Bridge and Lock Tenders

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 operators, and slip bridge operators.

SOC: 53-6011.00

Common Job Titles

Bridge OperatorBridge TenderLock Tender
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Bridge and Lock Tenders (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

2,720

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$32,690
10% of workers earn the following or more$74,400
Workers on average earn$56,520

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Public Safety and Security3.4/5
  • English Language3.3/5
  • Telecommunications3.0/5
  • Education and Training2.9/5
  • Transportation2.8/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Microsoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft WordOracle PeopleSoftSAP software

Technology Skills

Email softwareVirtual private networking VPN softwareWord processing software

Tools & Equipment

Adjustable wrenchesBalance weightsBittsBridge traffic signalsCable linesClosed circuit television CCTV monitoring systemsDesktop computersElectric drawbridges