Will “Bridge Operator” be Replaced By Robots? 🤔

97% Chance of Automation

“Bridge Operator” will almost certainly be replaced by robots.

This job is ranked #644 out of #702. A higher ranking (i.e., a lower number) means the job is less likely to be replaced.

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Job Description

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. Includes drawbridge operators, lock operators, and slip bridge operators.

Job Details

The SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) code is 53-6011.00
The Mean Annual Wage in the U.S. is $ 46,680.00
The Mean Hourly Wage is $ 22.00
Currently, there are 3,510 people on this job

☝️ Information based on the reference occupation “Bridge and Lock Tenders”.

Also Known As…

Tasks for “Bridge Operator”

Turn valves to increase or decrease water levels in locks.
Add and remove balance weights to bridge mechanisms as necessary.
Observe approaching vessels to determine size and speed, and listen for whistle signals indicating desire to pass.
Write and submit maintenance work requisitions.
Record names, types, and destinations of vessels passing through bridge openings or locks, and numbers of trains or vehicles crossing bridges.
Inspect canal and bridge equipment, and areas such as roadbeds for damage or defects, reporting problems to supervisors as necessary.
Raise drawbridges and observe passage of water traffic, then lower drawbridges and raise automobile gates.
Maintain and guard stations in bridges to check waterways for boat traffic.
Stop automobile and pedestrian traffic on bridges, and lower automobile gates prior to moving bridges.
Prepare accident reports.
Attach ropes or cable lines to bitts on lock decks or wharfs to secure vessels.
Observe position and progress of vessels to ensure best utilization of lock spaces or bridge opening spaces.
Operate lighthouses to assist marine passage near shores and dangerous waters.
Control machinery to open and close canal locks and dams, railroad or highway drawbridges, or horizontally or vertically adjustable bridges.
Clean and lubricate equipment, and make minor repairs and adjustments.
Direct movements of vessels in locks or bridge areas, using signals, telecommunication equipment, or loudspeakers.
Log data such as water levels and weather conditions.
Move levers to activate traffic signals, navigation lights, and alarms.
Check that bridges are clear of vehicles and pedestrians prior to opening.
Perform maintenance duties such as sweeping, painting, and yard work to keep facilities clean and in order.

Related Technology & Tools

X ray scanners
Surveillance binoculars
Traffic directional cones
Warning horns
Putty knives
Gas powered snow blowers
Hand trucks
Electric drawbridges
Navigation lights
Radar systems
Gas powered generators
Desktop computers
Signal flags
Balance weights
Mobile radios
Smoke detectors
Safety-toe boots
Cable lines
Wire ropes
Gas detectors
Protective glasses
Traffic gates
Grease dispensing guns
Loudspeaker warning system
Snow plows
Megaphones
Warning sirens
Sump pumps
Closed circuit television CCTV monitoring systems
Signal bells
Life jackets
Bitts
Motor vehicles
Signal flares
Safety gloves
Television monitors
Laser facsimile machines
Hard hats
Wire cutting tools
Fall protection equipment
Step ladders
Weather monitoring instruments
Lawn mowers
Intrusion alarms
Span lights
Adjustable wrenches
Bridge traffic signals
Very high frequency VHF radiotelephones
Spot lights
Hearing protectors

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