Bridge Inspector

BDI BRIDGE DIAGNOSTICS • Austin, TX

5d • Onsite

About The Position

BDI is seeking a highly motivated and versatile Bridge Inspector to join its bridge inspection staff in the Austin, Texas office. The position focuses on bridge inspections performed in accordance with FHWA’s National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) for state DOT and local bridge owner clients, as well as in-depth bridge evaluation and preservation projects. Work includes preparing for and conducting field inspections, documenting bridge conditions, interpreting field and client-provided data, and preparing reports. The role may also support diagnostic testing, structural monitoring, and nondestructive evaluation services. Candidates with an engineering background may additionally support bridge load rating and structural analysis.

The position combines hands-on field work with office-based reporting and offers the opportunity to work with and receive mentorship from senior technical staff and licensed Professional Engineers across the life cycle of bridge evaluation. Field work may take place from ground level, ladders, hydraulic access equipment such as a UBIT, or by rope access. Work may involve heights of more than 200 feet, overnight shifts, varied weather, and travel of up to 75%.

For candidates with an engineering background, responsibilities may include special and in-depth inspections; developing AASHTOWare Bridge Rating models and load ratings; calculating member capacities and rating factors; developing finite element models; evaluating load posting needs and critical findings under a licensed Professional Engineer’s direction; and supporting structural evaluations and recommendations for repair, rehabilitation, and preservation. The position also involves preparing technical reports and memoranda for bridge owners.

The starting salary range is $50,000–$80,000 per year, dependent on experience. BDI offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package and is an equal opportunity employer.

Requirements

• 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.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel.
• Willingness to travel up to 75%, including overnight travel for field work.
• Ability to work schedules that may extend the typical workweek or work hours according to project-specific requirements.
• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds and stamina for moderate physical activity.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Comfort working at heights of 200 feet or more.
• For candidates with an engineering background: bachelor’s degree in civil or structural engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
• For candidates with an engineering background: EIT/EI certification and ability to support bridge load rating and structural analysis.

Nice To Haves

• For candidates with an engineering background, bridge load rating or structural analysis experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist with routine NBIS and SNBI bridge inspections.
• Document component ratings, element condition states, and findings; prepare inspection reports and update owner web-based reporting systems.
• Conduct field work from ground level, ladders, hydraulic access equipment, or using rope access techniques.
• Coordinate with project managers, senior engineers, and clients regarding schedules, logistics, and deliverables.
• Update internal documentation after project completion and share lessons learned with the team.
• For candidates with an engineering background, conduct in-depth, nonredundant steel tension member (NSTM), damage, and special inspections in accordance with NBIS and SNBI.
• Develop AASHTOWare Bridge Rating models and load ratings according to the AASHTO Manual for Bridge Evaluation, 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 evaluation of load posting needs and critical findings under the direction of a licensed Professional Engineer.
• Prepare load rating reports, summary sheets, and client submittal documentation.
• 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 qualifications.
• Prepare technical memoranda and reports summarizing findings and recommendations for bridge owners.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• 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 insurance.
• Optional dental, vision, hospital, critical illness, accident, and pet insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

What This Job Offers

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