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Bridge Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bridge Engineer Department: Structural Employment Type: Full Time Location: Glen Allen, Virginia ... Designing and detailing bridges and other transportation structures such as retaining walls.

RDA is seeking a Bridge Engineer with experience ranging from 3 to 8 years of structural design ... Designing and detailing bridges and other transportation structures such as retaining walls.

From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight ... In the role of Bridge Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Apply structural engineering and detailing ...

From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight ... In the role of Bridge Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Apply structural engineering and detailing ...

Bridge Design | DRMP * Serve as Structures Project Manager, Engineer of Record, or Design Lead on ... structure designs and plans * Ability to do 3D modeling in OpenBridge Modeler is a plus

Bridge Design | DRMP * Serve as Structures Project Manager, Engineer of Record, or Design Lead on ... structure designs and plans * Ability to do 3D modeling in OpenBridge Modeler is a plus

Chief Bridge Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$185K - $210K/yr

Chief Bridge Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Manassas, VA ... structure designs and plans * Ability to do 3D modeling in OpenBridge Modeler is a plus

Bridge Design | DRMP * Serve as Structures Project Manager, Engineer of Record, or Design Lead on ... structure designs and plans * Ability to do 3D modeling in OpenBridge Modeler is a plus

Chief Bridge Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$185K - $210K/yr

Chief Bridge Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Richmond, VA ... structure designs and plans * Ability to do 3D modeling in OpenBridge Modeler is a plus

Chief Bridge Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$185K - $210K/yr

Chief Bridge Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Virginia ... structure designs and plans * Ability to do 3D modeling in OpenBridge Modeler is a plus

Position Summary Branch Civil is searching for a skilled, reliable Bridge and Structural Carpenter ... Other Duties Please note this is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of ...

Position Summary Branch Civil is searching for a skilled, reliable Bridge and Structural Carpenter ... Other Duties Please note this is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Bridge Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$21.3K

$64.9K

$111K

How much do bridge designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge designer in Virginia is $64,883.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $84,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bridge Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bridge Designer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering, typically with a relevant degree and professional licensure (such as a PE). Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, MicroStation, and structural analysis tools, as well as knowledge of industry codes and standards, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and innovative bridge designs that meet regulatory requirements and client expectations.

What is the difference between Bridge Designer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectBridge DesignerStructural Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering; often requires licensureBachelor's or master's in civil or structural engineering; licensure typically required
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, construction sites, field inspectionsDesign offices, construction sites, consulting firms
Industry UsageSpecialized in bridge projects, infrastructure developmentBroader scope including buildings, bridges, and other structures
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for design roles in infrastructure projectsMore general, encompassing various structural projects

Bridge Designers focus specifically on the planning and design of bridges, requiring specialized knowledge in bridge engineering. Structural Engineers have a broader role, working on various types of structures including buildings and bridges. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but Bridge Designers specialize in bridge-specific projects, making them more targeted for infrastructure development.

What are some common challenges faced by bridge designers during the project lifecycle?

Bridge designers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, resolving site-specific constraints, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Balancing aesthetic considerations with structural integrity and budget limitations can also be complex. Additionally, adapting to evolving technologies and materials requires continuous learning, making flexibility and strong problem-solving skills essential in this role.

What does a Bridge Designer do?

A Bridge Designer is a civil engineer who specializes in planning, designing, and overseeing the construction of bridges. They analyze site conditions, select appropriate materials, and ensure that the bridge meets safety, durability, and regulatory standards. Bridge Designers use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed blueprints and collaborate with architects, construction teams, and government agencies throughout the project. Their work ensures that bridges are structurally sound, cost-effective, and able to support expected traffic loads.
What are popular job titles related to Bridge Designer jobs in Virginia? For Bridge Designer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Bridge Designer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,883 per year, or $31.2 per hour.
Bridge Engineer

$110K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

Description
Rinker Design Associates, LLC (RDA), a leading provider of professional civil engineering to the public and private sectors, has excellent opportunities for motivated civil engineering professionals. RDA will provide advancement opportunities for the complete development of transportation projects for VDOT and local municipalities. RDA is seeking a Bridge Engineer with experience ranging from 3 to 8 years of structural design experience.

What You'll Do:
  • Designing and detailing bridges and other transportation structures such as retaining walls. 
  • Working under supervision of senior engineers using structural design software and CADD software
  • Assisting with geometric layout and quantity development. 
  • Prepare structure type selection studies 
  • Work in cooperation with bridge staff to deliver PS&E contract documents on time and within the project budget for local agencies, federal agencies, and state DOTs  
  • Perform bridge designs and load ratings using spreadsheets, finite element software and/or other bridge software 
  • Design or check retaining wall and other structural components in support of roadway or site civil projects  
  • Assist the local team to establish and maintain client relationships; ability to coordinate and communicate with clients to ensure project design objectives are met and achieve client satisfaction 
  • Assist in building a strong regional presence for the firm in transportation related structural engineering 


What You'll Bring:
  • B.S. in Civil Engineering with a structures focus
  • 3-8 years of experience in structural design
  • Steel and Concrete design experience
  • Must demonstrate teamwork and possess written and oral communication skills
  • Passed P.E. exam (Registered P.E. a plus) 
  • Knowledgeable in AutoCAD/Civil 3D and MicroStation  


Why Join RDA?
We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes:   
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401K Retirement Plan; Roth Contributions
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability
  • Generous PTO and 8 federal holidays + 1 floating holiday
  • Parental leave 
  • Supportive team culture
RDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug-free workplace.
Applicants that require an employment visa sponsorship now or in the future will not be considered. 

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