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Assistant Bridge Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bridge Field Technician

Northbrook, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

This role will require regularnationwide travel to perform field investigations and bridge inspections, collect samples, test materials in order to assist in the diagnosis process, perform ...

Lead or assist in leading bridge projects within Hanson's Infrastructure Market, including highway ... Approved Team Leader by IDOT for NBIS Bridge Inspections (preferred). * Experience with DOT bridge ...

Lead or assist in leading bridge projects within Hanson's Infrastructure Market, including highway ... Approved Team Leader by IDOT for NBIS Bridge Inspections (preferred). * Experience with DOT bridge ...

Bridge Structural Engineer

Mokena, IL ยท On-site +1

$90K - $130K/yr

In addition to traditional design and inspection, our structural engineers support our Construction ... Complete or assist with IDOT or Local Agency Federal Aid Phase I and II projects for a variety of ...

Bridge Structural Engineer

Mokena, IL ยท On-site +1

$90K - $130K/yr

In addition to traditional design and inspection, our structural engineers support our Construction ... Complete or assist with IDOT or Local Agency Federal Aid Phase I and II projects for a variety of ...

Bridge Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$90K - $130K/yr

In addition to traditional design and inspection, our structural engineers support our Construction ... Complete or assist with IDOT or Local Agency Federal Aid Phase I and II projects for a variety of ...

Bridge Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$90K - $130K/yr

In addition to traditional design and inspection, our structural engineers support our Construction ... Complete or assist with IDOT or Local Agency Federal Aid Phase I and II projects for a variety of ...

Structural Inspector-2608230RD03

Lisle, IL ยท On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

... * Assist in performing basic design reviews, bridge calculations, and updating of the Illinois Tollway structural inspection manuals * Aid in preparing annual maintenance section reports and ...

Structural Inspector-2608230RD03

Lisle, IL ยท On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

... * Assist in performing basic design reviews, bridge calculations, and updating of the Illinois Tollway structural inspection manuals * Aid in preparing annual maintenance section reports and ...

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Showing results 21-40

Assistant Bridge Inspector information

What is an assistant bridge inspector?

Assistant Bridge Inspectors are professionals who support the inspection and evaluation of bridges and related structures to ensure their safety and compliance with regulations. They assist senior inspectors by conducting field inspections, recording observations, taking measurements, and sometimes collecting samples. Their responsibilities also include preparing inspection reports and helping identify maintenance or repair needs. This role requires knowledge of bridge construction, safety protocols, and may involve working in challenging outdoor environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by assistant bridge inspectors during field inspections?

Assistant Bridge Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, accessing hard-to-reach structural elements, and ensuring safety while operating near traffic or over water. They must be detail-oriented to accurately assess bridge components and document findings, sometimes under time constraints. Effective communication is also crucial, as they frequently collaborate with senior inspectors, engineers, and maintenance crews to report issues and recommend repairs.

What is the difference between Assistant Bridge Inspector vs Bridge Inspector?

AspectAssistant Bridge InspectorBridge Inspector
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma and some construction or engineering experience; certifications like OSHA safety training are commonRequires similar certifications, often with additional state-specific licensing or certifications
Work EnvironmentAssists in field inspections, works alongside senior inspectors, and performs manual tasks on bridgesLeads inspections, assesses structural integrity, and makes detailed reports
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by transportation departments, construction firms, and engineering companiesEmployed in similar settings, often as a step toward becoming a senior inspector or engineer

The main difference between an Assistant Bridge Inspector and a Bridge Inspector lies in experience and responsibility. Assistant Bridge Inspectors support senior inspectors by performing inspections and manual tasks, while Bridge Inspectors lead inspections, evaluate structural conditions, and make critical decisions. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but the Bridge Inspector position involves greater responsibility and expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant bridge inspector?

To thrive as an Assistant Bridge Inspector, you need knowledge of structural engineering principles, attention to detail, and typically a degree or coursework in civil engineering or a related field. Familiarity with inspection tools, data collection devices, and software like AutoCAD or Bridge Management Systems is common, and certifications such as OSHA safety training can be required. Strong observational skills, teamwork, and clear communication are crucial for accurate reporting and collaboration on-site. These skills ensure thorough inspections, compliance with safety standards, and the long-term integrity of bridge infrastructure.
What are the most commonly searched types of Bridge Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Bridge Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Bridge Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Assistant Bridge Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Assistant Bridge Inspector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Assistant Bridge Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Bridge Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Bridge Field Technician

Wje

Northbrook, IL โ€ข On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE)is seeking an exceptionalField and Lab Technicianto join our bridge engineering team, located at WJE's global headquarters in Northbrook, Illinois or WJE's branch office in Portland, Oregon.

