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Entry Level Drawbridge Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summary Statement This position will work as a drawbridge operator in Wilmington during the months ... From November thru April, this position will work as an entry-level equipment operator in the area ...

Entry Level Machine Operator

Golden, CO

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Job Title Entry Level Machine Operator Job Summary We are hiring Entry Level Machine Operators to join a growing manufacturing team. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to start a ...

Entry Level Machine Operator

Golden, CO · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Job Title Entry Level Machine Operator Job Summary We are hiring Entry Level Machine Operators to join a growing manufacturing team. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to start a ...

Entry Level Drawbridge Operator information

See salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do entry level drawbridge operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level drawbridge operator in the United States is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level drawbridge operator?

Entry level drawbridge operators are professionals responsible for operating and overseeing the safe movement of drawbridges, allowing boats and ships to pass through waterways while ensuring road traffic is managed safely. They monitor bridge controls, communicate with vessel operators, and follow safety procedures to prevent accidents. Typically, entry level operators receive on-the-job training and work under the supervision of more experienced staff as they learn the specific protocols and mechanical systems involved. This role often requires attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to remain alert during shifts. Entry level positions may be found with local governments, transportation authorities, or private contractors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level drawbridge operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Drawbridge Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to safety procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with control panels, two-way radios, and routine maintenance tools is typically required, and some regions may require specific licensing or on-the-job training. Strong observational skills, reliability, and effective communication help operators coordinate with marine and land traffic and respond swiftly to emergencies. These skills are crucial to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the drawbridge while minimizing risks to both vehicles and vessels.

What is the difference between Entry Level Drawbridge Operator vs Entry Level Lock Operator?

AspectEntry Level Drawbridge OperatorEntry Level Lock Operator
Required CertificationsPossibly valid driver’s license, safety trainingPossibly valid driver’s license, safety training
Work EnvironmentNear waterways, drawbridge control stationsNear locks, waterway control points
Industry UsageMaritime, transportation, infrastructureMaritime, transportation, infrastructure
Common Search IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in bridge operationsUnderstanding entry-level roles in lock operations

Both roles involve operating waterway infrastructure and may require similar certifications. The main difference lies in the specific environment: drawbridge operators control movable bridges over waterways, while lock operators manage water levels in locks. Both are entry-level positions in maritime and transportation sectors, often requiring safety training and a valid driver’s license. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right entry point into waterway infrastructure careers.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level drawbridge operators, and how are they addressed?

Entry level drawbridge operators often face challenges such as adapting to variable shift schedules, maintaining high attention to safety protocols, and responding quickly to unexpected situations like mechanical issues or emergency vessel passages. To address these, operators receive comprehensive on-the-job training, work closely with more experienced team members, and follow established checklists and communication procedures. Team collaboration and regular drills also help build confidence and preparedness for handling any incidents that may arise.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drawbridge Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Drawbridge Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Drawbridge Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Locum Tenens, 5% Internship, 31% As Needed, 21% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 1% Physical, and 99% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $36,327 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Equipment Operator I

State of Delaware

Bear, DE • On-site

$33K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


State Of Delaware rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 50 rated states


Job description

Introduction
The mission of Maintenance & Operations is to provide excellence in transportation by keeping the state's road transportation network in a state of good repair through the careful and consistent application of personnel, equipment and financial resources.
Click here to learn more about DelDOT Maintenance & Operations Division.
Summary Statement
This position will work as a drawbridge operator in Wilmington during the months of May through October. The regular working hours will be 10 am to 8 pm, 4 days per week. From November thru April, this position will work as an entry-level equipment operator in the area yard. This position will work as a member of a crew performing typical roadway maintenance functions under close direction of a technical superior. This position must be available to work overtime as needed, and during storm events and other emergency events on short notice and in some cases no advance notice. Plus Hazard pay.
Essential Functions
Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.
  • Drives and controls on/off-road equipment to haul supplies to and from the work site. This may include public highway systems.
  • Manipulates equipment with integrated mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic systems/controls by coding computers and or adjusting levers, gears, valves, switches and related controls.
  • Operates mobile equipment and hand tools to dig, ditch, slope, strip, grade, backfill, mow, and clear and excavate.
  • Loads and unloads rock, debris, earth, trees and materials, such as abrasives, de-icing chemicals/hazardous material using hands, loaders, trucks, hand-truck, forklift, dolly-lift and hoist.
  • Operates hand tools such as jackhammers, mechanical tampers, power saws, air compressors, hydraulic drivers, and similar equipment to make general repairs of roads, grounds, and/or structures.
  • Performs construction/maintenance and repairs in a variety of labor/trades fields such as carpentry, welding, and masonry.
  • Responds to environmental/highway emergency situations to control snow, storm water, hazardous debris, oil spills, etc. on roads, grounds and related areas.
  • Uses traffic control techniques to control high/low speed vehicular traffic movements.
  • Performs preventive maintenance, operational checks, pre, and post walk around inspections, and makes minor repairs/adjustments of assigned equipment; reports damage and /or required maintenance.
  • May operate draw and swing bridges to permit both water and roadway traffic to pass safely.

Job Requirements
Job Requirements for Equipment Operator I
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:
  1. Knowledge of preventative maintenance on vehicles and equipment which includes lubricating, cleaning, and servicing.
  2. Knowledge of operating a variety of equipment used in repair, maintenance, and development of roads, grounds, or structures such as jack hammers, power saws, air compressors, or hydraulic post drivers.
  3. Knowledge of operating motorized equipment used for groundskeeping, snow removal, or hauling materials.
  4. Possession of a valid Driver's License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).

Conditions of Hire
As a condition of hire you must possess a valid driver's license (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).
As a condition of hire you must possess a valid CDL Class A or B drivers license (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving) OR obtain one during the initial 90-day probationary period.
Criminal background check: A satisfactory criminal background check is required as a condition of hire. The recruiting agency may require the applicant to pay for the criminal background check as part of the conditional offer of hire.
Pre-employment Drug Testing: Upon a conditional offer, you must undergo pre-employment drug testing as part of the hiring process.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. The State of Delaware participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. For more information refer to our Job Seeker Resources. DelDOT does not provide employment-based sponsorship.
This position is a classification organized under an exclusive bargaining representative (labor organization) that has been elected by employees as their representative for collective bargaining and other applicable terms and conditions of employment, in accordance with Title 29, Chapter 59 and Title 19, Chapter 13 and 16. This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement based on its individual terms.
All new hires are required to report to the Statewide New Employee Orientation (SNEO) on their first day of employment. Sessions are held at designated locations in Kent or New Castle County.
Benefits
To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/
Selection Process
The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position. It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties. For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content. Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.
Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email. Please keep your contact information current. You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the "My Applications" tab at StateJobs.Delaware.gov.
Accommodations
Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.
Individuals who use TDD may request auxiliary aid or service by calling (800) 232-5470 or by visiting delawarerelay.com.
If you need assistance with an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or general applicant support, you may call (302) 739-5458 or email jobs@delaware.gov.
The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

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