Bridge Engineer 4 (In-Training) - Lead Inspector
Apply NowCompany: State of Washington
Location: Tumwater, WA 98511
Description:
Salary : $61,404.00 - $116,556.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 25DOT-HQ-05493e
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 04/08/2025
Closing Date: 4/29/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT Bridge & Structures office is currently seeking a Lead Inspector to fill a Bridge Engineer 4 (In-Training) vacancy located in Tumwater, WA. As a member of the Bridge Preservation Office (BPO), this position will serve as a Lead Inspector and will be responsible for conducting federally mandated bridge inspections throughout the State. National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) dictate the scope and requirements of a bridge inspection program, which is the basic mission that the Bridge Preservation Office is required to carry out. The Lead Inspector will be responsible for conducting in-service bridge inspections in conformance with FHWA and WSDOT requirements and procedures. This is an in-training position and allows for candidates to be considered at either the Bridge Engineer 1, 2, 3 or 4 level depending on professional experience. This position supports WSDOT's mission of providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation by ensuring the safety and reliability of the bridges on the state highway system.
What to Expect
This position, at times, performs works at heights exceeding 100', inside confined space environments, over waterways, outdoors with exposure to inclement weather and frequently traverse uneven terrain. In addition, this position may perform inspection of bridges and structures using technical rope access (technical climbing techniques).
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Lead Inspector will:
Qualifications
This is a Bridge Engineer 4 (BE4) position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level (BE3, BE2 or BE1) depending on qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan.
To be considered at the BE1, the following are required:
To be considered at the BE2, the following are required:
To be considered at the BE3, the following are required:
To be considered at the BE4, the following are required:
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes
Why WSDOT
Check out this video to learn more:
How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:
Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter via email.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-05493e in the subject line.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 12-31-2022
01
Do you have a bachelor's degree or higher in civil, geotechnical, structural, transportation, hydraulic and mechanical engineering?
02
If you are currently working towards a degree, please list your degree and expected graduation date. Otherwise, note N/A.
03
Have you successfully completed the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering Exam (E.I.T. status)?
04
Are you registered as a Professional Engineer in Washington State?
05
Do you have the ability to obtain a valid TWIC?
06
Please select the response that best describes your total months of bridge inspection experience.
07
In reference to the questions above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please note N/A.
08
This position requires the ability to work at heights of 100 feet, inside confined spaces, over water ways, and/or in inclement weather. Are you able and willing to perform these essential job functions?
09
Do you have a valid driver's license?
10
Please select the following training/certifications you have completed:
11
Do you have experience with WSBIS and BMS?
12
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
13
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question
Location : Thurston County - Tumwater, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 25DOT-HQ-05493e
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 04/08/2025
Closing Date: 4/29/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT Bridge & Structures office is currently seeking a Lead Inspector to fill a Bridge Engineer 4 (In-Training) vacancy located in Tumwater, WA. As a member of the Bridge Preservation Office (BPO), this position will serve as a Lead Inspector and will be responsible for conducting federally mandated bridge inspections throughout the State. National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) dictate the scope and requirements of a bridge inspection program, which is the basic mission that the Bridge Preservation Office is required to carry out. The Lead Inspector will be responsible for conducting in-service bridge inspections in conformance with FHWA and WSDOT requirements and procedures. This is an in-training position and allows for candidates to be considered at either the Bridge Engineer 1, 2, 3 or 4 level depending on professional experience. This position supports WSDOT's mission of providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation by ensuring the safety and reliability of the bridges on the state highway system.
What to Expect
This position, at times, performs works at heights exceeding 100', inside confined space environments, over waterways, outdoors with exposure to inclement weather and frequently traverse uneven terrain. In addition, this position may perform inspection of bridges and structures using technical rope access (technical climbing techniques).
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Lead Inspector will:
- Complete in-service bridge inspections in conformance with Federal Highways Administration (FHWA) and WSDOT requirements and procedures.
- Access of structures using a variety of techniques and access equipment, including but not limited to, Technical Rope Access, operating an Under Bridge Inspection Truck (UBIT), Man Lifts, Bucket Trucks, Scaffolding, Boats, or other equipment as needed.
- Complete inspection reports in conformance with FHWA and WSDOT requirements and procedures.
- Utilize a variety of software programs and operate computers and computer accessories.
