National

Operate and tend bridges, canal locks, and lighthouses to permit marine passage on inland waterways, near shores, and at danger points in waterway passages. May supervise such operations. Includes drawbridge operators, lock tenders and operators, and slip bridge operators.

Sample of reported job titles: Lock Tender, Bridge Operator, Bridge Tender

Tasks

• Move levers to activate traffic signals, navigation lights, and alarms.
• Record names, types, and destinations of vessels passing through bridge openings or locks, and numbers of trains or vehicles crossing bridges.
• Control machinery to open and close canal locks and dams, railroad or highway drawbridges, or horizontally or vertically adjustable bridges.
• Direct movements of vessels in locks or bridge areas, using signals, telecommunication equipment, or loudspeakers.
• Prepare accident reports.
• Observe approaching vessels to determine size and speed, and listen for whistle signals indicating desire to pass.
• Observe position and progress of vessels to ensure best utilization of lock spaces or bridge opening spaces.
• Maintain and guard stations in bridges to check waterways for boat traffic.
• Inspect canal and bridge equipment, and areas such as roadbeds for damage or defects, reporting problems to supervisors as necessary.
• Clean and lubricate equipment, and make minor repairs and adjustments.

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