The Town of Falmouth welcomes applications for a part-time Seasonal Bridge Tender to operate the iconic Woods Hole drawbridge, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Woods Hole. Bridge Tenders play a vital role in safely coordinating boat and vehicle traffic across the Water Street channel connecting Eel Pond and Great Harbor, while serving as ambassadors for one of Cape Cod’s busiest waterfront communities.
This is a unique opportunity for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, interacting with residents and visitors, and performing meaningful public service in a busy waterfront setting bustling with vessels, pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and tourists.
The part-time Seasonal Bridge Tender position reports to the Department of Public Works (DPW) Highway Division and works a flexible seasonal schedule that supports drawbridge operations during the boating season:
This is a part-time, seasonal, non-benefited, non-union, non-exempt position that is paid by the hour for hours worked.
Under the general direction of the Highway Superintendent and the full-time Bridge Tender, the part-time Seasonal Bridge Tender performs responsible work operating the drawbridge and coordinating the safe movement of boat and vehicle traffic across the Water Street channel connecting Eel Pond to Great Harbor. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Located in the heart of Woods Hole, the Bridge Tender's shack is a familiar landmark and a popular stop for residents and visitors. Bridge Tenders are an important part of the Woods Hole waterfront community and help ensure the safe and efficient movement of both marine and vehicle traffic throughout the boating season.
Minimum Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent and one (1) year of experience involving public interaction, traffic control, equipment operation, public works, boating, transportation, facilities operations, or a related field preferred; or any equivalent combination of education, training, or experience that demonstrates possession of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the essential functions of the position.
Must have a valid Massachusetts Class D Driver's License and be able to pass a pre-employment CORI background check.
The Town provides on-the-job training regarding bridge operations, safety procedures, and applicable operating regulations.
The successful candidate is dependable, safety-conscious, courteous, attentive, and able to remain calm while working independently in a busy public setting. Candidates must exercise sound judgment, communicate effectively with the public, operate equipment safely, and maintain positive working relationships with coworkers, residents, visitors, and boaters.
Anticipated Starting Hourly Rate: Step 1 ($19.75/hour) - Step 7 ($24.98/hour)*, commensurate with qualifications and experience, with eligibility for annual advancement along the 7-step pay scale.
- Rates effective the first full pay period of July 2026 for FY27.
Preference Date to Apply: Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the position will remain posted until the position has been filled.
About the Town of Falmouth as an Employer: The Town of Falmouth is a people-centered municipality committed to public service excellence. We strive to foster an inclusive and supportive work culture grounded in professionalism, collaboration, and accountability, and we invest in our employees through ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates. The Town offers competitive compensation , and benefit-eligible positions offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance and other valuable benefits , and include participation in the Town's pension plan . All applicants must be able to interact and work effectively and respectfully with individuals and groups of various abilities, cultures, backgrounds, ages, and identities.
