Bridge Engineer 3 (In-Training) – Under Bridge Inspection Truck Operator/Co-Inspector

State of Washington • Thurston County – Tumwater, WA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Bridge & Structures Office is hiring a Bridge Engineer 3 to serve as an Under Bridge Inspection Truck (UBIT) operator and co-inspector in Tumwater, Washington. The role supports federally mandated inspections and the safety and reliability of bridges on the state highway system. It involves operating specialized inspection equipment, assisting with close-up inspections, performing non-destructive testing, maintaining equipment, and training staff. At the Bridge Engineer 3 level, the position also helps lead UBIT inspection planning and serves as an experienced co-inspector.

This is an in-training position with on-the-job training and a career path to Bridge Engineer 3. Candidates may be considered at the Bridge Engineer 1, 2, or 3 level according to their qualifications. The position is not eligible for remote work and requires frequent overnight travel. Work may involve heights exceeding 100 feet, confined spaces, waterways, outdoor inclement weather, and uneven terrain. The position includes standby or on-call emergency response as required and is subject to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration drug and alcohol testing requirements. An additional 10% assignment pay applies to the specified UBIT operating or backup operator duties when performed for at least four hours per working day.

The listed annual salary ranges are $66,072–$88,788 for Bridge Engineer 1, $72,900–$98,064 for Bridge Engineer 2, and $80,496–$108,228 for Bridge Engineer 3. WSDOT describes flexible work schedules, paid leave, tuition assistance, and a comprehensive benefits package. Applicants must submit a detailed work history, resume, cover letter, and contact information for at least three references.

Requirements

• For consideration at Bridge Engineer 1: effective verbal and written communication with team members; basic ability to prioritize and manage assigned tasks; ability to allocate time for assignments and request assistance promptly; and basic ability to safely operate UBITs or similar equipment.
• For consideration at Bridge Engineer 2, in addition to Bridge Engineer 1 qualifications: successful completion of an FHWA-approved comprehensive bridge inspection training; demonstrated experience as a co-inspector on routine bridge inspections; ability to safely operate bridge inspection equipment, including mobile elevated work platforms and UBITs; ability to perform basic UBIT driver-maintenance and troubleshooting with guidance, with some experience scheduling maintenance and repairs; and successful completion of Aspen Ariel UBIT Operator Certification.
• For consideration at Bridge Engineer 3, in addition to Bridge Engineer 2 qualifications: successful completion of an FHWA-approved NSTM training course; basic ability to coordinate logistics, equipment, and traffic control for scheduled inspection trips; ability to plan time for inspections, travel, and mobilization and complete final inspection reports within 90 days of each inspection; and ability to independently perform required UBIT driver-maintenance and troubleshooting.
• At any level: contribute to a respectful, inclusive, and equal-opportunity workplace; demonstrate a commitment to learning and growth; and take action to meet others’ needs.
• Hold a Class A Commercial Driver’s License without an airbrakes restriction.
• Be able to work at heights exceeding 100 feet, in confined spaces, over waterways, and on uneven terrain.
• Be able to travel overnight frequently.
• Be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Be able to participate in standby on-call emergency response assignments.
• Be able to complete a Bridge Condition Inspection Course.

Nice To Haves

• Basic knowledge of bridge components gained through bridge inspection or maintenance experience.
• Experience operating under-bridge inspection trucks, including bucket truck and UBIT driving experience.
• Familiarity with the National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS), Specifications for a National Bridge Inventory (SNBI), and WSDOT Bridge Inspection Manual.
• Familiarity with WSDOT bridge inventory data, BridgeWorks, and WSDOT bridge elements.
• Completion of Aspen Ariel UBIT Operator Certification.

Responsibilities

• Drive and operate Under Bridge Inspection Trucks and other access equipment used for close-up bridge inspections.
• Assist with in-service bridge inspections according to federal and WSDOT requirements, using technical rope access, UBITs, bucket trucks, scaffolding, and boats.
• Perform non-destructive testing, including ultrasonic, magnetic particle, and dye penetrant testing, on complex structures.
• Assist with inspection planning and preparation, assess bridge condition and serviceability, and identify needed repairs.
• Perform emergency response and participate in standby or on-call duty as required.
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and perform field repairs on UBITs.
• Train less experienced staff in UBIT operations and assist with training on other inspection equipment.
• Develop schedules for UBIT inspection trips and write equipment specifications for purchases, including UBITs and personal safety equipment.
• Schedule repairs and required maintenance for UBITs and other inspection equipment.
• Support office functions and other assignments as needed.
• At the Bridge Engineer 3 level, help lead UBIT inspection planning and serve as an experienced co-inspector.

Benefits

• Flexible work schedules.
• 12 paid holidays.
• Full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year.
• Tuition reimbursement programs and other education-expense assistance options for permanent employees.
• Government discounts at participating colleges throughout Washington.
• Eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Comprehensive benefits package with healthcare options.
• Choice of state retirement programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed