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Transportation · Illinois

How to Become a Bridge and Lock Tenders in Illinois

Bridge and Lock Tenders in Illinois earn a median salary of $69,530/year, which is 19% above the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a bridge and lock tenders takes home approximately $3,076/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$70K
Median salary in Illinois
+19%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
290
Employed in Illinois

What a bridge and lock tenders can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$69,530
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$4,488/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home31.5% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$69,530/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,076/mo

Becoming a bridge and lock tenders in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Bridge and Lock Tenders positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many bridge and lock tenders positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Illinois licensure or certification

Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for bridge and lock tenderss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Illinois

Illinois employs 290 bridge and lock tenders. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin.

Bridge and Lock Tenders salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$70K$33.77/hr120

Bridge and Lock Tenders salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$57K
25th percentile
$63K
Median (50th)
$70K
75th percentile
$73K
90th percentile (senior)
$85K
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Bridge and Lock Tenders careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a bridge and lock tenders make in Illinois?

The median bridge and lock tenders salary in Illinois is $69,530 per year ($33.43/hr). This is 19% above the national median of $58,490. Salaries range from $56,890 to $84,860.

What are the requirements to become a bridge and lock tenders in Illinois?

Bridge and Lock Tenders positions in Illinois typically require No formal educational credential. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a bridge and lock tenders afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $69,530, a bridge and lock tenders in Illinois would take home approximately $4,488/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 31.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bridge and lock tenders in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for bridge and lock tenders in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($70,240). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Illinois have state income tax for bridge and lock tenders?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $69,530 salary, this means roughly $3,442/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.