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Bridge Tender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Door County, WI

Bridge Tender

Sturgeon Bay, WI · On-site

$21.88/hr

Job Summary The Bridge Tender operates and maintains drawbridges in Door County to ensure the safe and timely passage of marine, pedestrian, and vehicular traffic. This position supports public ...

Velociti Services

Bridge Tender

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$15/hr

Bridge Tenders at Velociti Services serve to operate and tend bridges, canal locks, and lighthouses to permit marine passage on inland waterways, near shores, and at danger points in waterway ...

Lee County, FL

Bridge Tender (On-Call)

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$17/hr

Help train new bridge tenders. * Do other tasks as assigned. Education, Experience, Licensing What We're Looking For: Education & Experience * High school diploma or GED Required * Valid driver ...

State of Illinois

$6.6K - $8.3K/mo

Bridge Tender 80% Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary: $6,690 Monthly; Full Range: $6,690 - $8,361 Monthly Job Type: Salaried Category: Part Time County: Pike Number of Vacancies: 1 Bargaining Unit ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Tender Manager

Plainfield, IL

$117K/yr

Bachelor's degree, or foreign degree equivalent, in Engineering (any) or related technical field, and three (3) years of experience in a related occupation required. * 3 years of experience in tender ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Tender Manager

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$117K/yr

Bachelor's degree, or foreign degree equivalent, in Engineering (any) or related technical field, and three (3) years of experience in a related occupation required. * 3 years of experience in tender ...

Water Technologies

Tender Manager

Plainfield, IL · On-site

Bachelor's degree, or foreign degree equivalent, in Engineering (any) or related technical field, and three (3) years of experience in a related occupation required. * 3 years of experience in tender ...

Door County, WI

Stand-by Bridgetender

Sturgeon Bay, WI · On-site

$20.50/hr

Job Summary The Stand By Bridge Tender operates and maintains drawbridges in Door County to ensure the safe and timely passage of marine, pedestrian, and vehicular traffic. This position supports ...

United States Army

Bridge Crewmember

Afton, MN

Bridge Crewmember Job Overview: Join our dynamic team to collaboratively construct, inspect, and operate temporary bridges in around the world. As a Bridge Crewmember, you'll utilize a mix of heavy ...

United States Army

Bridge Crewmember

Lino Lakes, MN

Bridge Crewmember Job Overview: Join our dynamic team to collaboratively construct, inspect, and operate temporary bridges in around the world. As a Bridge Crewmember, you'll utilize a mix of heavy ...

United States Army

Bridge Crewmember

Northfield, MN

Bridge Crewmember Job Overview: Join our dynamic team to collaboratively construct, inspect, and operate temporary bridges in around the world. As a Bridge Crewmember, you'll utilize a mix of heavy ...

United States Army

Bridge Crewmember

Minnetonka, MN

Bridge Crewmember Job Overview: Join our dynamic team to collaboratively construct, inspect, and operate temporary bridges in around the world. As a Bridge Crewmember, you'll utilize a mix of heavy ...

United States Army

Bridge Crewmember

Warren, WI

Bridge Crewmember Job Overview: Join our dynamic team to collaboratively construct, inspect, and operate temporary bridges in around the world. As a Bridge Crewmember, you'll utilize a mix of heavy ...

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Bridge Tender information

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$10

$24

$40

How much do bridge tender jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for bridge tender in the United States is $24.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bridge tender?

A bridge tender is in charge of bridge operation and safety. Their duties are to observe the waterway or railway to see approaching traffic, communicate with boat and train captains to coordinate passage, and open the bridge for a boat or vehicle to pass. A bridge tender may also be responsible for routine maintenance and inspection of the bridge equipment. Most people in this career receive on the job training, but knowledge of all vehicle safety and traffic regulations is important.

What are some common challenges faced by bridge tenders during their shifts?

Bridge tenders often face the challenge of maintaining constant vigilance over both waterway and roadway traffic, especially during periods of heavy use or inclement weather. They must be prepared to respond quickly to boaters’ requests for openings while ensuring the safety of vehicles and pedestrians. Additionally, bridge tenders work in shifts, which may include nights, weekends, and holidays, requiring adaptability to a variable schedule. Effective communication and attention to safety protocols are essential for managing these challenges.

Do bridge tenders work alone?

Bridge tenders typically work alone while operating and monitoring drawbridges or lift bridges, ensuring safe passage for vessels and vehicles. They often work in shifts and must stay alert to respond quickly to signals and emergencies, using communication tools like radios and control panels.

What does a bridge tender make?

A bridge tender typically earns an average salary ranging from $35,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They operate and monitor drawbridges, often working in shifts that include nights and weekends, and may require certification or training in safety procedures and equipment operation.

What is the difference between Bridge Tender vs Dock Worker?

AspectBridge TenderDock Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, possibly certification in operating bridge controlsHigh school diploma, safety training, physical fitness
Work EnvironmentOperate and monitor movable bridges, often in control towers or bridge housesLoad and unload ships, handle cargo, work in port or dock areas
Employer & IndustryPublic and private transportation agencies, shipping companiesShipping companies, port authorities, logistics firms

Bridge Tenders primarily operate and control movable bridges, ensuring safe passage for vessels and vehicles. Dock Workers focus on loading, unloading, and handling cargo at ports. While both roles are essential in maritime and transportation industries, they differ in responsibilities, work environment, and required skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a bridge tender?

