Assistant Quality Assurance Bridge Engineer (BE5) In-Training

State of Washington

  • Tumwater, WA
  • 3 days ago
  • $102,996–$138,552 Per Year

Highlights

Bridge Inspection: Demonstrated basic bridge inspection experience under general supervision of a certified Team Leader, including: Accurately identifying and measuring structural defects; Drafting bridge inspection report documentation; And coordinating logistics, equipment, and traffic control for scheduled bridge inspection trips. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

Numbers & Facts

LocationTumwater, WA
Salary$102,996–$138,552 Per Year

Description

Assistant Quality Assurance Bridge Engineer (BE5) In-Training

Salary

$93,288.00 - $138,552.00 Monthly

Location

Thurston County - Tumwater, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-HQ-05605

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Headquarters

Opening Date

09/14/2026

Closing Date

10/5/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

  • Description
  • Benefits
  • Questions

Description

About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a talented Bridge Engineer 5 to support statewide bridge inspection quality assurance and help ensure the safety, reliability, and longevity of Washingtons bridges. Working alongside the State Quality Assurance Bridge Engineer, this position reviews bridge inspection documentation and field practices, provides engineering guidance to inspectors, and supports accurate and consistent application of federal and state bridge inspection requirements. Bring your technical skills, make an impact statewide, and play a key role in maintaining the integrity of Washington's critical transportation infrastructure.

What to Expect

Frequent statewide travel is an important part of this role. This position requires fieldwork, including overnight travel and periods when you may be in travel status for most of the workweek. When not working in the field, this position offers limited flexible/hybrid remote work options.

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

  • Perform quality assurance reviews of bridge inspection documentation, historical records, field verification, and supporting engineering information to identify compliance concerns and ensure technical accuracy.
  • Lead bridge site visits and comprehensive engineering reviews of inspection reports, load ratings, scour appraisals, Plans of Action, and other technical documents.
  • Make engineering determinations regarding inspection requirements, reporting compliance, and technical notifications, and coordinate follow-up actions with bridge inspectors and program staff.
  • Serve as a technical resource on National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS), National Tunnel Inspection Standards (NTIS), the WSDOT Bridge Inspection Manual, and applicable engineering standards.
  • Plan, direct, and complete in-service bridge inspections, exercising engineering judgment to evaluate structural conditions and inspection findings.
  • Lead bridge inspection teams during field operations, provide technical oversight, assign inspection activities, and mentor inspectors and other team members.
  • Perform inspections using specialized access methods and equipment, including technical rope access, under bridge inspection trucks, bucket trucks, scaffolding, boats, and climbing techniques.
  • Develop, update, and deliver technical content for statewide bridge inspection training programs and provide technical guidance through classroom instruction, field demonstrations, webinars, and coaching.
  • Assist with development and revision of the WSDOT Bridge Inspection Manual by evaluating changes in regulations, engineering practices, and inspection procedures.

Qualifications

This is a Bridge Engineer 5 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan.

At minimum, the following competencies are required:

  • Professional Engineer: Current registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Civil engineering or Structural Engineer (SE) license in the State of Washington or ability to obtain within six (6) months of appointment through comity.

  • Bridge Structural Analysis: Demonstrated knowledge of structural engineering principles and the ability to interpret structural analysis, bridge load ratings, and engineering evaluations in accordance with AASHTO standards

  • Bridge Condition Inspection Training: Successful completion of FHWA-approved comprehensive bridge inspection training, or ability to complete within (6) months of hire.

  • Bridge Inspection: Demonstrated basic bridge inspection experience under general supervision of a certified Team Leader, including:

  • Accurately identifying and measuring structural defects;

  • Drafting bridge inspection report documentation;

  • And coordinating logistics, equipment, and traffic control for scheduled bridge inspection trips.

  • Engineering Judgement: Basic ability to apply engineering judgement to evaluate inspection findings, propose repair or preservation actions, and elevate complex issues to a senior engineer.

  • Technical Professional Knowledge: Working knowledge of 23 CFR 650 (NBIS/NTIS) and experience applying bridge and/or tunnel inspection standards in practice.

  • Quality Assurance and Quality Control: Some experience contributing to QA/QC review processes and technical bridge evaluations.

  • Effective Communication: Proficiency in verbal and written communication.

  • Respectful Workplace: Actively contributes to a work environment that fosters respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all.

  • Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

  • Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

In addition to the competencies above, candidates at the Bridge Engineer 5 level must also demonstrate:

  • Certified Team Leader: Current certification as a Team Leader for bridge and tunnel inspection in accordance with NBIS and NTIS or ability to obtain within six months of appointment.
  • Bridge Inspection: Comprehensive experience as a Team Leader for bridge or tunnel inspections, including all common material and span types, NSTM, complex features, and multi-team inspections in accordance with NBIS, NTIS, and WSDOT policies and procedures.
  • Effective Training: Facilitates and delivers technical guidance and training to bridge engineers.
  • Technical Professional Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge of NBIS, NTIS, and WSDOT inspection program policies and procedures with demonstrated application in inspection or training activities.
  • Effective Communication: Proficiency in verbal and written communication with proven ability to create and deliver presentations, revise technical manuals or guides, and represent the program in technical discussions with local and regulatory partners.

