BRIDGE SPAN OPERATOR SENIOR 63142

06/01/92 G

This is the second class in the Bridge Span Operator series. Positions in this class operate manual and automated controls to open and close double bridge spans on primary and interstate highway systems with multiple traffic lanes and dense vehicular traffic. Positions operate bridge spans at a distance from both water and vehicle traffic, and where transportation barges, container cargo carriers and navy vessels regularly travel. Positions also may operate single swing span bridges and have full supervisory authority for a crew of Bridge Span Operators. This class is distinguished from the Bridge Span Operator class by its assignment to double spanned bridges where controls are at a distance from the water and vehicle traffic or by required supervision of Bridge Span Operators.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of moderate difficulty by applying independent judgment in operating manual and automated controls to open and close double or single movable bridge spans which are elevated at a considerable height from the water in order to allow passage of marine traffic. Receives and answers navigation signals from approaching transport barges, container cargo carriers, and navy vessels; identifies type and size of vessels to estimate proper time to control vehicular traffic and open span(s); activates lights, sirens, barrier gates or other signals to stop on-coming vehicular traffic on the bridge. Opens and closes span(s) 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 to the need for assistance by telephone or two-way radio. Periodically operates and maintains large diesel powered emergency electrical generators. 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. May monitor closed circuit television units for traffic control purposes.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor; however, some positions may supervise, evaluate and train Bridge Span Operators.

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

Scope: Facilitate passage of transportation barges, container cargo carriers, navy vessels and vehicular traffic on bridge spans.

Impact of Actions: Positions are assigned to bridge structures which requires attention to safety issues and operations of the span to facilitate the passage of transport barges, container cargo carriers and navy 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 vessel captains, U.S. Coast Guard and emergency services personnel to transmit information; and with the public to transmit or clarify information.

Knowledge: Working knowledge of bridge span operations; agency rules and procedures governing opening and closing of double bridge spans; traffic control procedures for vehicles; electrical and mechanical repair techniques; of two-way radio communication techniques; and 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 regulation; post data to logs; write incident reports; work at heights to include climbing over and through bridge structure; and to perform routine maintenance as required.

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 classification study, replaces the Bridge span Operator class and some positions in the Bridge Tender B class, effective June 1992.