Job Details
Bridge Engineer 5 (In-Training)
2026-03-31 State of Washington all cities,AK
Description:
This is a Bridge Engineer 5 (BE5) position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level (BE4) 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 BE5 level, the following competencies are required:
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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at . Please be sure to reference Bridge Engineer 5 (In-Training) 05198 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, 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
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
Please describe your experience performing bridge load ratings, structural analysis, or engineering evaluations in accordance with AASHTO and WSDOT standards:
02
Please briefly describe your experience performing bridge load ratings, structural analysis, or engineering evaluations in accordance with AASHTO and WSDOT standards. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
03
Describe your experience applying federal bridge inspection standards (23 CFR 650, NBIS/NTIS) in the field or office:
04
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?
05
Do you have a Professional Engineer (PE) License within the state of Washington?
06
If you do have a current PE license within the state of Washington, please provide the license number in the space provided. If you do not have this, please provide a description of ability to obtain active registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of Washington within six (6) months of the date of hire.
07
Do you have a valid driver's license and the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle?
08
Describe your experience ensuring compliance with federal or state bridge inspection regulations (NBIS/NTIS, WSDOT policies).
09
Describe your experience leading or coordinating bridge or tunnel inspection teams.
10
Please briefly describe experience leading or coordinating bridge or tunnel inspection teams. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
11
Describe any experience representing your organization to external agencies or stakeholders.
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
Salary : $91,464.00 - $135,840.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-HQ-05198e
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Headquarters
Opening Date: 03/25/2026
Closing Date: 4/8/2026 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 maintainingover 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 is seeking a talented Bridge Engineer to help ensure the safety, reliability, and longevity of Washington's bridges. In this role, you will support the State Local Bridge Engineer and assist local agencies with bridge engineering, inspection, and coding for the National Bridge Inventory, in alignment with federal mandates under Title 23 CFR Part 650. Your expertise will directly contribute to WSDOT's mission of providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options for all Washington communities. 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
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Bridge Engineer 5 will:
- Assist the State Local Bridge Engineer (Delegated Program Manager) in meeting the goals of the National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) and National Tunnel Inspection Standards (NTIS).
- Assist in the quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) process of reviewing bridge letter files and bridge site visits. This position compiles background information in preparation for agency visits by reviewing bridge data and pre-filling QA/QC forms.
- Assist in the review and scoring of applications for the Federal Local Bridge Program (FLBP) grant program. This position will perform bridge site visits, and review bridge inspection reports, load ratings, scour appraisals, seismic vulnerability studies, and other technical documents.
- Assist in day-to-day QA/QC activities to maintain compliance with the NBIS/NTIS. This includes regular notifications to local agencies and follow-up communications for timely inspections and reporting of inspection data. Position requires a clear and thorough understanding of 23 CFR 650 Subpart C (NBIS), Subpart E (NTIS), the WSDOT Bridge Inspection Manual, and the WSDOT Bridge Design Manual.
- Assist in development and delivery of training in support of the local bridge program, including the 2-week bridge inspection course, bridge inventory coding, and annual program updates.
This is a Bridge Engineer 5 (BE5) position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level (BE4) 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 BE5 level, the following competencies are required:
- Technical Expertise & Structural Engineering: Applies advanced knowledge of structural engineering principles to perform bridge structural analyses, load ratings, and engineering evaluations in accordance with AASHTO and WSDOT standards. Demonstrates proficiency in federal bridge inspection standards (23 CFR 650, NBIS/NTIS) and applies them in practical inspections and assessments. Successfully completes or is able to obtain FHWA-approved comprehensive bridge inspection training within required timeframes. Performs thorough field inspections in challenging environments, including working at heights, over water, in confined spaces, and over uneven terrain.
- Licensure & Regulatory Compliance: Holds a Professional Engineer (PE) or Structural Engineer (SE) license and demonstrates the ability to secure Washington State licensure by comity within six months of hire. Ensures all bridge inspection, evaluation, and reporting activities comply with federal and state regulations, including NBIS/NTIS and WSDOT policies.
