53-6011.00 Bridge and Lock Tenders- 198 Bridge and lock tenders help commercial and pleasure boats navigate inland waterways. Many boats are too tall to pass underneath certain bridges. It’s the bridge tender’s responsibility to go through the procedures and operate the machinery needed to safely open the bridge. This involves stopping traffic on the land, as well. Once the boat has passed through, the tender closes the bridge, making sure to correctly lock it back in place. The tender then allows traffic over the bridge to resume. Locks are used in canals to raise or lower water levels to enable boats to travel through areas of unequal elevation. Opening and closing the gates…as well as controlling the pumps…is the job of Lock Tenders. Bridge and lock tenders need to be conscientious dependable workers. They must be able to follow written instructions and read manuals. Tenders might be required to do maintenance and simple repairs. Applicants should have a high school diploma or GED. Most employers look for additional experience in electrical or mechanical machinery, and familiarity with a variety of hand and power tools. Knowledge of boats is a big plus. Most tenders are government employees. Depending on boat traffic patterns, the work can be full-time or seasonal. It can also be lonely…and require working outdoors in all kinds of weather. Although it’s not a glamorous job, a bridge or lock tender is a vital link in America’s important transportation system.