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Bridge Operator Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Bridge and/or Structures Carpenter General Description A Bridge and/or Structure Carpenter is an ... Provide essential signals and direction to crane operators during the placement of heavy materials.

Bridge and/or Structures Carpenter General Description A Bridge and/or Structure Carpenter is an ... Provide essential signals and direction to crane operators during the placement of heavy materials.

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Full-Time Bridge Inspection Team Leader! This position ... S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms.

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Full-Time Bridge Inspection Team Leader! This position ... S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms.

Experience operating bucket trucks, manlifts, or under-bridge inspection vehicles * One year of rope access experience on bridges * Ability to read plans and follow technical guidance * Effective ...

Operating access equipment and other equipment to perform inspections What you need to have: * The ... Must have NBIS Bridge Inspection Course * NHI Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges course with ...

Operating access equipment and other equipment to perform inspections What you need to have: * The ... Must have NBIS Bridge Inspection Course * NHI Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges course with ...

Bridge Laborer (DOT Bridge Work) Rock Creek Grading, LLC North Carolina Job Type Full-time Rock Creek Grading is hiring an experienced Bridge Laborer for DOT bridge construction projects across North ...

Bridge Laborer (DOT Bridge Work) Rock Creek Grading, LLC North Carolina Job Type Full-time Rock Creek Grading is hiring an experienced Bridge Laborer for DOT bridge construction projects across North ...

Bridge Laborer (DOT Bridge Work) Rock Creek Grading, LLC North Carolina Job Type Full-time Rock Creek Grading is hiring an experienced Bridge Laborer for DOT bridge construction projects across North ...

WSP is seeking an experienced Bridge Inspection District Manager! This position is HYBRID and can ... Accountable for district revenue growth, backlog development, operating margin, and financial ...

WSP is seeking an experienced Bridge Inspection District Manager! This position is HYBRID and can ... Accountable for district revenue growth, backlog development, operating margin, and financial ...

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Bridge Operator information

See North Carolina salary details

$27.3K

$45.6K

$62.3K

How much do bridge operator jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge operator in North Carolina is $45,604.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $51,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Bridge Operator jobs in North Carolina? For Bridge Operator jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Bridge Operator jobs in North Carolina look for? The top searched job categories for Bridge Operator jobs in North Carolina are:
What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Bridge Operator jobs? Cities in North Carolina with the most Bridge Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Bridge Operator jobs in NC? For Bridge Operator jobs in NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Bridge Operator job openings in North Carolina as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,604 per year, or $21.9 per hour.
Bridge Carpenter

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Bridge and/or Structures Carpenter

General Description

A Bridge and/or Structure Carpenter is an hourly-rated skilled craft position that will perform tasks involving the construction of forms for concrete footings, slabs, walls, columns, bridge decks and bent caps.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Bridge Carpenters are responsible for carrying out a wide range of physical responsibilities which may include:

  • Formwork:Build and install specialized wooden or metal forms for molding concrete bridge components like piers, footers, abutments, and bridge decks.
  • Concrete Operations:Assist in pouring, vibrating, grading, and finishing concrete to ensure it meets structural specifications.
  • Steel Reinforcement:Set and tie steel rebar within forms to provide critical tension strength to concrete structures.
  • Equipment Operation:Use a variety of hand and power tools (saws, jackhammers, air chisels) and sometimes operate heavy equipment like boom trucks or man-lifts.
  • Safety Structures:Erect and dismantle temporary support structures, including scaffolding, rigging, ladders, and safety railings.
  • Site Maintenance:Manage materials by loading/unloading supplies and maintaining a clean, hazard-free job site.
  • Rigging & Flagging:Provide essential signals and direction to crane operators during the placement of heavy materials.
  • Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts.

General. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each Key Duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 

Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

  • Extensive knowledge of materials, methods, and tools used for bridges, highways, and concrete structures.
  • Ability to read blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications.
  • Expertise in using power tools, woodworking equipment, and welding/cutting tools.
  • Ability to measure, mark, and cut materials with extreme accuracy.
  • Ability to follow detailed instructions and work well in teams.
  • Maintain visual and physical alertness, throughout the workshift.
  • Reliable, in reporting for scheduled work shift.
  • Meticulous focus on safety and precision to avoid structural defects.
  • Ability to adapt to, and resolve, unexpected challenges on-site.

 

Education and Experience. This position is an entry-level role and requires minimal experience in the asphalt industry.

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Must be able to understand verbal and visual instructions and communicate effectively with job site supervisors and fellow employees.

 

 

 

Physical Demands. The following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by a Bridge Carpenter to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

  • Frequent ability to be on feet for at least 8 hours per shift.
  • Frequent ability to work at heights >6'.
  • Frequent ability to safely walk on various walking surfaces, including asphalt, concrete, dirt, stone and rebar.
  • Frequent ability to stoop, bend, and crouch.
  • Frequent physical hand and arm dexterity to use hand and power tools.
  • Occasional ability to lift, push and pull up to 50 lbs.
  • Constant vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Constant ability to hear, understand, and distinguish speech and/or other sounds (e.g., moving equipment, backing alarms, or other alarms, instructions/directions from supervisor and/or spotter).

Work Environment. The work environment characteristics described below are representative of those that an Bridge Carpenter will encounter while performing the essential functions of this job.

  • Work is performed outdoors, in various weather conditions; typically excluding below freezing temperatures and raining.
  • Work environment periodically exposes the employees to high levels of noise, commonly found in road construction; however below the Permissible Exposure Limit.
  • Work may involve a variety of substances commonly found in road construction or near equipment, such as, grease, diesel fuel and gasoline.
  • Employee regularly works near heavy equipment, moving machinery, and near traffic.

 

Demonstrates Safety 1st. It is important for members of our team to be actively involved in their own safety, while being considerate of fellow employees.

  • Assess work environment for possible hazards and makes sure training is adequate to perform work.
  • Has proper personal protective equipment and tools, uses them appropriately for the given task.
  • Speaks up if seeing an unsafe act
  • Identifies and turns in near miss reports
  • Asks for help, when needed, to perform tasks safely.
  • Considers if there is a safer way to perform work and communicates.

 Career Benefits:

  • Medical & Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Company Paid Life and AD&D Insurance Policy
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Voluntary Term Life
  • Paid Personal Time Off (vacation & sick)
  • Paid Observed Holidays
  • 401(k) Plan w/employer match
  • Continuing Education and Training Opportunities
  • Company Stock Purchasing Opportunity w/Bonus Shares
  • Company paid Employee and Family Assistance Program
  • Company Child/Grandchild Scholarship Opportunities

We support a Drug-Free Workplace.  EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability are encouraged to apply.