FAQ
Bridge Tender FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a bridge tender.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a bridge tender: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about bridge tenders
Who hires bridge tenders?
State DOTs, cities and the Army Corps of Engineers.
Do I need a degree?
No.
Is the job declining?
BLS projects slight decline.
How much does a bridge tender make?
The median annual wage for bridge tenders was $57,700 ($27.74 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $28,090 and the highest 10% earned more than $75,360.
How long does it take to become a bridge tender?
Most people need about A few weeks of training of training. A high school diploma and short-term on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a bridge tender?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is bridge tender a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -2.3% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 300 openings each year. Upsides include public sector benefits; a common challenge is that isolation.
What skills does a bridge tender need?
Key technical skills include bridge controls, lock operation, marine radio, and traffic control. Employers also value attention, reliability, and calm.
What certifications are available for bridge tenders?
Common credentials include Agency training, Marine radio training, First aid, and Clean background. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Bridge Tender fit quiz, compare with Ship Captain, or explore Bridge Tender training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 53-6011 (Bridge and lock tenders).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Bridge and lock tenders (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.