At WJE, we spend almost as much time in the field, up close and personal with our projects, as we do in the office. This role will require regularnationwide travel to perform field investigations and bridge inspections, collect samples, test materials in order to assist in the diagnosis process, perform nondestructive and destructive testing, assist with specimen and full scale testing in our laboratory, perform fabrication of test components and retrofit components, and install structural retrofits. This position works under the general supervision of a Senior Specialist or Project Manager but completes routine and moderately complex tasks, testing and structure retrofit installations independently.As a Field and Lab Technician, you will perform various inspection techniques on a variety of bridge structures, both modern and historic.

A career at WJE will give you the opportunity tolearn from and grow alongside industry-leading experts as you develop your technical expertise and your hands-on capabilities.

Essential Functions

  • Routinely completes lab and field technician work, which includes: participation in bridge structure inspections, retrofit of steel and concrete structures including installation of bolted or welded steel retrofits, installation of instrumentation and data acquisition equipment, concrete coring, steel sample removal, moderate to complex steel fabrication, and performing tests in lab and field with minimal supervision

  • Support other inspections to assess conditions such as corrosion, defects, or cracking of structural steel. Interpret indications of distress and report or record results per project requirements

  • Under the direction of experienced engineering staff, understand and execute inspections in accordance with AWS or other applicable codes

  • Assist in additional NDT or other work at WJE's laboratory or field equipment facilities

  • Responsible for equipment maintenance and purchase/rental

  • Calibrates laboratory and field testing equipment

  • Plays an active role in the quality assurance program

  • Understands, follows, and enforces all safety standards

  • Assists in work product development by operating a computer, iPad, or similar device

  • Develops computer sketches or drawings from field notes or hand sketches

  • Conducts specialized testing

  • Assume increasing responsibilities as your experience and capabilities develop

  • Travels to job sites for extended periods of time (up to 40% of the time throughout the year)

Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent or Associate's degree in related field and up to four years of relevant work experience

  • Hands on capabilities with experience in mechanical, construction, and/or applicable electronic trades

  • Developed understanding of routine tests

  • Ability to work independently and to perform tasks after verbal and written instruction

  • Ability and interest to obtain some or all of the certifications herein after undergoing required classroom training and workhour experience

  • Basic computer knowledge. Knowledge of MS Office, PDF editors, and CAD software preferred.

  • Detail-oriented, problem solving mindset

  • Effective written and oral communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • ACI field training and lab certification

  • Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) or certified welder (SMAW, FCAW, GMAW to AWS D1.1/D1.5)

  • Commercial Driver License (Class A or B CDL)

  • SPRAT Level 1 Certification or Higher, or equivalent

Culture, Compensation, and Benefits:

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) is a global firm of engineers, architects, and materials scientists. Clients worldwide seek our expertise to solve the most significant, interesting, and challenging problems in the built world. Our applied experience from more than 175,000 projects combined with unparalleled laboratory and testing capabilities have made WJE a leader in providing innovative yet practical solutions to the clients we serve.

Working at WJE is a team endeavor characterized by a culture of trust and personal responsibility. We encourage open communication, continuous learning, innovative thinking, ongoing mentoring, and free-flowing collaboration. We seek highly talented and hard-working individuals who want to be challenged, who want hands-on work, who want to set a higher standard, and who want to be mentored by the industry's most accomplished experts. People with outstanding Character, unwaveringCommitment to our core and culture, strongExpertise, and genuineEnthusiasm for their work.

Learn more about the Extraordinary People we hire at WJE at www.wje.com/careers

WJE offers a robust, total compensation structure, where the hourly rate is just one component of an employee's annual earnings. Additionally, employees may be eligible to receive overtime and variable compensation based on personal and company performance, often resulting in above-market annual earnings. Actual hourly rate will be based on several factors including consideration for a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role while remaining mindful of our commitment to internal equity. A good faith estimate of the starting hourly rate (gross) for this position is in the following range:

$26.50 - $39.75

This non-exempt position is also eligible for WJE's industry-leading, total rewards package which enables our employees to grow and thrive with comprehensive health and financial benefits including:

  • Robust and affordable health plans for employees and their families, including HSA as well as low and high-deductible PPO options

  • Generous 401(k) matching of 110% for the first 6% of eligible pay vesting immediately

  • Time off to care for yourself and others

  • Investments in employees' educational assistance and professional development

Learn more about WJE's total rewards package here.

WJE is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants to apply including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans (VEVRAA federal contractor).

WJE will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of Fair Chance Ordinances.