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Bridge Operator Job Description

What does a Bridge Operator do?

A Bridge Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of a bridge, ensuring that vessels can pass through the waterway without obstruction. Their duties include monitoring marine traffic, raising and lowering the bridge, communicating with vessel captains, and performing routine maintenance tasks. Additionally, Bridge Operators must adhere to strict safety protocols and regulations to ensure the safety of both maritime and land-based communities.

Our Bridge Operator job description includes the Bridge Operator responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.

Bridge Operator Example


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If you need an example job description for a Bridge Operator download the one below, alternatively we have many other Transportation and Logistics job description samples and a job description library with over 3000 job descriptions templates that you can download for free.

What does a Bridge Operator do?

The Bridge Operator is responsible for operating bridge-related equipment, such as lift bridges, swing bridges, drawbridges and bascule bridges, in order to ensure safe and efficient passage of vehicles and vessels. The Bridge Operator will ensure that all bridge functions are carried out in accordance with the relevant regulations and guidelines, and will collaborate with other operators, engineers and personnel to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the bridge.

The Bridge Operator will be responsible for monitoring the bridge and its associated equipment, including traffic signals, hydraulic systems, electrical systems and motors. They will also be responsible for responding to bridge alarms and other related problems, and will be required to troubleshoot and repair any malfunctions. The Bridge Operator will be required to ensure that all bridge operations are conducted in a safe and professional manner, and will be required to maintain accurate log and record keeping of bridge operations.

The Bridge Operator will be expected to have a strong knowledge of bridge operations, including the relevant regulations, safety and security procedures. They will also need to possess excellent communication skills and the ability to work within a team environment. A valid driver’s license may also be required.

Bridge Operator Role Purpose

The purpose of a Bridge Operator is to ensure the safe and efficient operation of a bridge, such as a railway bridge or a bridge carrying a road. This involves monitoring and controlling the bridge's machinery, as well as any other traffic that may be present, to ensure the safe and uninterrupted passage of trains and other vehicles over the bridge. The Bridge Operator will also be responsible for carrying out regular maintenance and inspection tasks to ensure the bridge is in a safe condition.

Bridge Operator Role

Bridge Operator is responsible for the safe operation of a bridge, including its controls, systems, and equipment. They must ensure that the bridge operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable regulations and laws. They must also maintain proper communication with the bridge's users and other vessels in the vicinity.

Bridge Operator Duties

  • Operate and maintain bridge lifts and associated machinery
  • Undertake bridge opening and closing according to procedures
  • Monitor and adjust bridge lift equipment as required
  • Ensure the safety of vessel traffic and pedestrians
  • Carry out routine maintenance and record keeping

Bridge Operator Requirements

  • Ability to work shifts
  • Attention to detail
  • Good communication skills
  • Ability to work independently

Bridge Operator Skills

  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to work well under pressure
  • Ability to work unsupervised
  • Knowledge of bridge operating systems and procedures

Bridge Operator Personal Traits

  • Good communication skills
  • Ability to work independently
  • Able to work under pressure

How to write a Bridge Operator Job Advert

Use our job advert template to write a job advert for posting on job sites and job boards. Our job advertising templates are carefully created to help you reach your audience and beat the competition to the best talent.

A job description informs the reader about a job, whereas a job advert’s main objective is to sell the job opportunity to attract as many suitable applicants possible. A job advert maybe the first touch-point a candidate has with your company so it is important to create a great impression.

Job Advertisements should enticing, so considering using short, exciting language which get the reader’s attention.

How to write a Bridge Operator Job Description

To write a job description, we recommend starting with a job description template from our job description library, which contains examples for 800+ positions and professions. Our job description examples include a job summary with duties and responsibilities and skills and requirements, which can be personalised for your job vacancy.

Job Description Advice - Guidance on How to Personalise a Bridge Operator Job Specification

The hiring process and recruiting new employees to fill your key roles requires a degree of personalisation if you are to attract the best employees in a competitive employment market. The right person for a crucial role or more senior roles will likely have other employers targeting them. As your job description will be the first point of contact, you need to nail your pitch and provide the best possible service.

Job Description Tips - Help on formatting a Bridge Operator Job Specification

When creating your bespoke description and advert, you should cover and promote these points:

Job title: This should accurately reflect the role and include keywords that top talent might be using to search for jobs.

Job duties: The day to day duties, such as administrative tasks, which vary depending on the company and inform the candidate if they can complete the role.

Technical skills: These are the hard skills required through training, such as proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Soft skills: These include the interpersonal skills and general abilities the right candidates will possess. For example, the competency to prioritise multiple tasks, handle customer queries and customer complaints, work alone, or build a good relationship with coworkers.

The company's culture: Highlighting your company culture and values ensures employees thrive and find outstanding job satisfaction. Candidates that are not the right fit won’t waste their time completing the application process, meaning you can focus on qualified individuals and hire in a more timely manner.

Career progression: Including the career path will entice candidates looking for career growth. 

Training and development programs: Smaller companies may need employees with previous experience or provide educational assistance over internal training offered by larger organisations with more significant resources. 

Employee benefits: Compensation and benefits often fail to appear in job ads and while you may want to hold your cards close to your chest, failing to include them is a mistake. Consider answering common questions, such as working hours and paid leave. Researching the average salary for the role in these early stages will ensure you don’t waste your interviewer’s and the candidate’s time.

Skill gaps: Your company may need to bring in new skills beyond those required to complete the key role and duties. Thinking on an organisational level can be beneficial when contemplating skills diversity.

Legal requirements: Ensure your job advert and description does not ask for inappropriate or discriminatory personal details, such as age, marital status, or religion.

How to Hire a Bridge Operator

Once you have selected your Job Description download it or convert it to a Job Advert. From here you can post/advertise your job across our network of job boards. If you wish to use the job description for a CV Template click through for advice and Convert to a CV

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