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Bridge Operator Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Lochner

Bridge Inspection Team Leader

Tewksbury, MA · On-site

We are seeking a motivated and experienced Bridge Inspection Team Leader to support bridge ... Experience operating inspection equipment and coordinating lane closures or police details. Joining ...

WSP

Bridge Inspection - Structural Engineer

Worcester, MA · On-site

$79K - $129K/yr

Work with our Bridge & Infrastructure Inspection Team on a variety of inspection related projects ... S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms.

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All JobsBridge Operator JobsBridge Operator Jobs in Massachusetts

Bridge Operator information

See Massachusetts salary details

$32.8K

$54.8K

$74.8K

How much do bridge operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge operator in Massachusetts is $54,804.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $62,300.00 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.
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What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Bridge Operator jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Bridge Operator job openings:
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Bridge Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bridge Operator job openings in Massachusetts as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,804 per year, or $26.3 per hour.
Bridge Operator I

Bridge Operator I

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Boston, MA • On-site

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Location : Statewide, MA
Job Type: Not Applicable
Job Number: LS_BridgeOperator1
Department: HRD
Opening Date: 01/01/2012
Incumbents of positions in this series operate electrical and mechanical equipment and control devices to raise, lower, open and/or close drawbridges, locks and traffic gates; control water levels; determine the order and number of vessels to be allowed to pass through the locks at one time to ensure the safety of crew members and vessels; use public address system, flags, marine radio equipment and/or TV monitor to control boat and street traffic; maintain records and logs; makes minor mechanical and electrical repairs to machinery and equipment; and perform related work as required. The basic purpose of this work is to operate drawbridges, locks and traffic gates so that vessels may pass safely and the safety of vehicular traffic is maintained.
Operates locks, drawbridges and traffic gates at locks and bridges by using electrical control panels; raises and lowers lock water levels by starting and stopping pumps, opening and closing valves, etc.; and opens and closes lock gates to allow boat passage.
Determines when to initiate action and the methods to be used to lower water level, i.e., by pumping, sluicing, etc. to ensure that predetermined water levels are not exceeded; opens and closes sluice gates to control water levels.
Determines the order and number of vessels passing through locks to ensure the safety of crews and vessels and uses public address system, flags, marine radio equipment and/or TV monitor to control boat and street traffic.
Maintains records and logs such as those for bridge opening and closing times, weather, tides, registration numbers, water depth, etc.
Makes minor mechanical and electrical repairs to machinery and equipment used in the operation of bridges such as replacing grease fittings or other minor parts, lubricating bearings, gears and/or chains for locks' mechanisms, replacing lamp bulbs fuses and lamp lenses, etc.; resolves malfunctions such as inoperative traffic gates by using backup manual controls and burned out lamps by hanging lanterns and makes recommendations for major repairs to machinery and equipment.
Performs security checks of area to prevent unauthorized entry.
Responds to emergency situations such as boat and car accidents, suicides, fires, etc.
Determines seaworthiness of vessels before allowing or denying passage.
Performs related duties such as cleaning locks and operator's house by sweeping, picking up litter, washing windows, cleaning furniture, etc.; loading and unloading equipment and/or supplies; requisitioning supplies and equipment; operating snow blower; and administering first aid in emergencies.
1 year of experience in related work is required.
There is no Benefit Code
01
Do you have 1 year of experience in related work within the 10 year period immediately prior to filing this application?
  • Yes
  • No

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