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Bridge Operator Jobs in Beaufort, SC (NOW HIRING)

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Client Services Associate

Bluffton, SC · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

You will serve as the primary administrative bridge between our clients, our advisors, and the ... Operating through Raymond James Financial Services, our practice pairs the boutique, high-touch ...

American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and ... Additional work periods may be possible during winter months aboard the few vessels operating or ...

Mate

Beaufort, SC · On-site

American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and ... Additional work periods may be possible during winter months aboard the few vessels operating or ...

Mate

Beaufort, SC · On-site

American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and ... Additional work periods may be possible during winter months aboard the few vessels operating or ...

Bridge Operator information

See Beaufort, SC salary details

$27.3K

$45.7K

$62.4K

How much do bridge operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge operator in Beaufort, SC is $45,691.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $51,900.00 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 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 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 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.

How do you become a bridge operator?

To become a bridge operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in operating mechanical or electrical systems. Training is often provided on the job, and some positions require certification or licensing, especially for operating drawbridges or complex machinery.

How much do bridge operators make?

Bridge operators in Louisiana typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience and location. They often work in environments requiring knowledge of mechanical systems and may need certification or licensing to operate drawbridges or similar equipment.

What cities near Beaufort, SC are hiring for Bridge Operator jobs?

Cities near Beaufort, SC with the most Bridge Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Bridge Operator job openings in Beaufort, SC 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 $45,691 per year, or $22 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

To monitor the work of contractors to ensure quality control and contract compliance for roadway, structure, and bridge construction/maintenance projects of moderate to considerable complexity. In addition to inspection responsibilities, the Senior Bridge Inspector may be required to provide inspection/project management, under the direction of a Construction Manager or designee.

Requirements

Detailed responsibilities include but are not limited to the performance of duties in the following areas:

  • Monitors operations to ensure compliance with contract terms, plans and specifications.
  • Independently coordinates and directs all phases of construction inspection of projects.
  • Verify lines, grades, dimensions, and elevations using survey and field engineering equipment.
  • Coordinates various phases of construction with prime contractor and client personnel.
  • Reviews and monitors contractors' plan of operation and advises of violations and recommends adjustments to operations.
  • Makes field measurement of pay items and conducts material testing
  • Prepares and maintains comprehensive project records including daily diaries, materials notebooks, as-build plans, pay quantity records, progress schedules, work orders and monthly estimates.
  • Aids in the development of work orders, investigations, and analysis of Notices of Intent.
  • Evaluates and monitors progress schedules and performs work order analysis.
  • Manages and coordinates inspection duties of other inspectors on a project.
  • Works with clients, project management, contractors, and others to identify problems and resolve them in a timely manner to minimize any negative impact on projects.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


Competencies

  1. Communication proficiency
  2. Ethical Conduct
  3. Flexibility
  4. Initiative
  5. Time Management

Supervisory Responsibility

This position has supervisory responsibilities.


Work Environment

This job is performed in a professional office environment and or transportation construction job sites. This role routinely uses field and standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, tablets, digital cameras, nuclear gauges, surveying tools and other field-testing equipment materials.


Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.


While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; climb, drive; lift things, use hands; and reach with hands and arms.


Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. This position typically works 40 or more hours per week. Day shifts usually start between 6:00 and 9:00 a.m. and last 8 to 10 hours. Project assignments can also require night or weekend work. Flexibility to meet client or contractor schedule is important.


Travel

Most assignments do not require more than an hour of travel to and from job sites. However, some assignments will require extensive regional travel each day and others could require staying out of town overnight if distance to job site is greater than 90 miles from home.


Required Education and Experience

Expected to have five (5) years of highway construction experience.

  • Operating computer equipment, software programs and field inspection equipment including Site Manager.
  • Read and interpret roadway, structure and bridge plans and specifications.
  • Maintain detailed records.
  • Perform and document required materials testing.
  • Communicate with the client and contractor personnel and the general public.

The Senior Bridge Inspector shall have comprehensive knowledge of:

  • Roadway, structure and bridge construction/maintenance/repair/rehabilitation methods, materials, standards, and specifications.
  • SCDOT Road and Bridge Specifications, Road and Bridge Standards, Construction Manual, and Inspector Manual.
  • SC Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).
  • State and federal environmental, safety, and Equal Employment Opportunity guidelines and regulations.
  • Use of contract management software including Site Manager.

The Senior Bridge Inspector is expected to be proficient with the following skills:

  • Provide technical supervision and leadership to other inspectors.
  • Prepare correspondence that communicates effectively with agency and contractor personnel and the general public.
  • Apply mathematical formulas and engineering principles to determine major field adjustments.
  • Functional computer usage including familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite software.

Certification & Issuing Agency

  • SCDOT Drilled Shafts - SCDOT
  • SCDOT Pile Driving - SCDOT
  • SCDOT Earthwork - SCDOT
  • SCDOT Asphalt - SCDOT
  • American Concrete Institute - ACI
  • SCDOT Concrete Level 1 and 2 - SCDOT
  • SCDOT Foundations - SCDOT
  • CEPSCI - SCDOT
  • 10 Hour OSHA Safety Training - OSHA
  • Nuclear Gauge Safety Training - NRC**Recognized Provider

Benefits

  • Bonus eligibility per Company Employee Bonus Program for fiscal year.
  • Medical, dental, short-term disability, long term disability, life insurances, per the company plan eligible on date of hire.
  • Two weeks paid vacation in accordance with the company policy.
  • Personal Time Off per the company policy.
  • Paid holidays are provided per the company policy.
  • Eligible for the company 401(k) plan on the 1st of the month following 12 months of active employment & 1,000 hours of work.
  • 401(k) immediate vesting of matching funds.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance (if applicable)

Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and pass a client background check if asked.


EEO Statement

QCS is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against applicants or employees based on any protected status under federal, state, or local law. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.


Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.