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.
What does a bridge tender do? A lock tender operates and maintains a bridge to ensure a safe passage of water traffic and vehicles on the bridge. They are also called Bridge Tenders. Also, they are responsible for controlling the machinery, the closing dams and canals etc.
A career as bridge and lock tenders requires skills such as attention to detail, integrity, cooperation, and concern for others. Besides that, they must have hands-on experience and knowledge in various software such as Microsoft Outlook, SAP Software, and Microsoft Excel.
The qualifications for bridge tender jobs include a High School Diploma or equivalent with an experience certificate in the respective field. To have a successful career in bridge and lock tenders one must be patient and have immense knowledge about the types of metals and tools used in the duty. Once completing the education, training, and experience, one can choose their career from the following profiles- segmental pavers, subway and streetcar operators, parking enforcement workers, railroad brake, signal, and switch operators. However, the bridge and lock tenders salary depends on the experience and qualifications of the candidate.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- Diploma Electrical Engineering Technology
- ITI Course Mechanic-cum Operator Electronic Communication Systems
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 use 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.
Progression Routes
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