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Bridge Operator Jobs in Venice, FL (NOW HIRING)

Aquatics Assistant Lead

Lakewood Ranch, FL · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

StarGuardElite Lifeguard, BLS CPR, and First Aid Certified (or bridge toStarGuardwhen current ... National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Pool Operator: Pool and Hot Tub Association (PHTA ...

Senior Project Engineer - CEI

Venice, FL · Hybrid

$93K - $121K/yr

... roadway, bridge, infrastructure, etc.). Your key responsibilities will include ensuring that ... sitting or operating a company vehicle. This job may require lifting, carrying, pushing, and ...

Senior Project Engineer - CEI

Venice, FL · Hybrid

$93K - $121K/yr

... roadway, bridge, infrastructure, etc.). Your key responsibilities will include ensuring that ... sitting or operating a company vehicle. This job may require lifting, carrying, pushing, and ...

Food Prep

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

A passion project of three long time friends, Pacific Counter was created to bridge the gap between ... We have six locations all locally owned and operated, with several more in the works. We pride ...

Food Prep

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

A passion project of three long time friends, Pacific Counter was created to bridge the gap between ... We have six locations all locally owned and operated, with several more in the works. We pride ...

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Bridge Operator information

See Venice, FL salary details

$28.2K

$47.2K

$64.5K

How much do bridge operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge operator in Venice, FL is $47,229.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $53,600.00 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 Venice, FL are hiring for Bridge Operator jobs?

Cities near Venice, FL with the most Bridge Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Bridge Operator job openings in Venice, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,229 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Equipment Operator- Road & Bridge Construction

Sarasota County

Sarasota, FL • On-site

$22.14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate a range of heavy equipment including dozers, front-end loaders, motor graders, backhoes, transport vehicles, long-arm mowers, grapple trucks, Gradall hydraulic excavators, and other large equipment to perform construction and maintenance tasks.

  • Assist with the installation and repair of concrete structures such as sidewalks, curbs, gutters, driveways, guardrails, and ADA ramps, including building forms and operating power tools.

  • Perform roadway and right-of-way maintenance activities including debris removal, tree trimming, shoulder repairs, grading of unpaved roads, and support asphalt maintenance and repair tasks.


Sarasota County rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

574th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Department:
Transportation
Start Here. Grow Here. Stay Here.
Ready to put your heavy equipment skills to work where they matter most?
If you have experience in construction and operating heavy machinery, join Sarasota County as an Equipment Operator. In this role, you'll operate a range of equipment while helping maintain and repair asphalt roadways, concrete surfaces, and bridges - keeping our roads safe and accessible for drivers and pedestrians every day.
This is your opportunity to build a meaningful career while enjoying the excellent benefits the County has to offer - benefits that start within just 60 days of hire!
Apply today and take pride in knowing your work helps keep Sarasota County's roads, bridges, and infrastructure safe and moving.
About This Role
  • Operates heavy equipment, including dozers (D4 or larger), front-end loaders (1.5 cubic yards or larger), motor graders, backhoes (1 cubic yard or larger), transport vehicles, long-arm mowers (23" or larger), grapple trucks, Gradall hydraulic excavators, and various trucks, tandems, and tractors with a GVW greater than 28,000 pounds, as well as other large and complex equipment
  • Assist with installation and repair of concrete structures, including sidewalks, curbs, gutters, driveways, guardrails, and ADA ramps
  • Support concrete work by building forms and operating power tools for preparation and finishing
  • Assist with asphalt maintenance and repair, including road cuts, pothole repair, and roadway modifications in compliance with DOT standards
  • Perform traffic control duties, including setting up Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) and flagging for safe work zones
  • Conduct roadway and right-of-way maintenance, including debris removal, tree trimming, shoulder repairs, and grading of unpaved roads
  • Operate equipment and complete work orders accurately and in a timely manner

Work Hours:
  • Monday - Friday
  • 6:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
  • * On-Call Required

About You
Minimum Qualifications:
  • A High School Diploma or its equivalent
  • Two (2) years of experience in the construction, maintenance and repair of vehicle and pedestrian travel way systems and /or road rights-of-way areas.
  • State of Florida Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class "A" with Tanker "N" endorsement at the time of hire
  • Valid Florida Drives license at the time of hire

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in operating equipment used for concrete, asphalt and Bridge maintenance functions in and around road rights-of-ways.

Physical Demands: Must frequently lift and/or move 50 pounds.
Subject to Passing Substance Screening: This position is subject to passing a pre-employment substance screening. An applicant who fails to pass a required drug screening test shall be disqualified from employment in any class for a period of five (5) years.
About Everything Else
Starting Pay: $22.14 (Step 1)
Potential higher pay (steps) for those with multiple years of experience
Our interview process could include phone interview(s), Microsoft Teams video interview(s), and/or in-person interview(s).
If you are selected to join our team, please click on this link to review the Required First Day DocumentsYou will need to present the following items on your first day:
1. I-9 Acceptable Documents to show your identity and authorization to work. Use this link to learn more and review the different document options: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
  • If your position requires a Florida Driver's License, this must be one of your documents. (Your Florida Driver's License can serve as one of your documents listed in link above - List B Documents.)

2. U.S. Social Security Card (signed, physical card). This is a requirement of our Payroll Department and failure to provide this document could jeopardize timely compensation. (Your U.S. Social Security Card can serve as one of your documents listed in link above - List C Documents.)
Benefits:
  • Enjoy great benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Florida Retirement System (FRS) and many, many more! Choose one of three great medical plans, including one with a $0 premium option, with completed preventative visits!
  • For more information about employee benefits, please click this link or visit SCGov.net for additional information.
  • Utilize our award-winning wellness program including free gyms at multiple Sarasota County Government locations.
  • Enjoy 11 paid holidays, 3 personal days and 16 paid vacation days in the first year of full-time employment with increasing accrual rates with years of service. (That adds up to a possible 30 days off in your 1st year!)

A different blend of voices prompt better conversations, choices and results for everyone. Sarasota County - Many Voices, One Team.
We celebrate and value the experiences, backgrounds, perspectives, talents and strengths that make us different.
Our vision is to attract, develop, retain and engage a talented workforce broadly representative of the citizens and communities we serve. To further value creativity, innovation, collaboration and great customer service - internally and externally.
A job applicant with a disability who requires reasonable accommodation to participate in the application/selection process is requested to make known the need for an accommodation to Human Resources or appropriate county staff members. For assistance with the application, please call 941-861-5353.
Sarasota County prohibits discrimination in all services, programs or activities. View the complete policy at scgov.net (keywords: ADA Compliance).
Sarasota County Government is a Tobacco-Free/Drug-Free Workplace.

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