Bridge Engineer

Job Summary :

The Structural Bridge Inspection Engineer is responsible for inspecting, assessing, and maintaining the structural integrity of bridges and other transportation infrastructure. This role involves performing detailed inspections, identifying structural issues, and providing recommendations for repairs or upgrades. The engineer ensures that bridges comply with safety standards and regulatory requirements, and that any maintenance work is planned and executed efficiently.

Key Responsibilities :

• Bridge Inspections :
• Conduct routine and detailed inspections of bridges to assess structural condition, identify signs of deterioration, wear, or damage.
• Perform visual and physical assessments of various bridge components, including decks, substructures, superstructures, and foundations.
• Utilize specialized inspection tools, such as drones, non-destructive testing (NDT), and ultrasonic testing equipment, to detect hidden or internal damage.
• Examine aspects like load-bearing capacity, stability, and potential safety hazards.
• Condition Assessment & Reporting :
• Document findings in inspection reports, including photographs, measurements, and detailed descriptions of defects or deficiencies.
• Assess the severity of detected issues and prioritize necessary repairs or maintenance actions based on safety and structural integrity.
• Prepare and present clear, concise reports for stakeholders, including recommendations for further investigation or immediate action.
• Evaluate bridge service life and predict future maintenance needs based on inspection results.
• Bridge Maintenance Planning :
• Work with maintenance teams and contractors to plan necessary repairs or rehabilitation projects based on inspection findings.
• Provide technical recommendations for remedial measures or design modifications to ensure long-term safety and usability.
• Assist in the development of preventive maintenance schedules to extend the lifespan of bridge structures.
• Compliance & Standards :
• Ensure that all inspections comply with local, state, and federal standards and regulations (e.g., FHWA, AASHTO, Eurocode).
• Stay current on industry best practices, emerging technologies in bridge inspection, and evolving safety regulations.
• Support the preparation and submission of compliance documentation for government agencies or regulatory bodies.
• Collaboration :
• Work closely with structural engineers, project managers, and contractors to discuss inspection findings and recommend appropriate actions.
• Collaborate with government agencies, municipalities, and other stakeholders to ensure coordination of inspections and subsequent maintenance activities.
• Assist in the review of bridge inspection data and advise on prioritization of bridge repairs or replacements.
• Technology & Innovation :
• Use advanced bridge inspection technologies such as laser scanning, drones, and automated systems to improve the accuracy and efficiency of inspections.
• Recommend innovative solutions for bridge inspection processes, including improvements in data collection and analysis.
• Training & Mentorship :
• Mentor junior engineers and inspectors, providing guidance on best practices for bridge inspection and safety procedures.
• Conduct training sessions for field staff on proper inspection techniques, safety protocols, and new technologies.

Required Skills and Qualifications :

• Education :
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or related field. A Master’s degree is an advantage.
• Licensing & Certification :
• Professional Engineer (PE) license is required or in progress.
• Certification in Bridge Inspection (e.g., National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) certification) is highly preferred.
• Other relevant certifications in structural or bridge inspection (e.g., NDT certification) are advantageous.
• Experience :
• Minimum (3) years of experience in bridge inspection, structural engineering, or related field.
• Experience with bridge inspection processes and standards (e.g., NBIS, FHWA).
• Hands-on experience with inspection tools and technologies such as drones, ultrasonic testing, and other NDT methods.
• Experience with MDOT, VDOT, DDOT
• Technical Skills :
• Strong knowledge of bridge structures and their components (e.g., decks, beams, piers, abutments).
• Proficiency in using bridge inspection software for data collection, analysis, and report generation.
• Familiarity with relevant codes and regulations (e.g., AASHTO, Eurocodes, local guidelines).
• Communication Skills :
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to write detailed, accurate inspection reports and communicate findings effectively to clients, stakeholders, and regulatory agencies.
• Ability to explain technical concepts in a clear and accessible manner to non-engineers.
• Problem-Solving Skills :
• Ability to assess complex structural issues and provide practical solutions or recommendations for maintenance, repair, or replacement.

Preferred Qualifications :

• Experience with advanced bridge inspection technologies (e.g., laser scanning, drones).
• Expertise in structural analysis and the ability to interpret inspection data to predict future performance.
• Knowledge of geotechnical engineering as it relates to foundation assessments.
• Ability to assess and prioritize risks related to bridge safety.