Underwater Bridge Inspector (BE3) In-Training

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 is currently seeking a Bridge Engineer 3 to embark on an exhilarating journey with our highly skilled underwater bridge inspection team. Serving as an Underwater Bridge Inspector, you will be responsible for assisting in the performance of federally mandated underwater bridge inspections as a co-lead, ensuring the safety and reliability of monumental and unique bridges on our state highway system. This covers all bridge and ferry terminal structures in Washington State including Special Structures, which are monumental, moveable, complex, or otherwise unique bridge structures. In this role, you will also operate equipment such as inspection vehicle, towing a boat trailer, operating a variety of boats, piloting a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) or Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). Don't miss this rare opportunity to be a part of a small team responsible for extraordinary inspections – where adventure awaits underwater at every bridge!

What to Expect

Due to the nature of the work performed in this role, the successful candidate must have the ability to work underwater in low to zero visibility at depths up to 100’ in currents up to 3.5 knots, work at heights exceeding 100’, inside confined space environments, over waterways, outdoors with exposure to inclement weather and frequently traverse uneven terrain. This position may also perform inspections of bridges and structures using technical rope access (technical climbing techniques).

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Underwater Bridge Inspector will:

• Assist in the completion of bridge inspections of bridge elements which are continually submerged in water. 
• Perform non-destructive ultrasonic tests, and magnetic particle and dye penetrant tests.
• Use snorkeling, scuba, and/or surface supplied air for underwater breathing during inspections.
• Perform Bathometric Surveys from a boat, land or in a stream.
• Review bridge reports, letter files and scour analysis documents; prepare bridge inspection packets.
• Coordinate, as required, with WSDOT regional personnel or local agency staff, outside agencies and rental companies. 
• Review tide and flow data to find optimal windows in which to conduct underwater inspection. 
• Operate equipment such UBIT’s, Bucket Trucks, or other personnel lifts. 
• Utilize specialized equipment and techniques for rope access.
• Prepare dive equipment, boat and vehicle prior to inspection; coordinate and organize with other inspection team members. 

Qualifications

This is a Bridge Engineer 3 (BE3) position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level (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 Bridge Engineer 1 level, the following are required:

• An open-water Scuba Diving Certificate.
• A valid driver’s license.

To be considered at the Bridge Engineer 2, the following are required:

• Twelve (12) months of experience in a bridge inspection, maintenance, construction, or management field.
• An open-water Scuba Diving Certificate.
• A valid driver’s license.

To be considered at the Bridge Engineer 3, the following are required:

• Thirty (30) months of experience in a bridge inspection, maintenance, construction, or management field.
• An open-water Scuba Diving Certificate.
• A valid driver’s license.

The following are also required at any level: 

• Ability to obtain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
• Ability to obtain a Washington State Boater Education Card.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Class A Commercial Driver’s License for the State of Washington within six (6) months of employment.
• Ability to perform standby/on-call emergency response up to 3 weeks a year or as required. 
• Ability to report in service to assigned duty station within 60 minutes of an after-hours call. 
• Ability to work underwater in low to zero visibility at depths up to 100’ in currents up to 3.5 knots.
• Ability to travel statewide overnight. 
• Ability to work in confined-space environments, near and above freeway traffic, at heights, and over waterways.
• Ability to pass dive physical examination as performed by physician and in accordance with OSHA requirements.
• Ability to dive using a full face mask or dive helmet.
• Ability to maintain diving fitness within the parameters of the Dive Safety Manual.
• Ability to obtain the diving certifications listed in “Desired Qualifications” and to dive utilizing surface supplied air.
• Ability to operate a UBIT at heights greater than 100 feet.
• Ability to operate a variety of boats in all conditions reasonable for boat size.
• Ability to climb and descend steep and uneven, brush covered slopes while transporting up to 50 pounds of equipment.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Completion of a Bridge Condition Inspection Course.
• Completion of an Underwater Bridge Condition Inspection Course.
• A valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License. 
• Experience as a bridge inspector.
• Advanced Open Water Diving Certificate including dry suit, night, and limited visibility specialties.
• Rescue Diver and First Aid for Professional Divers Certificates.
• UAS Remote Pilot License.
• Certified in maintenance and inspection of scuba tanks, Apeks regulators, and Divator MK-II face mask/regulator.
• Experience conducting surveys underwater and on land.
• Working knowledge of Computer-Aided Design and Drafting (CADD).

*To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes 

• This position qualifies for supplemental dive assignment pay of up to an additional $10/hour when engaged in dive work. In addition to a supplemental UBIT pay of an additional 10% per hour when employees are engaged in that work.
• This position requires performing standby/on-call emergency response up to 3 weeks a year or asrequired. 
• Statewide overnight travel is an expectation of the position and may be required on regular, sporadic, or as needed basis.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• 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.
• This position has been approved for in-training. The hiring manager is looking to hire at the Bridge Engineer 3 level, however the in-training plan will allow candidates to be considered as a Bridge Engineer 2, or Bridge Engineer 1, if not qualified at the highest level. The salaries for each level are: 
  • Bridge Engineer 3: 74,724 – $100,524 Annually 
  • Bridge Engineer 2: $67,716 – $91,068 Annually 
  • Bridge Engineer 1: $61,404 – $82,512 Annually 
• 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 are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including occasional telework for eligible positions.  
• 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 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 Robyn.Lovely@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-HQ-05487 in the subject line. 

Salary : $61,404 - $100,524