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Bridge Tender Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Bridge Tenders may be assigned to different locations and shifts based on operational needs. Candidates must have reliable transportation, schedule flexibility, and the ability to travel between ...

The Movable Bridge Section Manager will be responsible for operations of the Tampa-based Movable Bridge group including project execution, staff development and morale, profitability, quality control ...

The Movable Bridge Section Manager will be responsible for operations of the Tampa-based Movable Bridge group including project execution, staff development and morale, profitability, quality control ...

Maintain discipline on the bridge and ensure all watchkeeping personnel perform their duties ... Tender Operations: * Be prepared to operate tenders and establish safe, secure passenger and crew ...

Bridge radar & navigation systems including electronic equipment in lifeboats and tenders * Onboard satellite communication systems (C-band, Fleetband Iridium) * Internal communication systems ...

Bridge radar & navigation systems including electronic equipment in lifeboats and tenders * Onboard satellite communication systems (C-band, Fleetband Iridium) * Internal communication systems ...

Bridge Tender information

See Florida salary details

$7

$18

$30

How much do bridge tender jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for bridge tender in Florida is $18.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $20.29 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 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.

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.

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 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 or lift bridges, often working in shifts and requiring certification or training in safety and operation procedures.

What are the most commonly searched types of Bridge Tender jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Bridge Tender jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Bridge Tender jobs in Florida?

For Bridge Tender jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bridge Tender jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Bridge Tender jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Bridge Tender jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Bridge Tender job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Bridge Tender jobs in FL?

For Bridge Tender jobs in FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Bridge Tender job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,428 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Floater Bridge Tender

Velociti Services

Venice, FL • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Velociti Services rating

4.5

Company rating: 4.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

243rd of 256 rated facilities management


Job description

This is a Floater position that requires travel between multiple bridge locations. Bridge Tenders may be assigned to different locations and shifts based on operational needs. Candidates must have reliable transportation, schedule flexibility, and the ability to travel between assigned bridge sites as needed.
Bridge Tenders at Velociti Services are responsible for safely operating and tending bridges to allow marine vessels to pass through designated waterways. Duties may include operating drawbridges, locks, and related bridge systems while following all established safety and operational procedures.
Success Criteria:
  • Follow all company procedures, policies, and rules.
  • Provide safe, courteous openings for marine traffic.
  • Provide a safe passage for vehicle traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians.
  • Follow all safety protocols.
  • Inform the supervisor immediately of all incidents, malfunctions, and accidents.
  • Ensure the safety of maintenance personnel.

Critical Areas of Collaboration and Influence:
  • A solid commitment to the guest experience.
  • Always remember safety first.
  • Build respectful relationships with all teammates and quests.
  • The ability to read and comprehend FDOT and U.S. Coast Guard manuals, rules, regulations, and procedures.
  • The ability to keep logs and records by FDOT procedures in correct, legible English.
  • The ability to effectively communicate in English on the VHF marine radio.
  • Maintain and guard stations in bridges to check waterways for boat traffic
  • Write and submit maintenance work requisitions
  • Check that bridges are clear of vehicles and pedestrians prior to opening.
  • Stop automobile and pedestrian traffic on bridges, and lower automobile gates prior to moving bridges
  • Raise drawbridges and observe passage of water traffic, then lower drawbridges and raise automobile gates

Ideal Candidate Experience:
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate
  • Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality
  • High School diploma/GED
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Verbal comprehension (Understand oral and written communications)
  • Communication skills (provide clear instructions/directions)
  • Reasoning skills (problem solving and troubleshooting skills)
  • Attention to detail
  • Passion for customer service
  • A positive attitude
  • Accountability and dependability in all that you do
  • Ability to communicate effectively with teammates
  • A strong commitment to company service values
  • Maintain neat accurate logs
  • Maintain a clean and orderly workspace

Physical Requirements:
Applicants for this role must be able to:
  • Meet and comply with the weight limitation safety rating and recommendations for any equipment associated with performing their duties, including the 300 lb. safety rating for ladders (both portable and affixed) and fall arrest equipment
  • Medium work, depending on location, can lift up to 50 pounds
  • Stoop / bend / kneel / crouch / balance / climb on an occasional basis
  • Demonstrate auditory and visual acuity / tracking / inspection

Benefits:
Velociti Services offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and well-being of our team members:
Company-Provided Benefits (Full-Time, 30+ Hours per Week)
  • Basic Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance

Voluntary Benefits:
  • Medical and Dental Insurance
  • Additional Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Hospital Indemnity, Accident, and Critical Illness Insurance

Retirement:
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan available for all team members

Velociti provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Anticipated Job Post End
8/31/2026

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