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Alabama Department of Labor

Labor Market Information Division
SOC: 53-6011 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. Include drawbridge operators, lock tenders and operators, and slip bridge operators.
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Education: Some of these occupations may require a high school diploma or GED certificate.
OJT: Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few days to a few months of training. Usually, an experienced worker could show you how to do the job.
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 utilization 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. Log data such as water levels and weather conditions. Write and submit maintenance work requisitions. Perform maintenance duties such as sweeping, painting, and yard work to keep facilities clean and in order.
License: License not required.
Outlook: No Change
Alabama Employment Outlook
Comprehensive wage data available: Alabama Occupational Wage Survey
Alabama Projections
Estimated Employment 2016Projected Employment 2026Annual Average OpeningsAnnual Growth Rate
N/AN/A10 
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No postsecondary schools reported programs.
Occupational Videos
53-6011.00 Bridge and Lock Tenders