Bridge and Lock Tenders
Bridge and lock tenders operate and maintain structures that control water passage on inland waterways, coastal areas, and shipping channels. They manage drawbridges, canal locks, and lighthouses, opening and closing gates or raising bridges to allow ships and boats through. Work takes place at waterway facilities, often involving shifts that cover extended hours.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against bridge and lock tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves monitoring water levels, operating control systems, and communicating with vessel operators about passage times. Tenders perform routine maintenance on machinery and equipment, keep detailed logs of operations, and inspect locks or bridges for damage. They may respond to emergency situations requiring quick action. Duties vary by location and season, with busier periods during peak shipping times.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCE. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer hands-on work with clear procedures and practical problem-solving. You're detail-oriented, follow established systems reliably, and work well independently or as part of a small team. You're comfortable with mechanical equipment and don't mind outdoor work in varied weather conditions.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $71,720 | $78,020 | $78,020 | 50 |
| Mississippi | $66,830 | $74,730 | $74,730 | 50 |
| Minnesota | $69,200 | $74,420 | $77,710 | 60 |
| Missouri | $66,580 | $74,110 | $74,480 | 40 |
| California | $52,800 | $72,390 | $79,150 | 80 |
| Illinois | $64,640 | $70,890 | $74,110 | 290 |
| Iowa | $66,410 | $70,890 | $74,110 | 50 |
| Pennsylvania | $66,440 | $68,810 | $72,920 | 110 |
| Alabama | $60,420 | $66,830 | $74,730 | 70 |
| West Virginia | $65,460 | $65,460 | $69,620 | 60 |
| Indiana | $48,440 | $60,780 | $68,100 | 60 |
| Tennessee | $49,900 | $60,420 | $65,060 | 60 |
All 23 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Coating Inspector Program - Bridge Specialty — The Association for Materials Protection and Performance
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against bridge and lock tenders and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 53-6011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.