- Be responsible for preliminary work prior to inspections, such as reviewing bridge reports and files, preparing inspection packets, and coordinating with outside agencies and WSDOT personnel.
- Develop bridge inspection requirements and planning tools.
Qualifications
This is a Bridge Engineer 4 (BE4) position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level (BE3, BE2 or BE1) depending on qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan.
To be considered at the BE1, the following are required:
- A valid unrestricted driver's license.
- A bachelor's degree in engineering (civil, geotechnical, structural, transportation, hydraulic and mechanical engineering) from an ABET accredited program.
- Ability to obtain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
To be considered at the BE2, the following are required:
- BE1 Requirements and a total of 24 months of bridge inspection experience.
- Passed the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) / Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam.
To be considered at the BE3, the following are required:
- BE2 Requirements and a total 48 months of bridge inspection experience.
- FHWA NSTM Inspection Certification (FHWA-NHI-130078).
To be considered at the BE4, the following are required:
- BE3 Requirements and a total 60 months of bridge inspection experience.
- Licensed as a Professional Engineer.
- FHWA Stream Stability & Scour Course (FHWA-NHI-135047).
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Previous bridge inspection or maintenance experience.
- Knowledge of FHWA NBI Standards inspection and coding processes.
- Experience with WSDOT Bridge Preservation Database (WSBIS) and Bridge Management Systems (BMS).
*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- In addition to the salary range listed, for this specific Bridge Engineer 4 position, an additional 10% assignment pay will be applied when either operating an Under-Bridge Inspection Truck (UBIT) from the bucket or while serving as back-up operator on the bridge deck for a minimum of four (4) hours per working day.
- This position requires frequent overnight travel.
- In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
- This position has been approved for in-training. The hiring manager is looking to hire at the level, however the in-training plan will allow candidates to be considered as a , , or , depending on qualifications. The salaries for each level are:
- Bridge Engineer 4: $86,712 - $116,556 Annually
- Bridge Engineer 3: $74,724 - $100,524 Annually
- Bridge Engineer 2: $67,716 - $91,068 Annually
- Bridge Engineer 1: $61,404 - $82,512 Annually
- This position may offer flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit .
Why WSDOT
- Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle.
- Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
- Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
- Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to for more information.
Check out this video to learn more:
How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:
- An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
- An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
- Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.
Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter via email.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, at . Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-05493e in the subject line.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 12-31-2022
01
Do you have a bachelor's degree or higher in civil, geotechnical, structural, transportation, hydraulic and mechanical engineering?
- Yes
- No
- My degree in progress - will graduate within the next 10 months.
- My degree is in another field
02
If you are currently working towards a degree, please list your degree and expected graduation date. Otherwise, note N/A.
03
Have you successfully completed the NCEES Fundamentals of Engineering Exam (E.I.T. status)?
- Yes
- No
04
Are you registered as a Professional Engineer in Washington State?
- Yes
- No
- I am registered in another state.
05
Do you have the ability to obtain a valid TWIC?
- Yes
- No
- I currently possess a valid TWIC Card.
06
Please select the response that best describes your total months of bridge inspection experience.
- I have 60 months or more of this experience.
- I have 48 - 59 months of this experience.
- I have 36 - 47 months of this experience.
- I have 24 - 35 months of this experience.
- I have less than 24 months of this experience.
- I do not have this experience.
07
In reference to the questions above, please briefly describe your experience. If you do not have this experience, please note N/A.
08
This position requires the ability to work at heights of 100 feet, inside confined spaces, over water ways, and/or in inclement weather. Are you able and willing to perform these essential job functions?
- Yes
- No
09
Do you have a valid driver's license?
- Yes
- No
10
Please select the following training/certifications you have completed:
- FHWA NSTM Inspection Certification (FHWA-NHI-130078)
- FHWA Stream Stability & Scour Course (FHWA-NHI-130047)
- None of the above
- None of the above
11
Do you have experience with WSBIS and BMS?
- Yes
- No
12
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
- Indeed
- Direct Email Notification
- WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
- Career Fair
- Monster
- WorkSource
- Handshake
- AASHTO
- NACTO
- COMTO
- APWA
- "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
- Radio advertisement
- WSDOT Employment Site
- Careers.wa.gov
- governmentjobs.com
- Other (specify below)
13
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:
Required Question