The following qualifications are also required:

  • A valid, unrestricted Washington State drivers license.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) at the time of hire.
  • Ability to work at heights, over waterways, in confined spaces, and outdoors in varying weather and terrain.
  • Ability to travel frequently, including overnight travel of up to five days.
  • Ability to use specialized inspection equipment and perform technical climbing techniques.
  • Ability to respond to emergency situations on a rotation and report to the assigned duty station within 40minutes.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

  • Engineering: Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program.
  • WSDOT Bridge Experience: working knowledge of BridgeWorks application and the Washington State Bridge Inspection Manual (WSBIM).
  • Bridge Structural Analysis: Demonstrated knowledge of structural engineering principles and the ability to interpret structural analysis, bridge load ratings, and engineering evaluations in accordance with WSDOT standards.

Important Notes

  • This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

  • This position requires field work, and overnight travel. When not working in the field, this position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.

  • In addition to the salary range listed, for this specific Bridge Engineer 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.

  • This position requires a Professional Engineers License issued by the State of Washington. License holders from other states will be expected to obtain a WA State PE license within six (6) months of appointment.

  • This is a Bridge Engineer 5 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the classification series based on candidate qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal "in-training" plan. The base salaries for each level are:

  • Bridge Engineer 5: $102,996 - $138,552 Annually

  • Bridge Engineer 4: $93,288 - $125,544 Annually

  • 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 Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.

  • 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 www.uscis.gov

Why WSDOT

  • Work-Life Balance - We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
  • 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 State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

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 three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can 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.

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 www.uscis.gov

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Rachel.Giese@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-HQ-05605 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. Thats 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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-31-165(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 WAC 357-58-175, 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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) 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

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Which best describes your current professional engineering license status?

  • Current Washington State PE license.
  • Current Washington State SE license.
  • Current PE or SE license in another U.S. jurisdiction and eligible to obtain Washington State registration through comity.
  • I do not have a PE or SE license.

02

If you indicate you have a Professional or Structural Engineer license in the question above, please identify the state in which you are licensed and your license number. If you do not have this license, please enter N/A.

03

Please select the response that best describes your highest level of completed education.

  • I have a master's degree or higher.
  • I have a bachelor's degree.
  • I have an associate's degree.
  • I have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • None of the above

04

If you indicated completion of a degree, please list your degree and field of study. Otherwise, enter N/A.

05

Which best describes your bridge inspection experience?

  • I have comprehensive experience leading complex bridge or tunnel inspections, including varied materials and span types, NSTM, complex features, and multi-team inspections.
  • I have independently performed bridge inspections and evaluated structural conditions and inspection findings.
  • I have performed bridge inspection work under general supervision, including identifying and measuring structural deficiencies and documenting inspection findings.
  • I have limited bridge inspection experience or related inspection experience.
  • I do not have bridge inspection experience.

06

Please describe your experience applying structural engineering principles to bridge inspections, load ratings, structural evaluations, or related engineering work. If you do not have this experience, please enter N/A.

07

Which best describes your experience with quality assurance or quality control of bridge inspection or engineering documentation?

  • I have independently led QA/QC reviews and identified technical or compliance issues requiring corrective action.
  • I have regularly participated in QA/QC reviews and technical evaluations.
  • I have assisted with QA/QC reviews under the direction of another engineer.
  • I have limited experience with QA/QC processes.
  • I do not have this experience.

08

Which best describes your experience leading technical bridge inspection activities?

  • I have led complex, multi-team inspections and provided technical direction to other inspectors or engineers.
  • I have served as a team leader for bridge or tunnel inspections.
  • I have independently performed bridge inspections but have not served as a team leader.
  • I have supported bridge inspection teams under general supervision.
  • I do not have this experience.

09

Which best describes your experience leading bridge or tunnel inspection teams?

  • Currently certified as a Team Leader for bridge and tunnel inspection in accordance with NBIS and NTIS.
  • Previously served in a bridge or tunnel inspection leadership role but do not currently hold the certification.
  • Have participated in bridge or tunnel inspections but have not served as a Team Leader.
  • I do not have this experience.

10

Are you able and willing to report in service to the assigned duty station within 40 minutes of an after-hours call, or willing to relocate to meet this response time?

  • Yes
  • No

11

Do you have a valid, unrestricted drivers license?

  • Yes
  • No

12

Do you currently hold a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)?

  • Yes
  • No

13

Are you willing and able to traverse uneven and steep terrain, work adjacent to traffic and heavy equipment, work at heights and over water, and work in adverse weather conditions?

  • Yes
  • No

14

Please select the following training/certifications you have completed:

  • Introduction to Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges (FHWA-NHI-130101)
  • Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges (FHWA-NHI-130055 or 1300556)
  • FHWA NSTM Inspection Certification (FHWA-NHI-130078)
  • FHWA Stream Stability & Scour Course (FHWA-NHI-130047)
  • Tunnel Safety Inspection course (FHWA-NHI-130110)
  • Underwater Bridge Inspection (FHWA-NHI-130091)
  • None of the above

15

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • 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)

16

If you selected Other on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov

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