Bridge Operator - Dam and Lock Operator

Job Overview

Bridge Operator I – Dam and Lock Operator I (260002RA). Apply to either Amelia Earhart Dam or New Charles River Dam. Four positions.

Operating dams and equipment to control water elevations, maintain dam and navigation infrastructure, control water levels and boat traffic, ensuring safe passage for vessels while protecting public safety.

• Operate hydraulic, electric, and mechanical equipment to manage navigation locks, water levels, movable bridges, traffic gates, and pumps.
• Determine the order and number of vessels passing through locks to ensure the safety of crews and vessels.
• Use public address system, flags, marine radio equipment, and video equipment to monitor and control boat, pedestrian, and vehicular traffic.
• Coordinate with vessel operators, Coast Guard personnel, harbormasters, public safety staff, agency personnel, and the public.
• Monitor water levels and manipulate them by pumping or releasing water through operating sluice gates to maintain safe, predetermined levels.
• Maintain operational logs documenting weather conditions, water levels, vessel identification information, work performed, and any equipment issues or unusual system and facility activity.
• Operate valves, locks, movable bridges and traffic gates at locks and bridges using electrical control panels; raise and lower lock water levels by starting and stopping pumps, opening and closing valves; and open and close lock gates to allow boat passage.
• Perform minor mechanical and electrical repairs and routine maintenance on lock and bridge equipment; replace small parts, bulbs, and fuses; lubricate mechanical components; use backup manual controls or temporary lighting when equipment malfunctions; and report or recommend major repairs when necessary.
• Perform security checks of the area to prevent unauthorized activity.
• Respond to emergency situations such as boat and car accidents, fires, etc.
• Determine seaworthiness of vessels before allowing or denying passage.
• Perform related duties such as cleaning locks and operator's house by sweeping, picking up litter, washing windows, cleaning furniture, etc.; loading and unloading equipment and/or supplies; requisitioning supplies and equipment; operating snow blower; and administering first aid in emergencies.
• Work varied shifts, weekends, holidays, nights, and on standby/on‑call work status.

• Skill in using small hand tools such as wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, chisels, and hammers.
• Ability to use a modern personal computer system including reading and writing e‑mail, drafting reports, taking online training, entering work hours, etc.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
• Ability to read, write, and comprehend the English language.
• Ability to adjust to changing situations to meet emergencies or changing conditions, maintain a calm manner in stressful and emergency situations, and exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to work varied shifts, weekends, holidays, nights, and on standby (on‑call) work status.
• Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with others.
• Ability to maintain accurate records.
• Physical stamina and endurance; must be able to stand for long periods of time and lift and carry heavy objects in excess of fifty pounds.
• Mechanical aptitude.

None.

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package.

Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.

• Primary location: (not specified)
• Job:
  Equipment, Facilities & Services
• Agency:
  Department of Conservation & Recreation
• Schedule:
  
  Full‑time
• Shift: Day
• Number of openings: 4
• Salary range: 46,128.42 – 59,830.42 Yearly
• Bargaining unit: 02‑AFSCME – Service/Institutional
• Potentially eligible for a hybrid work schedule:
  No