Bridge Operator

Bridge Operators are responsible for the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of Duluth's Aerial Lift Bridge and Minnesota Slip Pedestrian Bridge. This position requires working a rotating shift schedule, which includes nights, weekends, and holidays to ensure continuous operation.

At this time we are establishing an eligible list for this classification and anticipate filling vacancies at either the Bridge Operator or Bridge Operator - Electrical level. If you would like to be considered for both classifications, you must apply to each job posting.

To ensure safe passage of ships, pedestrians, and motorists by operating and maintaining lift bridges and related equipment.

• Operate the Aerial Lift Bridge.
• Operate gates, pedestrian barriers, traffic control signals, and warning devices, clear vehicle and/or pedestrian traffic from the spans, operate controls to raise and lower the spans, and monitor their correct sequence of operation.
• Operate support equipment including radar, marine radios, weather instruments, telephone, intercoms, scanners, closed circuit television, loudspeaker system, intrusion alarms, and malfunction indicators.
• Correspond with ships by watching and listening for their audible signals, and by sending audible, visual, and/or radio signals in response.
• Knowledge of how to operate the Minnesota Slip Pedestrian Bridge.
• Perform maintenance on the Aerial Lift Bridge and the Minnesota Slip Pedestrian Bridge.
• Greasing and oiling of gear reducers, bearings, gears, cables, and guides.
• Perform minor repairs to communication equipment, radar antennae, closed circuit TV systems, and power supplies.
• Maintain approaches, sidewalks, and decks so that they are free from ice, snow, and other safety hazards.
• Cleaning and other custodial activities to include painting, cleaning, and maintenance of the control room, machinery rooms, generator room, shops, and storage areas.
• Assist with the replacement of steel operating cables, electric cables, counterweight guides, roadway gates, walks, and other mechanical devices.
• Assist with troubleshooting of computer-controlled AC and DC electric drive systems, and associated electrical equipment: batteries, motors, brakes, transformers, relays, etc., using test equipment and technical schematics and manuals.
• Test and maintain diesel and natural gas power plants which supply auxiliary power.
• Inspect, adjust, and maintain a variety of electrical systems, equipment, and wiring.
• Inspect and adjust a variety of mechanical equipment.
• Attend specialized training to upgrade knowledge necessary for effective job performance.
• Be an effective team member by exhibiting self-motivation, supporting other employees in handling tasks, interacting effectively and respectfully with others, showing a desire to contribute to the team effort, accepting assignments willingly, and completing tasks within agreed upon timelines.
• Other duties may be assigned.

• A. A minimum of one (1) year specialized electrical training, plus two (2) years of experience working with large electrically operated machinery; OR three (3) years of experience working with complex mechanized equipment; OR one (1) year of experience working with computer-controlled electrical equipment; OR a minimum of three (3) years of related education and/or full-time, verifiable professional experience to include electrically operated, complex mechanized, or computer-controlled equipment as a primary responsibility.
• B. An alternative education or experience path can be considered if the candidate has a strong background in one of the following areas: a. Extensive knowledge of electrical systems used in bridge operation; b. Hands‑on experience with automated control platforms; c. Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex mechanical/electrical issues.

A. Electrical license preferred.

Education/Experience Review (100% of scoring process; 70 pass point): Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be rated based on the type (relatedness) and extent of their education and experience as documented on their application and/or supplemental questionnaire. Applicants who pass this exam will have their names placed on an eligible list for this classification.