Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Bridge Tender
What bridge tenders actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a bridge tender?
Shift handoff. From there, the day usually includes open and close bridges, stop traffic, and operate locks. Shifts cover 24/7 operations.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a bridge tender working full time.
- Shift handoff.
- Inspect controls.
- Open for a barge.
- Close and clear traffic.
- Lock a pleasure boat through.
- Log openings.
- Hand off.
Where bridge tenders work
Tenders work in bridge houses and lock control rooms.
Hours and schedule
Shifts cover 24/7 operations.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Open and close bridges
- Stop traffic
- Operate locks
- Communicate with vessels
- Inspect equipment
- Keep logs
- Report problems
Tools you’ll use every day
- Bridge control panels
- Traffic gates
- VHF radios
- Cameras
- Lock gates
- Logbooks
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Public sector benefits
- Short training
- Quiet periods
- Unique job
What’s hard
- Isolation
- Shift work
- Slight decline
- Responsibility for safety
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like quiet work
- I pay attention
- I can work shifts
- I like boats
- I want public benefits
- I want short training
Not sure? Take the free Bridge Tender fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Confirm spans are clear
- Lower gates before opening
- Follow lockout/tagout
- Communicate clearly