BRIDGE SPAN OPERATOR 63141

06/01/92 G

This is the first class in the Bridge Span Operator series. Positions in this class, which are in close proximity to the waterway, operate manual and automated controls in order to open and close single swing span bridges. This class is distinguished from the Bridge Span Operator Senior by the latter's assignment to operate manual and automated controls on double or single bridge spans on primary and interstate highway systems with multiple lanes and dense vehicular traffic; bridges under which transport barges, container cargo carriers and navy vessels travel; and bridge spans which have technical electrical and mechanical systems.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of moderate difficulty by applying independent judgment in operating manual and automated controls to open and close movable bridge spans to allow passage of marine traffic. Receives and answers navigation signals from approaching small marine vessels; identifies type and size of vessels to estimate proper time to control vehicular traffic and open span; activates lights, sirens, barrier gates or other signals to stop on-coming vehicular traffic on the bridge. Opens and closes span according to standard or emergency agency procedures and in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations. Inspects, tests, and performs maintenance to equipment on a periodic basis to ensure that mechanisms operate properly. Performs minor emergency electrical and mechanical adjustments and reports the need for assistance by telephone or two-way radio. Periodically operates and maintains emergency auxiliary electrical generators. Performs routine maintenance activities such as cleaning, oiling, and greasing gears, locks, wedges, and gates; and cleans and replaces navigation and traffic lights. Makes entries to daily logs to record number of span openings and types of vessels. Reports all incidents to appropriate agency personnel and/or emergency services and completes required incident reports.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor.

Supervision Received: Receives general supervision from a Transportation Maintenance Superintendent, Transportation Residency Maintenance Manager or higher level position. Positions work independent from on-site supervision and must determine appropriate response to incidents.

Scope: Facilitate passage of marine vessels and vehicular traffic at single swing bridge spans.

Impact of Actions: Positions are assigned to bridge structures which require attention to safety issues and operations of the span to facilitate the passage of marine vessels and of vehicular traffic on the bridge; prevent hazardous conditions from occurring; and reduce agency's risk to property damage and personal injury claims.

Personal Contacts: Frequent external contact with crew aboard vessels and emergency services personnel to transmit information. Infrequent external contact with the public to transmit or clarify information.

Knowledge: Working knowledge of single swing bridge span operations; agency rules and procedures governing opening and closing bridge spans; traffic control procedures for vehicles; basic electrical and mechanical repair techniques; and of two-way radio communication techniques. Some knowledge of U.S. Coast Guard navigational rules governing the opening and closing of movable bridge spans to include signaling and lighting.

Skills: Working skill in operating single swing bridge span controls.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to read and comprehend manuals and regulations; post data to logs; write incident reports; climb over and through bridge structure; and to perform routine maintenance to electrical generators, gears, locks, wedges, and gates.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

License or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent with additional training to perform minor mechanical work.

Level and Type of Experience: Some experience in operating and performing routine maintenance to heavy duty mechanical equipment and record-keeping.

Other Considerations: Agency Bridge Equipment Operator certification is required.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class, established as a result of an agency study, replaces classes in the Bridge Tender A class and some positions in the Bridge Tender B class, effective June 1992.