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Bridge Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JGM Inc.

Airport Tech - PBB Operator

Newark, NJ

$21.25/hr

A Passenger Boarding Bridge Operator (PBB) (also known as an air bridge, jet bridge, jetway) will help passengers to embark and disembark an aircraft without the requirement to go outside or to be ...

Montrose County, CO

Equipment Operator I/II

Montrose, CO · On-site

$25.39 - $32.86/hr

The Equipment Operator I is an entry level position and is distinguished from the Equipment ... Works under the direct supervision of a Road and Bridge Foreman and the close supervision of the ...

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All JobsBridge Operator Jobs

Bridge Operator information

See salary details

$30K

$50.2K

$68.5K

How much do bridge operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge operator in the United States is $50,181.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $57,000.00 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 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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A bridge operator typically earns less than $10,000 a month; high-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include specialized roles such as commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or certain sales managers. These positions usually require experience, certifications, or licenses rather than formal college degrees.

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 money do drawbridge operators make?

Drawbridge operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work in environments requiring certification and may work irregular hours, including nights and weekends.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Bridge operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, certifications, or significant experience. Most bridge operators earn a modest salary, with top earners in the field making significantly less than $500,000 per year.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Bridge operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are more common in specialized fields like certain executive roles, high-level consultants, or skilled trades such as commercial pilots or surgeons. These positions often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and work in high-demand environments. Most standard jobs, including bridge operation, have lower daily pay rates.
More about Bridge Operator jobs
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What are popular job titles related to Bridge Operator jobs? For Bridge Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Bridge Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bridge Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,181 per year, or $24.1 per hour.
BidWell Operator / Bridge Foreman

BidWell Operator / Bridge Foreman

Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc

Columbia, MO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 hours ago

Emery Sapp & Sons rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Location

Project-based / Regional Travel as Required

Position Summary

The Bridge Operator / BidWell Foreman is responsible for safely operating the BidWell concrete paving machine while supervising and leading a bridge deck crew. This role plays a critical part in delivering high-quality bridge decks by ensuring production targets, safety standards, specifications, and finish requirements are met. The ideal candidate combines hands-on equipment expertise with strong field leadership and a proactive safety mindset.

Key ResponsibilitiesBidWell & Equipment Operation
  • Operate the BidWell bridge paving machine efficiently and safely to place and finish concrete bridge decks.
  • Perform daily inspections, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting on BidWell equipment and related tools.
  • Coordinate with batch plant, concrete suppliers, and pump crews to maintain consistent concrete delivery and quality.
  • Monitor deck grades, slopes, and finishes to ensure compliance with project specifications and DOT standards.
Crew Leadership & Foreman Duties
  • Lead, supervise, and direct bridge crews, including operators, finishers, and laborers.
  • Plan daily work activities and assign tasks to maximize productivity and efficiency.
  • Serve as the point of contact between the crew, superintendent, inspectors, and engineers.
  • Train and mentor crew members on proper procedures, equipment use, and safety expectations.
Quality, Safety & Production
  • Enforce all company safety policies and ensure compliance with OSHA and site-specific safety plans.
  • Conduct daily safety meetings (Job Safety Analyses / Toolbox Talks).
  • Maintain high-quality concrete finishes and address issues in real time.
  • Track production, manpower, and equipment usage; report updates to the superintendent.
Project Coordination
  • Read and interpret plans, specifications, grades, and pour sequences.
  • Coordinate finishes, curing processes, and clean-up activities.
  • Assist with planning pours, scheduling manpower, and preparing for deck placements.
  • Identify potential issues ahead of pours and proactively communicate solutions.
Required Qualifications
  • 5+ years of bridge or heavy civil concrete experience, with direct BidWell operation preferred.
  • Prior foreman or lead experience on bridges, structural concrete, or paving crews.
  • Strong understanding of concrete placement, finishing, curing, and bridge deck tolerances.
  • Ability to read and interpret bridge plans, grades, and specifications.
  • Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage crews.
  • Commitment to safety, quality, and production.
  • Valid driver's license; ability to travel and work extended hours as required.
Preferred Qualifications
  • DOT bridge experience.
  • Experience with stringless control, grade control, or survey coordination.
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
  • Experience working with inspectors and engineers during pours.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to stand, walk, climb, and work on elevated bridge decks for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical labor as needed.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

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