- Leadership & Team Management: Leads bridge or tunnel inspection teams, independently scheduling, performing, and reporting condition assessments per FHWA and WSDOT requirements. Provides technical guidance and mentorship to engineering or inspection staff, supporting skill development and knowledge transfer. Demonstrates initiative and accountability in taking action to meet organizational and team needs.
- Collaboration & Professionalism: Contributes to a culture of respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity within the workplace. Effectively represents the organization in interactions with internal teams, external agencies, and stakeholders. Demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning, professional growth, and staying current with emerging bridge engineering practices.
- Mobility & Practical Skills: Maintains a valid Washington State driver's license and is able to travel statewide as needed for inspections and technical support.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
- Bridge Inspection Program Support: Demonstrates experience supporting a comprehensive bridge inspection program, contributing to planning, scheduling, and execution of inspections in alignment with federal and state standards.
- Quality Assurance & Technical Review: Applies critical thinking and attention to detail in reviewing bridge inspection reports and documentation, ensuring compliance with QA/QC standards and regulatory requirements.
- Technical Training & Knowledge Transfer: Develops and delivers technical training and guidance to engineers and inspection staff, effectively building team capability and ensuring consistent application of bridge engineering standards.
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the "Contact Us" section of this posting.
- 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.
- 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 .
- This is a Bridge Engineer 5 position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level in the 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 4: $91,464 - $123,084
- Bridge Engineer 5: $100,980 - $135,840
- 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 for more information.
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. 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 recruiter listed.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Amanda Strebeck, at . Please be sure to reference Bridge Engineer 5 (In-Training) 05198 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, 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
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
Please describe your experience performing bridge load ratings, structural analysis, or engineering evaluations in accordance with AASHTO and WSDOT standards:
- High: Independently performed comprehensive analyses or evaluations that directly influenced project outcomes.
- Intermediate: Assisted or contributed to analysis/evaluation projects under supervision.
- Basic: Participated in projects applying basic structural principles.
- None: No experience in structural analysis or bridge load rating.
02
Please briefly describe your experience performing bridge load ratings, structural analysis, or engineering evaluations in accordance with AASHTO and WSDOT standards. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
03
Describe your experience applying federal bridge inspection standards (23 CFR 650, NBIS/NTIS) in the field or office:
- High: Regularly applied standards independently and ensured full compliance.
- Intermediate: Applied standards under guidance or as part of a team.
- Basic: Minimal exposure to standards; observed or assisted.
- None: No experience with NBIS/NTIS standards.
04
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
05
Do you have a Professional Engineer (PE) License within the state of Washington?
- Yes
- No
- No, but I have the ability to obtain this within 6 months of hire.
06
If you do have a current PE license within the state of Washington, please provide the license number in the space provided. If you do not have this, please provide a description of ability to obtain active registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of Washington within six (6) months of the date of hire.
07
Do you have a valid driver's license and the ability to operate a state-owned vehicle?
- Yes
- No
08
Describe your experience ensuring compliance with federal or state bridge inspection regulations (NBIS/NTIS, WSDOT policies).
- High: Independently ensured compliance and guided others.
- Intermediate: Participated in compliance efforts under supervision.
- Basic: Minimal involvement.
- None: No experience with regulatory compliance.
09
Describe your experience leading or coordinating bridge or tunnel inspection teams.
- High: Independently led teams, scheduled inspections, and delivered reports.
- Intermediate: Provided guidance or support to team leaders.
- Basic: Contributed as a team member without leadership responsibilities.
- None: No experience in team leadership.
10
Please briefly describe experience leading or coordinating bridge or tunnel inspection teams. If you do not have this experience, please note 'N/A'.
11
Describe any experience representing your organization to external agencies or stakeholders.
- High: Regularly represented your organization and maintained professional standards.
- Intermediate: Participated in such interactions occasionally.
- Basic: Observed or assisted in interactions.
- None: No experience representing an organization externally.
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