1

Bridge Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Provides input and technical guidance to CAD Designer/Drafters, Designers, and lower-level ... Qualifications * 8 years or more of related work experience with bridge engineering design * VDOT ...

From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight ... In the role of Rail Bridge Engineer , we'll count on you to: * Serve in a technical role, under the ...

From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight ... In the role of Rail Bridge Engineer , we'll count on you to: * Serve in a technical role, under the ...

Structural Bridge Engineer

Richmond, VA ยท Hybrid

$85K - $120K/yr

... designs, rehabilitation and inspections, pedestrian walkways, and transit stations. This diverse ... Learn more about our Bridge and Structures Engineering practice and ongoing work at VHB: Bridges ...

Bridge Project Manager

Herndon, VA ยท Hybrid

$130K - $175K/yr

This role is ideal for a senior bridge engineer transitioning into a client-facing project ... Provide technical oversight and direction to engineering staff, including reviewing designs and ...

Structural (Bridge) Engineer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$97K - $125K/yr

The successful candidate will be part of a team designing simple and complex bridges (primarily ... Familiarity with AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications; experience with VDOT and/or MD SHA ...

Structural (Bridge) Engineer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$97K - $125K/yr

The successful candidate will be part of a team designing simple and complex bridges (primarily ... Familiarity with AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications; experience with VDOT and/or MD SHA ...

C. | Tysons Corner, VA | Hybrid VHB's structural engineering group plays a vital role in enhancing connectivity through infrastructure projects such as complex bridge and interchange designs ...

We are offering an exciting opportunity for an Entry-Level Structural Designer in our growing ... Experience with analytical software such as SAP, CSI Bridge, LARSA 4D, etc. * Experience with CAD ...

We are offering an exciting opportunity for an Entry-Level Structural Designer in our growing ... Experience with analytical software such as SAP, CSI Bridge, LARSA 4D, etc. * Experience with CAD ...

We are offering an exciting opportunity for an Entry-Level Structural Designer in our growing ... Experience with analytical software such as SAP, CSI Bridge, LARSA 4D, etc. * Experience with CAD ...

Showing results 41-60

Bridge Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$21.3K

$64.9K

$111K

How much do bridge designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 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?

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 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 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 degree do you need to design bridges?

Bridge designers typically need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, structural engineering, or a related field. A master's degree or professional engineering license can enhance job prospects and responsibilities. Strong knowledge of design software and understanding of materials and safety standards are also important.

What does a bridge designer do?

A bridge designer is an engineer who plans, designs, and oversees the construction of bridges, ensuring they are safe, functional, and meet engineering standards. They use tools like CAD software and analyze factors such as load capacity, materials, and environmental conditions to create detailed plans. Strong knowledge of structural engineering and relevant certifications are essential for this role.
Infographic showing various Bridge Designer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,883 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Bridge Engineer (PE), for COWI in North America

COWI

Mclean, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Bridge Engineer
McLean, VA
Regular, Full time
Hybrid
Do you want the opportunity to co-create with our experts on some of the most prestigious infrastructure programs in North America? Can you work with limited supervision and as a part of a team located locally and remotely? And are you ready to contribute with your expertise and learn from the best and advance your career and take the next step? Then, here is your chance to convert aspirations into actions.
Create the solutions that will enable a better tomorrow
At COWI, we shape a sustainable future through innovative engineering solutions. With over 90 years of experience, we are an international engineering firm specializing in bridge, tunnel, and marine structures, delivering projects that connect people and communities. Our McLean team is growing, and we are seeking a highly motivated Bridge Engineer to contribute to challenging and high-profile infrastructure projects across the region and take the next step in their career. You will work closely with your Technical Director and Project Managers alongside our customers on some of North America's most significant projects.
Your key responsibilities will be:
  • Prepare work plans, schedules, and budgets along with performing analysis of complex structures
  • Work with senior engineers in proposals, project coordination, and client communications and meetings
  • Prepare design calculations and drawings in accordance with applicable design codes, and also prepare engineering reports and other technical documents
  • Prepare standard construction documents, such as technical specifications and proposal documents
  • Conduct bridge inspections, load rating analyses, seismic evaluations, and retrofit/rehabilitation studies
  • Provide support during construction, including submittal reviews and site visits and perform other responsibilities as required
  • Work with and supervise junior engineers in performing designs and other engineering tasks and preparing documents

Your skills. Our team. Together we design the future
The first step to success in this role is that you are eager to collaborate with the people around you, whether they are colleagues, partners, or customers. Developing ties with others is something you do by acting respectfully and delivering on your promises. And you never get set in your ways but keep exploring new insights and ways to improve.
On top of that, you will:
  • Hold a bachelor's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering (Master's degree), be registered as PE in the home state or can obtain within 12 months of employment, and with a minimum of 5+ years of related experience in Bridge Design, or an equivalent
  • Be familiar with the use of structural design codes such as AASHTO along with having sufficient exposure to structural analysis software programs (ex: MDX, LARSA, CSiBridge, MIDAS., etc...)

Be conversant in the use of engineering software such as Excel, and Mathcad to efficiently produce engineering calculations
A place to work and so much more
At COWI, we work together with our customers to shape a sustainable and livable world. We do it by applying our knowledge and curiosity - and sometimes even our courage - to create the solutions the world needs today to enable a better tomorrow. We support our customers' transition towards increased sustainability. We strive to lead by example by embedding environmental management, social responsibility and good governance into our business practices and the options we provide to our customers.
We value differences and development and cultivate an environment of belonging and having fun. Because that is what brings out the best in you, at work and at home.
With offices primarily located in the Nordic region, the UK, North America and India, we are currently more than 7,500 people who bring their expertise in engineering, architecture, energy and environment into play.
What we also offer:
Being part of the COWI community offers more than just a competitive salary. We take care of our people both professionally and personally.
Some of our benefits include:
Flexible working arrangement | Top-up parental and childbirth recovery leave | Fantastic close-knit team with a wealth of knowledge to share | Full time hires get minimum 3 weeks vacation to start | Floating holiday to celebrate employee diversity | Paid sick leave | Annual fitness subsidy - yes, you can use this for a ski pass, yoga, or gym membership | 401K contribution matching with generous company match | Personal and professional development fund | Parking or public transit allowance | Medical, dental, and vision insurance 80% employer-paid premiums | Employee Assistance Program (EAP) | STD, LTD, AD&D, and Life Insurance | Referral incentive program| Frequent social events
Got more questions?
Get to know us even better at our website, www.cowi.com, where you can learn more about our projects, our strategy, what we want to achieve and what life is like at COWI.
Equal opportunity employer
COWI provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, COWI complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training information.
#LI-JOUR
#LI-Hybrid