Bridge Operator

Position Description

Vision: Seattle is a thriving and equitable community powered by dependable transportation.

Mission: To deliver a transportation system that provides safe and affordable access to places and opportunities.

At the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), we are recognized across the country for our efforts in combining different modes of transportation to make travel easier and more convenient. As our city grows quickly, we're always thinking about how to make transportation more accessible, safe, affordable, and reliable for people who live, work, and visit Seattle. We're passionate about creating an equitable, sustainable, and vibrant city for everyone.

We have important jobs to do at SDOT. We look after the city's transportation network, add more bicycle and pedestrian paths, take care of over 240 bridges, and help people get better access to the regional transit system. We're a team of nearly 1,200 hardworking people, ready to serve Seattle's public transportation needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, no matter the weather.

SDOT is seeking a Bridge Operator to help keep Seattle moving! We are looking for self-motivated, detail-oriented individuals to operate Seattle's five moveable bridges. The Bridge Operator operates a moveable bridge, maintains a lookout for boats, and safely raises and lowers the bridge upon a signal from marine traffic. The Bridge Operator also performs related inspections and routine maintenance duties, reports on the bridge status, and keeps records of work activities.

Job Responsibilities

• Raises and lowers a moveable bridge or bridges on a designated shift to allow passage in accordance with conditions established by Federal and City rules and regulations.
• Maintains an operations log and prepares reports relative to operations.
• Cleans, lubricates and makes minor repairs to operating equipment.
• Inspects bridge for deterioration, damage, and electro/mechanical defects, and notifies proper authorities in case of failure in any bridge machinery.
• Coordinates bridge operations with work crews and other personnel to ensure safety during construction activities.
• Monitors a VHF marine radio to maintain a watch of the waterway.
• Investigates auto or vessel accidents occurring on the bridge; inspects damage to the bridge, contacts proper authorities, and prepares accident reports; assists motorists with disabled vehicles.
• Performs custodial duties such as washing windows, cleaning, and waxing floors.
• Promotes equity, diversity, and race and social justice at SDOT.
  
  

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Experience

• One (1) year of experience in electrical or mechanical work.
  
  

OR: An equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the position duties.

Though not requirements, strong candidates will have some of the following experience or are able to describe comparable experience:

• Ability to diagnose operational problems in electronic and electrical equipment used in City bridges and take corrective action.
• Working knowledge of the operation and maintenance of electrical current control and regulation devices, and specialized knowledge of the operation and repair of electrically operated bascule bridge equipment.
• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and Microsoft Outlook.
• Ability to effectively work in a multi-cultural workplace with a diverse customer base.
  
  

Other Requirements:

Licenses

• Current Washington State driver’s license.
  
  

Work Environment / Physical Demands

• Regularly works alone in a confined space, exposed to a high noise level from traffic; incumbent confined to workstation during assigned shift.
• Works around rotating machinery and high-voltage equipment.
• Handles chemicals, solvents, and hazardous, toxic and flammable materials.
• Lifts object weighing up to fifty pounds.
• Must work holidays, weekends, and varying shifts.
  
  

Additional Information

Your application will not be reviewed if these items are missing or incomplete.

Hiring Process

Applications are reviewed after the posting closes. Qualified candidates must submit the following to be considered:

• Completed NEOGOV online application.
• Supplemental questionnaire responses.
• Current résumé indicating relevant experience and education.
  
  

The full salary range for this position is $37.20 - $40.12 per hour.

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans.