Bridge Inspection Team Leader

GFT • Meriden, CT

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

GFT is seeking a Bridge Engineer/Bridge Inspection Team Leader to join our Transportation group in Meriden, CT. This role follows a hybrid work model, based out of our Meriden, CT office. Sign-on and relocation bonuses may be available based on position and eligibility. Working on the bridge team at GFT offers the opportunity to contribute to transformative projects that enhance transportation infrastructure and improve community connectivity. Whether working on highways and bridges or traffic engineering, our team excels in resilient, sustainable design and construction, delivering innovative solutions that address the complexities of modern, multimodal roadway systems and ensure safe, efficient, and reliable travel for all. As a Bridge Engineer/Bridge Inspection Team Leader, you’ll play a key role in protecting and advancing the infrastructure that connects communities. You’ll lead with purpose—guiding teams, solving complex problems, and helping ensure that bridges and tunnels remain safe, resilient, and reliable. Whether navigating technical challenges or coordinating with stakeholders, your work will contribute to the integrity of vital transportation systems and support the people who depend on them every day. In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following: Conducting safety inspections of in-service bridges and tunnels and preparing written reports on structural conditions. Performing or leading in-depth inspections using non-destructive testing methods, mechanized access equipment, and/or climbing gear. Conducting post-incident bridge inspections to assess damage and recommend appropriate actions, including potential closures or detours. Coordinating with bridge owners and other agencies on inspection schedules, traffic control, railroad access, navigational channels, and related logistics. Leading others by providing instruction, assigning and reviewing work, coaching and training team members, and offering input to the direct supervisor on staffing decisions and performance management. Performing other duties as assigned or required. Opportunity to travel to support national practice needs.

Requirements

• Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or similar program from an ABET accredited school. Foreign degrees must be accompanied by equivalency documentation.
• Currently qualify under National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) as a bridge or tunnel inspection team leader.
• Completed comprehensive training course based on the FHWA Bridge Inspector's Reference Manual (BIRM) (NHI Course 130055) and be current with refresher requirements.
• At least 5 years of experience in complex bridge safety inspection assignments.
• Highly motivated and independent with strong work ethic.
• Ability and experience to lead the work of others, communicate, and maintain proper working relationships.
• Possess knowledge of bridge inspection methods and procedures.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to solve problems and plan tasks with an understanding of "Critical Path Management".
• Ability to clearly describe observations and convey information with sketches and technical writing.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Must have experience with reporting procedures.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Actively engages multiple perspectives when solving problems, seeks to learn from peers, and encourages reciprocal learning among team members.
• Actively advocates for full inclusion in the workplace, fostering an environment that welcomes diversity and values equity for all employees, partners, clients, and the communities that GFT serves.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Nice To Haves

• PE or EIT
• Currently approved as a DOT Bridge Inspection Team Leader (CT, RI or MA).
• Additional NHI coursework (fracture critical/NSTM, tunnel inspection, ancillary structures, etc.).
• NDT certification.
• Working knowledge of Bentley MicroStation.
• Able, and willing, to travel on short notice.

Responsibilities

• Conducting safety inspections of in-service bridges and tunnels and preparing written reports on structural conditions.
• Performing or leading in-depth inspections using non-destructive testing methods, mechanized access equipment, and/or climbing gear.
• Conducting post-incident bridge inspections to assess damage and recommend appropriate actions, including potential closures or detours.
• Coordinating with bridge owners and other agencies on inspection schedules, traffic control, railroad access, navigational channels, and related logistics.
• Leading others by providing instruction, assigning and reviewing work, coaching and training team members, and offering input to the direct supervisor on staffing decisions and performance management.
• Performing other duties as assigned or required.
• Opportunity to travel to support national practice needs

Benefits

• Sign-on bonus
• Relocation bonus
• Wellness programs
• Parental leave
• Pet insurance
• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan
• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education
• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations.
• Incentive compensation

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior