This is semi-skilled work operating an electro-mechanically operated drawbridge on an assigned shift. Employees in this class operate a control panel to open and close drawbridges upon request and control traffic flow on the bridge during bridge openings to ensure the safety of pedestrians and commuters.

Work includes changing pier navigation light bulbs located on or near the drawbridge and removing snow from the sidewalks and gates of the drawbridge gates. Work is performed under the supervision of a Drawbridge Operations Supervisor.

ALLOCATING FACTORS: (The following conditions must be met for a position to be approved for this class.)

1. The position must operate an electro-mechanically operated drawbridge on an assigned shift.
2. The position must perform the work in the Streets Department.

• Listens for signals from boats requesting the opening of the drawbridges; stops land traffic by depressing the traffic control and safety gate signals; signals and receives signals from watchman during the operation of the bridge; operates a control panel equipped with levers, break releases, center/rear locks and other safety features to open and close a drawbridge.
• Maintains logs of bridge openings, indicating the date, time, and purpose of such activities, maintenance performed, vehicular accidents and any unusual occurrences.
• Sight checks bridge mechanism for proper functioning; may lubricate gears, motors, gates, locks, and other moving parts.
• Operates controls manually, using override system when necessitated by component failure.
• Turns on pier navigation lights; replaces bulbs as necessary.
• Removes snow from around drawbridge so that traffic gates can open and close freely.
• Renders first aid, if necessary to individuals injured in accidents near the drawbridge.
• Keeps control area and tower clean.
• Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• the operational aspects of heavy electrical motors and of power-driven machinery and equipment.

ABILITY TO:

• learn the rules and regulations controlling the operation of drawbridges crossing navigable waters of the state of Pennsylvania.
• learn the fundamentals and operation of a drawbridge and the control panel.
• learn the standard practices, methods, techniques and problems involved in protecting against vandalism and disruptive and illegal actions concerning traffic flow during a drawbridge opening.
• think quickly and clearly in emergency situations.
• maintain records and prepare reports.
• understand and follow oral and written instructions.

EDUCATION:
• Education equivalent to completion of the twelfth school grade.

  EXPERIENCE:

• One year of electrical and mechanical experience operating and performing routine maintenance on heavy electrical equipment or hand and power tools.

Or any equivalent combination of training and experienced determined to be acceptable by the Personnel Department.

PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to physically perform the duties and to work in the environmental conditions required of a position in this class.

PAY RANGE: 9
Class Established: 1/1953

Latest Spec. Revision:
  CSC - 4/1997 ; Ad Board - 6/1997

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