To thrive as a Bridge Tender, you need a basic understanding of mechanical operations, attention to safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with control systems, marine radios, and maintenance tools is often required, and some positions may require specialized certifications. Strong observational skills, clear communication, and reliability are valuable soft skills for ensuring safe bridge operations and effective coordination with boat and vehicle traffic. These abilities are crucial to prevent accidents, maintain traffic flow, and respond quickly to emergencies or system malfunctions.
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Bridge Tender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bridge Tender job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,424 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Bridge Tender

Door County, WI

Sturgeon Bay, WI • On-site

$21.88/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Thank you for your interest in joining Door County Government!
Door County is proud to be a premier place to live, work, and visit. We serve nearly 30,000 year-round residents and a vibrant seasonal population by providing essential services that support and protect the people, economy, and environment of the beautiful Door Peninsula.
Within the County organization, the Highway & Airport Department is responsible for maintaining and improving essential transportation infrastructure. The Highway Division performs construction and maintenance on the County Trunk Highway system, provides general maintenance for State Highways under contract, and completes roadway work for local municipalities through established agreements.
The Airport Division carries out policies of the Federal Aviation Administration and the Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics to ensure the safe and efficient operation of airport facilities. The department oversees compliance with federal, state, and county regulations related to air transportation and supports the long-term reliability of Door County's aviation services.
To continue this important work, we are seeking a candidate who will perform the responsibilities outlined in the job summary and contribute to our efforts in serving the community.
Job Summary
The Bridge Tender operates and maintains drawbridges in Door County to ensure the safe and timely passage of marine, pedestrian, and vehicular traffic. This position supports public safety and infrastructure reliability by executing operational protocols, conducting preventative maintenance, and complying with state and federal regulations. Work is performed independently and requires vigilance, mechanical aptitude, and precise communication with vessels and agency personnel.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  1. Operates drawbridges in accordance with United States Coast Guard and Wisconsin Department of Transportation regulations, ensuring the safe coordination of marine, pedestrian, and vehicular traffic.
  2. Conducts routine inspections and minor maintenance, including greasing mechanical components, checking navigation lamps, and clearing debris from tracks and gears.
  3. Identifies and reports equipment malfunctions or safety concerns to supervisors or maintenance personnel for prompt resolution.
  4. Maintains accurate, daily records of bridge openings, closings, and mechanical issues; submits reports to the Chief Bridge Tender.
  5. Communicates effectively via two-way radio with vessel operators, County staff, and regulatory bodies to coordinate bridge operations and relay essential information.
  6. Assists in seasonal tasks such as snow removal on bridge sidewalks and gears, installing clearance guards, and painting as directed.
  7. Monitors security and traffic safety through visual and audio surveillance equipment, ensuring safe and uninterrupted operations.
  8. Responds to emergency alerts or call-ins as needed, including during nights, weekends, and inclement weather.
  9. Participates in ongoing training related to bridge operations, safety regulations, and emergency procedures.

Key Competencies & Skills
  • Situational Awareness: Maintains focused attention across multiple inputs (visual, auditory, and mechanical) to detect and respond to operational or safety issues.
  • Technical Proficiency: Operates complex mechanical and electrical systems with accuracy and adheres to procedural safety standards.
  • Communication: Provides clear, timely, and professional communications, both verbally and in writing, to internal and external audiences.
  • Problem Solving: Identifies operational anomalies or equipment issues and applies appropriate responses within regulatory and procedural guidelines.
  • Documentation: Accurately records operational data, maintenance actions, and incident details in compliance with reporting standards.
  • Judgment & Independence: Makes real-time decisions affecting public and vessel safety with minimal supervision, under established protocols.

Required Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • At least one (1) year of relevant work experience, preferably in mechanical operations, public works, or transportation.
  • Valid driver's license.

Preferred Education & Experience
  • Prior experience with bridge operation, marine navigation, or mechanical maintenance in a regulatory environment.
  • Familiarity with Coast Guard protocols and maritime communication standards.
  • At least one (1) year of computer experience with scheduling and data entry.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements
Work is primarily performed indoors in a controlled environment but requires frequent movement between indoor and outdoor settings. Exposure to extreme weather conditions occurs during seasonal maintenance and operational duties. Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds. The role requires crouching, bending, kneeling, twisting, and visual monitoring for extended periods. Vision must be correctable to 20/20 with normal depth perception and no night blindness. Hearing must fall within a normal range as defined by audiometric standards. On-call availability and overtime work may be required, especially during emergencies or peak traffic periods. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required during maintenance or emergency procedures.
Emergency Response Statement
In an effort to provide for continuity of County government and to cope with the problems of the emergency, you may be required to work during a proclaimed state of emergency, consistent with Sec. 323.14, Wis. Stats. and County emergency management plans and programs.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Door County is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.
Disclaimer
The above is intended to describe the general content of the requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.
Questions about the position or hiring process?
Contact Door County Human Resources at hr@co.door.wi.gov
(Mon-Thurs 7:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Fri 7:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.)
Applicants are encouraged to submit a cover letter describing their interest in the position and career goals.
In compliance with federal and state laws, if you require reasonable accommodation during any part of the application or selection process due to a disability, please notify Human Resources.
What to Expect:
Application Timeline
  • Position is open until filled - apply today.
  • Application materials may be reviewed as they are received.

Selection Process
Applicants may be evaluated through one or more of the following:
  • Review of application materials
  • Structured interview(s)
  • Skills tests, assessments, or work samples
  • Other job-related evaluation methods as applicable to the position

Pre-Employment Requirements
Final candidate(s) may be subject to:
  • Reference check(s)
  • Background check
  • Job-related pre-employment screening
  • License and credential verification

Thank you for your interest in this position with Door County. We look forward to reviewing your application.

Apply