Bridge Inspector Assistant

RK&K•Blacksburg, VA

23h•Hybrid

About The Position

RK&K is seeking a Bridge Inspector Assistant to support transportation structure inspection programs throughout Virginia. Working under certified NBIS Team Leaders, this role offers hands-on experience, professional development, and a defined pathway toward future NBIS Team Leader qualification. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, technically curious, and eager to grow within a dedicated inspection practice.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
One (1)+ year of bridge inspection experience. Related experience in construction inspection (CEI), bridge construction, or structural trades may be considered as supplemental, but direct bridge inspection experience is required.
Working familiarity with basic bridge components, terminology, and common defects and deterioration mechanisms.
Awareness of NBIS requirements, SNBI condition rating protocols, and VDOT inspection standards; depth of knowledge expected to develop through on-the-job training and formal coursework.
Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and comfort working with digital data collection tools and tablets.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, well-documented field work.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce legible field notes and sketches and to communicate observations effectively to the Team Leader.
Reliable, punctual, and dependable in a field-based work environment with variable daily schedules.
Collaborative team orientation and willingness to support work sharing across offices and groups.
Valid driver's license

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree or coursework in civil engineering technology, construction management, or a related technical field
FHWA/NHI Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges (NHI 130055) certification
Exposure to bridge inspection reporting platforms (e.g., AssetWise, ASIR, InspectX, AASHTOWare Bridge Management)
Exposure to inspection access equipment (snoopers, bucket trucks, ladders, climbing equipment)

Responsibilities

Assist NBIS Team Leaders with inspections of bridges, culverts, tunnels, walls, and ancillary transportation structures.
Perform field inspections, measurements, condition assessments, sketches, and photo documentation.
Operate and support inspection access equipment including ladders, bucket trucks, and under-bridge inspection units.
Assist with maintenance of traffic (MOT), work zone traffic control, and field safety implementation.
Utilize inspection technologies including drones/UAS, 3D modeling tools, and nondestructive testing methods.
Prepare field notes, inspection reports, photographs, sketches, and supporting documentation.
Enter, manage, and verify inspection data within client and industry bridge management systems.
Comply with all applicable safety, quality, OSHA, NBIS, FHWA, VDOT, and client requirements.
Maintain required certifications, training records, and qualifications for assigned duties.
Progress toward NBIS Team Leader qualifications through training, mentorship, and field experience.