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Bridge Operator Jobs in Suffolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

Dragados

Heavy Equipment Operator

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

FD is seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to support the construction on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel expansion project. The Heavy Equipment Operator is primarily responsible for ...

Kokosing

Crane Operator

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

DC Operators License (for Blue Plains project in Washington, DC) ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ... Experience must be commensurate with requirements of project (e.g. bridge or utility experience ...

Kokosing

Crane Operator

Chesapeake, VA

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

DC Operators License (for Blue Plains project in Washington, DC) ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ... Experience must be commensurate with requirements of project (e.g. bridge or utility experience ...

Curtis Contracting, Inc.

Equipment Operator $25-$34

Hampton, VA · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The company is organized into multiple divisions, including Civil, Heavy Highway, Road & Bridge Maintenance, and Federal. Curtis Contracting, Inc. was founded on the principles of ethics, partnering ...

Curtis Contracting, Inc.

Equipment Operator -$25-$34

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The company is organized into multiple divisions, including Civil, Heavy Highway, Road & Bridge Maintenance, and Federal. Curtis Contracting, Inc. was founded on the principles of ethics, partnering ...

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All JobsBridge Operator JobsBridge Operator Jobs in Suffolk, VA

Bridge Operator information

See Suffolk, VA salary details

$28.5K

$47.7K

$65.2K

How much do bridge operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge operator in Suffolk, VA is $47,737.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $54,200.00 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 job categories do people searching Bridge Operator jobs in Suffolk, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Bridge Operator jobs in Suffolk, VA are:

What cities near Suffolk, VA are hiring for Bridge Operator jobs?

Cities near Suffolk, VA with the most Bridge Operator job openings:

Bridge Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bridge Operator job openings in Suffolk, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, 66% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,737 per year, or $23 per hour.

Bridge Tunnel Operation Crewmember

PRWT Services, Inc.

Hampton, VA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

U.S. Facilities, Inc., a consolidated facility management/infrastructure service organization, is seeking a Bridge-Tunnel Operation Crewmember to work at our site in Virginia. This is to be accomplished on a routine basis as outlined in the following responsibilities:
  • Occupy inspection station locations, stop, and inspect vehicles for over height, hazardous materials, facility security threats, and violations. Document issues and vehicles always encountered and notify Operations Crew Lead and control room of status.
  • Provide security by standing watch at various stations, remaining alert and highly visible, investigating, and reporting suspicious activities, directing, and controlling traffic throughout the facility in a safe and professional manner, utilizing appropriate traffic control techniques (hand signals, whistle, voice, STOP/SLOW paddles, etc.).
  • Possess the ability to maintain valid DMV licensure and operate various types of vehicular equipment that include SUVs, Passenger Vans, and Heavy-Duty Pickup Trucks w/arrow-board (i.e., GMC 2500).
  • Possess the physical ability to flag high volume traffic, which may include periods of prolonged standing in adverse weather conditions.
  • Operate hand tools to include, but are limited to, shovels, brooms, etc.
  • Assist State/Local Police, fire, rescue, other emergency responders, and maintenance personnel in emergencies and routine operations, using pertinent safety techniques (CPR/First Aid, etc.) and equipment. Maintain a thorough knowledge of Standard Operating Procedures and other applicable regulations. Perform necessary housekeeping duties to ensure a clean and safe work area. Operate patrol vehicles, monitor roadway conditions, and render assistance to stranded or disabled motorists on the roadway.
  • Respond to motorists and coworkers providing clear, accurate information and/or directions in a friendly, courteous, and professional manner. Ready to respond in case of an emergency in the tunnel.
  • Perform inspections of assigned work areas to include buildings, facility equipment, etc. Perform daily housekeeping duties to provide a safe, clean work environment.
  • Perform facility and grounds inspections to include multi-story industrial buildings.
  • Possess the ability to process over-height violations at HRBT and MMMBT to include violator vehicle escorts and turn around procedures.
  • Provide wide-load escorts at MMMBT and HRBT utilizing vehicular equipment.
  • Respond to incidences within the HRHT footprint of responsibility in equipment and provide incident support to include scene clean up, tunnel evacuations, traffic control, and place detour protocols, etc.
  • Possess the ability to operate various types of computer equipment and software.
  • Possess the ability to utilize the portable and permanent mount two-way radio equipment as well as articulate clear and concise communications.
  • Perform functions from light to moderate manual labor which includes, but is limited to, standing, stooping, pushing, pulling, lifting to 50 pounds, walking, standing, and sitting (prolonged periods).
  • Complete accurate and concise records utilizing Inspection Station Reports, Vehicle Inspections, Response Unit Inspections, etc.
  • Possess the ability to dispatch and deploy the Incident Response Trailer utilizing the equipment to incident scenes at HRBT, MMMBT, and JRB. This includes pre-trip inspections and post-usage stocking.
  • Expanded duties, subject to assignment: Monitor the safety of roadways (vehicle crashes, disabled/abandoned vehicles, debris, and lane-closing events, signal malfunctions, and general incident/congestion).
  • Provide roadside assistance to stranded motorists (including changing tires, giving battery jumps, providing fuel, removing debris from the travel lanes, etc.).
  • Work closely with other first responders at highway incidents by providing incident response, on-scene traffic control and basic first aid.
  • Communicate with Control Room staff regarding disabled vehicles, abandoned vehicles, debris, and lane-closing events and coordinates operations.
  • Any other duties as assigned by a supervisor and/or USF Senior Project Manager.

The following physical demands are frequently required as part of the role:
  • Ascend/descend steps and stairs.
  • Balancing activities that require body equilibrium.
  • Stooping and bending activities that include bending downward and forward.
  • Walking, standing, sitting, crouching, kneeling, squatting.
  • Driving a truck approximately 50 miles/day.
  • Seeing (including field of vision, distance close to eye).
  • Hand movement, including holding, finger dexterity and grasping.
  • Hearing
  • Issuing verbal instructions to motorists
  • Lifting 50 plus lbs.
  • Pulling/Pushing/Reaching/ using upper body force to drag, haul, move and/or guide objects and extending both arms in any direction.
  • Repetitive motions.
  • Working with machine operations, oscillating equipment, small parts.
  • Working in an outside environment (cold-hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, including rain and snow, light/daytime-dark/nighttime).
  • Working around hazards (traffic).

Qualifications:
Education:
  • High School diploma or GED.
  • Knowledge of Traffic Control operations, rules, and procedures.
  • Knowledge of Hampton Roads Interstate and local roadways.
  • Strong command on the English language and ability to communicate both in writing and verbally; bilingualism in Spanish is an asset.
  • General working knowledge of vehicle maintenance.
  • Experience in radio and phone communications.
  • Computer literate; experience with Windows-based applications and Apple devices.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in customer service.

Experience/Skill Sets:
  • Must be able to perform the physical demands of the job as outlined above.
  • Capable of multi-tasking and working in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to work weekends and holidays in a variety of weather conditions.
  • Ability to work diligently in a noisy environment.
  • Scheduling flexibility.
  • Field experience.

Work Conditions:
  • 90-day probation period.
  • Required VDOT/Industry training.
  • Dangerous work environment associated with on-foot roadway movement.
  • Significant all-season/all-hour Interstate driving.
  • Potential for significant periods of sitting or standing.
  • May be subject to short or no-notice work assignments.
  • Safety and organizational clothing and equipment required (provided).
  • Monitored performance with routine evaluation.
  • Frequent interaction with the public/media.

Compensation:
  • $17.00/Hourly
  • PTO 120 Hours Annually
  • Paid Holidays
  • 401-K

NOTE: This position is designed as essential and, as such, all duties associated with this job are required during emergency situations which may include but are not limited to inclement weather, disaster response and emergency operations. VDOT/Project Management will determine when essential positions are required.
Valid driver's license is required. DMV records check is required. Pre-employment drug screen is required. Fingerprint-based Criminal History Records Check is required.
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