Bridge Inspector

What We Are Looking For:

We are looking for a highly motivated and versatile individual to join our bridge inspection staff in our Austin, TX office. This position will focus on bridge inspections performed in accordance with FHWA’s National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) for our state DOT and local bridge owner clients, as well as in-depth bridge evaluation and preservation projects. Tasks will include preparation for field inspections, field inspections, documentation of bridge conditions, interpretation of field and client-provided data, and report writing. Tasks may also include supporting BDI’s diagnostic testing, structural monitoring, and nondestructive evaluation field and engineering services. Candidates with an engineering background may also support bridge load rating and structural analysis. The position offers a mix of hands-on field work and office-based reporting, so you will see the structures you inspect firsthand, apply what you learn in the field to your evaluations, and build a well-rounded skill set in bridge inspection. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a growth-oriented professional consulting group where you will work with and be mentored by senior technical staff and licensed Professional Engineers across the full life cycle of bridge evaluation.

What You’ll Do:

Bridge Inspection

• Assist in routine NBIS and the Specifications for the National Bridge Inventory (SNBI)
• Document component ratings, element condition states, and findings; prepare inspection reports and update owner web-based reporting systems
• Perform field work from ground level, ladders, hydraulic access equipment (e.g., UBIT), or using rope access techniques

General

• Coordinate with project managers, senior engineers, and clients on schedules, logistics, and deliverables
• Update internal documentation upon project completion and share lessons learned with the team
• Work in a variety of conditions including working at heights, overnight shifts, and in all types of weather
• Perform other duties as assigned

For candidates with an Engineering Background – Load Rating and Structural Analysis

• In-depth, Nonredundant Steel Tension Member (NSTM), damage, and special inspections in accordance with NBIS and the Specifications for the National Bridge Inventory (SNBI)
• Develop AASHTOWare Bridge Rating models and load ratings in accordance with the AASHTO Manual for Bridge Evaluation (MBE), owner load rating manuals, and client specifications
• Compute member capacities and rating factors using LRFR, LFR, and ASR methods, including legal, permit, and emergency vehicle loads
• Incorporate section loss, deterioration, and damage documented during inspection into load ratings
• Develop finite element models for refined analysis, model calibration, and load rating of complex or non-standard structures
• Support the evaluation of load posting needs and critical findings under the direction of a licensed Professional Engineer
• Prepare load rating reports, summary sheets, and submittal documentation to the quality of submitting to a client
• Support in-depth structural evaluations of deteriorated or damaged bridges, including investigation of the causes of distress
• Assist in developing repair, rehabilitation, and preservation recommendations, with supporting calculations, details, and cost estimates as appropriate to your qualifications
• Prepare technical memoranda and reports summarizing findings and recommendations for bridge owners

Skills You Will Develop:

• Bridge inspection in accordance with NBIS and SNBI, including element-level condition assessment
• A practical understanding of structural behavior and how concrete and steel bridges deteriorate in service
• Technical writing and communication with clients, bridge owners, and project teams
• Safe field practices, including use of access equipment and hand and power tools
• For candidates with an engineering background
• Application of the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications, the Manual for Bridge Evaluation, and state DOT load rating guidance
• Load rating with AASHTOWare Bridge Rating and refined analysis using finite element software
• Programming and scripting (Python, MATLAB, VBA, or similar) to streamline analysis and data processing

You Are:

• Excited by solving challenging problems and aren’t afraid to think outside the box
• A natural self-starter who prides themselves on delivering quality products
• Flexible and have the ability to adapt to different work on a variety of projects, in both the office and the field
• Ready to develop personally and professionally with a growing company
• Comfortable working at heights (200+ feet)
• Detail oriented and organized

Qualifications:

• 1–3 years of experience in bridge inspection
• Successful completion of NHI’s Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges course (FHWA-NHI-130055), or an FHWA-approved equivalent comprehensive bridge inspection training course, required
• Proficient with Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel
• Willingness to travel (up to 75%), including overnight to conduct field work
• Able to work schedules which may extend the typical workweek or work hours according to project specific requirements
• Able to lift at least 50 lbs and have stamina for moderate physical activity
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
• For candidates with an engineering background
• Bachelor’s degree in civil or structural engineering from an ABET-accredited program
• EIT/EI certification and the ability to support bridge load rating and structural analysis
• Bridge load rating or structural analysis experience is a plus

Benefits and Compensation:

Starting Salary Range: $50,000 - $80,000 per year, dependent on experience We offer a comprehensive, industry-leading compensation and benefits package designed to support your personal and professional well-being:

• Paid time off and paid holidays
• 401(k) with company match: 100% match on contributions up to 3%, plus 50% match on contributions up to 5%
• Competitive medical insurance coverage with generous employer contributions
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer funding
• Company-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurances
• Optional dental, vision, hospital, critical illness, accident, and pet insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

BDI provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.