Fall/Winter Field Engineer Co-op 26'-27'

American Bridge Company • Seattle, WA

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

The BNSF Salmon Bay Bridge is a critical rail bascule drawbridge located in Seattle, Washington, carrying BNSF Railway freight traffic across Salmon Bay between the Ballard and Interbay neighborhoods. The bridge, originally constructed in the early 20th century, is undergoing a major rehabilitation to replace its aging counterweight system — a structurally complex and operationally critical component that allows the bridge leaf to open and close for maritime traffic. This rehabilitation project involves detailed structural analysis, design coordination, construction inspection, and close collaboration with BNSF Railway, structural engineers of record, fabricators, and regulatory agencies. The co-op student will gain hands-on experience in heavy civil infrastructure within a challenging urban marine environment.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in an accredited Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or related undergraduate/graduate program
• Completion of coursework in structural analysis, mechanics of materials, or structural design
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a project team
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel locally to the project site required
• Must comply with BNSF Railway site safety and security access requirements (background check may be required)

Nice To Haves

• Prior internship, co-op, or construction experience (any discipline considered)
• Familiarity with AutoCAD, Revit, or structural analysis software (SAP2000, RISA, etc.)
• Coursework or interest in bridge engineering, structural rehabilitation, or transportation infrastructure
• Familiarity with AREMA (American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association) standards
• Experience or willingness to work in an active construction site environment

Responsibilities

• Assist with construction observation and inspection activities at the project site
• Document field conditions, construction progress, and contractor activities
• Support quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) reviews of construction work
• Assist in reviewing and logging submittments, RFIs (Requests for Information), and change orders
• Assist in reviewing structural drawings, specifications, and shop drawing submittals
• Support load calculations, structural checks, and counterweight balance analyses
• Help coordinate with fabricators and contractors on technical issues
• Assist in preparing engineering reports, memoranda, and technical documentation
• Maintain organized project files, construction logs, and correspondence records
• Support schedule tracking and coordination of project milestones
• Assist in preparing meeting minutes and action item tracking
• Participate in project meetings with the client, contractors, and regulatory stakeholders

Benefits

• Competitive hourly rate (commensurate with experience)
• Personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety vest, and steel-toed boots — provided or reimbursed

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Associate degree