklift operator with Rinker Materials, you will contribute to one of the nation's largest manufacturers of reinforced concrete pipe, box, bridge, and other related infrastructure products for ...

Equipment Operator

Boone, IA ยท On-site

$29.08/hr

Performing various manual labor tasks involved in road, bridge and culvert maintenance, repair, and ... in operating light or medium equipment such as single axle dump truck. 2. Must possess a valid ...

Showing results 21-40

Bridge Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$28.2K

$47.1K

$64.3K

How much do bridge operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge operator in Iowa is $47,133.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,400.00 and $53,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bridge operator?

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 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 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.

How much do bridge operators make?

Bridge operators in Louisiana typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires certification and knowledge of operating mechanical and electronic systems.

What are popular job titles related to Bridge Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Bridge Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bridge Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Bridge Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Bridge Operator jobs in IA?

For Bridge Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Bridge Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,133 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Structural Engineer - Bridge

Shive Hattery Group, Inc.

Iowa City, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description:



Shive-Hattery is a premier architecture and engineering consulting firm headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. In total, the firm has 17 offices across the US. Shive-Hattery was founded in 1895 and has earned and maintained a strong reputation for excellence in client focus, quality service and communication. The firm prides itself on its One Firm, full-service offering; placing the best people with their clients, no matter the project location.


Join Shive-Hattery’s Iowa City, IA Transportation Team as a Bridge Engineer and advance your career while leading innovative bridge and civil structures projects. In this role, you’ll work closely with clients and have the opportunity to contribute to a variety of projects, including:


  • Bridge and box culvert design
  • Lake and dam spillways
  • Retaining walls and tunnels
  • Park structures
  • Water and wastewater treatment plant concrete tanks
  • Riverfront developments


Joe Appel, Structural Engineer SE, PE, LEED AP, shares:


“Working on this major structural and roadway project with the talented multi-discipline Shive-Hattery team, as well as the bridge consultants and Iowa and Illinois DOTs has been rewarding at many levels. Seeing the bridge being built and then used by pedestrians and motorists has been an ongoing example of the impacts that our work can have for the public good and what the addition of aesthetics and landscaping can add to a functional design. In essence, we are linking communities with innovative designs!”



You will find the right balance at Shive-Hattery. A large pool of resources in a 600+ person design firm, with a small firm feel where you build personal connections with colleagues, partners and clients. Flourish as a professional with the freedom to chart your own course and make an impact – and Design What Matters to make the world a better place.


At Shive-Hattery, our learning and teaching culture is built on collaboration. You’ll have the opportunity to both learn from and teach your peers, working across disciplines to enhance your skills and grow professionally.



If you have a passion to make clients successful, create thoughtfully designed public improvements and have these educational and professional experiences apply now:



Requirements:


  • Design projects as a structural engineer for transportation projects of various sizes. Work with experienced engineers and technicians while coordinating work within multi-discipline teams. The majority of efforts will focus on our long-standing public infrastructure clients who we work with locally and nationally
  • Must be capable of working on multiple projects simultaneously
  • Must be able to drive and have access to an automobile, climb ladders and work off of elevated platforms and open grating, and wear personal protective equipment required for specific clients and sites
  • Additional responsibilities include overseeing shop drawing reviews
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering or a related field
  • Experience: 4+ years in Structural Engineering
  • License/Certification: Professional Engineer license in Iowa or the ability to obtain license within 12 months
  • Experience leading project teams and interfacing with clients
  • Experience with OpenBridge Modeler, OpenRoads Designer, Microstation and other bridge design software is a an advantage Experience with Iowa DOT projects is a plus



Why Shive-Hattery?


Our learning and teaching culture is founded on collaboration. You will learn from and teach other employees while working across disciplines. You will grow your skills and continue your professional growth at Shive-Hattery.

We offer a competitive total compensation package, including industry-leading pay and over thirty-five benefits designed to support your well-being and career development.



Benefit Highlights:


· Medical, Dental, Vision – 4 tiers of coverage

· Voluntary Life Insurance – Employee, Spouse, and Child

· Voluntary Insurance Plans – Accident, Critical Illness, & Hospital Indemnity

· FSA – Medical & Dependent Care

· 8 Paid Holidays + PTO

· Paid Parental Leave

· 401K/Roth 401K with Company Match

· Overtime Bonus

· Profit Sharing Bonus

· First Time License Bonus

· Tuition Reimbursement & Licensure/Certification Financial Support

· Professional Development Opportunities

· Calm Meditation & Stress Relief Subscription

· …And Many More!


U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

  • At this time, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship now or in the future. Candidates must have current and ongoing authorization to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.

Notice to Recruiters and Staffing Agencies: To protect the interests of all parties, Shive-Hattery and its partners will not accept unsolicited candidate submissions from a recruiter or staffing agency who is not operating under an executed recruiting or staffing services contract with Shive-Hattery. Please do not contact our employees directly in that regard or otherwise submit unsolicited candidate information in any form.


Shive-Hattery offers a flexible work environment and supports balancing personal and professional responsibilities. We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.