Bridge and Lock Tenders

Check that bridges are clear of vehicles and pedestrians prior to opening.

Move levers to activate traffic signals, navigation lights, and alarms.

Turn valves to increase or decrease water levels in locks.

Stop automobile and pedestrian traffic on bridges, and lower automobile gates prior to moving bridges.

Record names, types, and destinations of vessels passing through bridge openings or locks, and numbers of trains or vehicles crossing bridges.

Raise drawbridges and observe passage of water traffic or lower drawbridges and raise automobile gates.

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.

Operate lighthouses to assist marine passage near shores and dangerous waters.

Maintain and guard stations in bridges to check waterways for boat traffic.

Add and remove balance weights to bridge mechanisms as necessary.

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.

Attach ropes or cable lines to bitts on lock decks or wharfs to secure vessels.

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.