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Bridge Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Your primary function will be to serve as an NBIS Bridge Inspection Team Leader for a diverse ... Work closely with a diverse team across RK&K's portfolio, including engineers from different ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Columbia, SC ยท On-site

$75 - $105/hr

At AVANTech, we bridge advanced mechanical design with real-world, high-consequence field execution. The Role: Translating Engineering to Execution We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to serve as ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Columbia, SC ยท On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

At AVANTech, we bridge advanced mechanical design with real-world, high-consequence field execution. The Role: Translating Engineering to Execution We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to serve as ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Columbia, SC ยท On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

At AVANTech, we bridge advanced mechanical design with real-world, high-consequence field execution. The Role: Translating Engineering to Execution We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to serve as ...

Resident Construction Engineer

Lexington, SC ยท On-site

$84K - $108K/yr

Serve as a senior CE&I project leader for SCDOT roadway, bridge, interchange, widening, interstate ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field from an accredited four-year college or ...

Showing results 41-60

Bridge Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$37.5K

$95.9K

$123.5K

How much do bridge engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge engineer in Columbia, SC is $95,856.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,600.00 and $108,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a bridge engineer?

Bridge engineers are civil engineering professionals who specialize in the design, analysis, construction, and maintenance of bridges and related structures. They ensure that bridges are safe, durable, and able to handle expected loads and environmental conditions. Bridge engineers work with a variety of materials such as steel, concrete, and composites, and use advanced software for modeling and design. Their work is essential for creating reliable transportation infrastructure and often involves collaboration with architects, contractors, and government agencies.

What does a bridge engineer do?

A bridge engineer is a specialized civil engineer who oversees the planning and construction of bridges and adjoining roadways. As a bridge engineer, your responsibilities include assessing the site, materials, timeline, and budget for the project. You see the construction through from planning to completion. You also work with scientists, construction teams, and government officials to make sure it complies with all building codes and regulations. Your job is to ensure the bridge is built as planned and finished on time and budget.

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

To thrive as a Bridge Engineer, you need strong knowledge of structural engineering principles, bridge design standards, and a degree in civil or structural engineering, often accompanied by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SAP2000, and MicroStation, along with familiarity with relevant codes like AASHTO, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective bridge projects that meet regulatory and client requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by bridge engineers during the design and construction phases, and how can they be addressed?

Bridge Engineers often encounter challenges such as site constraints, unexpected ground conditions, and coordination with multiple stakeholders during the design and construction phases. Managing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, effective communication with contractors and other engineers, and adaptability to changing project requirements. Staying updated on the latest industry standards and leveraging advanced design software can also help Bridge Engineers anticipate potential issues and deliver safe, efficient solutions. Proactive collaboration and regular site visits are key to ensuring that project milestones are met and quality is maintained throughout construction.

What is the difference between Bridge Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectBridge EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning, analyzing, and overseeing bridge projectsBroader infrastructure projects including roads, dams, and bridges
Industry UsageSpecialized in bridge structures within transportation and infrastructure sectorsGeneralist role across various civil infrastructure projects

Bridge Engineers focus specifically on designing and analyzing bridges, requiring specialized knowledge. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, working on various infrastructure projects, including bridges. Both roles often require similar credentials, but Bridge Engineers specialize in bridge-specific work, while Civil Engineers handle a wider range of civil projects.

Is a bridge engineer a good career?

A bridge engineer is a specialized civil engineer who designs, constructs, and maintains bridges, requiring knowledge of structural analysis and materials. It is a stable career with opportunities in infrastructure projects, often involving certifications and adherence to safety standards. Job prospects are generally good in regions with ongoing construction and infrastructure development.

What are popular job titles related to Bridge Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Bridge Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bridge Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Bridge Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:

Infographic showing various Bridge Engineer job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,155 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Key responsibilities

  • Serve as an NBIS Bridge Inspection Team Leader and lead structural condition inspections of bridges and structures following NBIS and owner-specific guidelines

  • Prepare detailed and accurate inspection reports documenting findings, assessments, and recommendations

  • Design various structural elements of bridges, culverts, retaining walls, and related structures


Job description

RK&K has an immediate need for an experienced, career-minded Structural Engineer/Bridge Inspector to join our team in South Carolina. Your primary function will be to serve as an NBIS Bridge Inspection Team Leader for a diverse inventory of bridges and structures for our numerous clients. This position would be supporting work throughout South Carolina and North Carolina. You will be expected to immediately lead structural condition inspections of bridges and structures following NBIS and owner specific guidelines and develop detailed condition inspection reports. As time and workload require, you will perform load ratings for bridges and culverts, prepare designs for bridges and other transportation related structures, buildings, and water/wastewater structures for a variety of projects and clients and provide preliminary concepts to final construction plans and construction phase reviews.
Successful performance in this role will lead to potential advancement into leadership and management roles in the condition inspection area where, in addition to continuing to serve as a Bridge Inspection Team Leader.
Essential Functions
  • NBIS Team Leader for Inspection Tasks
  • Prepare detailed and accurate inspection reports in client preferred formats documenting findings, assessments, and recommendations
  • Evaluate inspection reports generated by other Team Leaders or Inspectors for accuracy and completeness
  • Design various structural elements of bridges, box culverts, retaining walls, and related structures
  • Work closely with a diverse team across RK&K's portfolio, including engineers from different disciplines
  • Provide guidance, support, and mentorship to junior engineers/inspectors within the team

Required Skills and Experience
  • Four (4) years' experience in transportation related structural engineering, including bridge inspections
  • Familiarity with bridge inspection reporting systems such as BrM, BrR, WIGINS, InspectTech, SAM, DBIR, ASIR, etc. and use of Element Level reporting
  • Satisfy the requirements as an NBIS Team Leader per 23 CFR 650.309
  • FHWA NHI Courses 130055 or 130056
  • Experience with or willingness to learn structural design and CADD software such as: STADD Pro, Larsa4D, Leap Bridge Modules, MicroStation, AutoCAD, Openbridge and various other structural programs
  • Effective, professional oral and written communication including coordination with vendors and the safe implementation of bridge inspection access equipment and traffic control required for bridge inspection activities

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Master's degree in civil engineering or structural engineering
  • Engineer Intern (EI) license
  • Registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.) in SC or NC
  • FHWA NHI course 130078
  • Snooper and Bucket Truck Training

Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
What We Offer
RK&K offers excellent potential for career advancement and professional growth. We also offer attractive compensation packages commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances
  • Matching 401(k) plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Much, much more!

Why RK&K?
As a full-service engineering and construction management firm, RK&K gives you the opportunity to directly impact the communities in which we live and work. What sets RK&K apart is an award-winning culture that has fostered a spirit of collaboration and trust for over 100 years. To its clients, the firm delivers concepts, processes, and outcomes that are designed for success. RK&K has earned its reputation as a trusted partner, responsive employer, and community steward.
Design your career at RK&K, Apply Today!