On “indeed,” the online job site, I found I’m not qualified to be a baker because I can’t lift 50 pounds up and down stairs all day, a theater coach for 2 to 6 year-olds because I lack a teaching certificate, or a parrot caretaker as I have no experience with the birds.
But I met most of the criteria for another job…
- I have a valid driver’s license
- I’m reliable
- I’m self-motivated
- I can travel throughout West Virginia (except for the bridges)
- I’m available full-time
- I’d pass the hair follicle drug screen
The only apparent qualification I lack is 1 year of experience. But I don’t possess the fortitude to be a Bridge Painter.
While compensation is irrelevant, the job happens to pay $16-$18 per hour plus lodging and a per diem.
I was taking a look at bridge painter jobs because I had mentioned them in my last post. It was a flip response I might make to someone who says to someone like me as they cross a bridge, “How would you like to work on this bridge?”
Brooklyn Bridge Painters 12/13/1915. Public domain photo via Wikimedia Commons.
This job and a couple of others like it didn’t mention being comfortable with heights or being able to dangle over water and ravines. But I’m the kind of person who often needs things spelled out. Fifty-four people have applied for this job during the 12 days it’s been posted.
Another similar job let potential applicants know the specifics upfront. Employees would be working on “elevated structures including water towers, cell towers, bridges, amusement rides, stadiums.” It creates a visual that separates the men from the boys. Rope Access Technician Painters are what they’re called. The incentive package is similar to the other painting job but with this enticement…
“This [job] is a great way to add hours to your logbook as we do 40-60 hours a week hanging on a rope.”
No one has applied in the 30 plus days it’s been listed.
Maybe Bridge Painting Inspection is the way to go. I was thinking drones or some other technology would do some of the dangerous work but maybe not. In the Federal Highway Administration Field Manual for Bridge Painting Inspection if you’re working at a height of 6’ or more …
“you must wear a safety harness which is preferred over traditional belts because they can spread the shock of the fall more evenly over your body.”
Good to know…even though I’m really not qualified.
Gephyrophobiac 