Seasonal Bridge Tender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.