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Bridge Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The ideal candidate will have experience in bridge design, rehabilitation, and inspections and must have an interest in learning and working on diverse project assignments which may include highway ...

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Project Bridge Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Performing bridge and tunnel inspections and preparation of inspection reports. * Reviewing shop drawing submittals. Organize submittals and address questions from contractors during the construction ...

Project Bridge Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$100K - $140K/yr

Performing bridge and tunnel inspections and preparation of inspection reports. * Reviewing shop drawing submittals. Organize submittals and address questions from contractors during the construction ...

Project Bridge Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$100K - $140K/yr

Performing bridge and tunnel inspections and preparation of inspection reports. * Reviewing shop drawing submittals. Organize submittals and address questions from contractors during the construction ...

Project Bridge Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$100K - $140K/yr

Performing bridge and tunnel inspections and preparation of inspection reports. * Reviewing shop drawing submittals. Organize submittals and address questions from contractors during the construction ...

Perform on-site structural inspections, condition assessments, and evaluations of existing ... Expertise in bridge design principles; bridge inspection experience strongly preferred.

Structural Bridge Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Approved Team Leader by IDOT for NBIS Bridge Inspections (preferred). * Experience with DOT bridge design practices and standards. * Project experience with IDOT, Illinois Tollway, FDOT, and TxDOT ...

Bridge inspection and design will be your playground, where you can showcase your skills and expertise while having a real impact on communities. Your knowledge of structural components, including ...

Structural Bridge Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Approved Team Leader by IDOT for NBIS Bridge Inspections (preferred). * Experience with DOT bridge design practices and standards. * Project experience with IDOT, Illinois Tollway, FDOT, and TxDOT ...

Lead Structural Engineer - Bridge

Aurora, IL · On-site +1

$140K - $180K/yr

Bridge inspection and design will be your playground, where you can showcase your skills and expertise while having a real impact on communities. Your knowledge of structural components, including ...

Project types may include new structures as well as inspection, evaluation and rehabilitation of ... Expertise in bridge design principles and bridge inspection experience * Strong technical leader ...

Bridge inspection and design will be your playground, where you can showcase your skills and expertise while having a real impact on communities. Your knowledge of structural components, including ...

Our projects include new structure construction, including PT & rebar installation (stressing and grouting), bridge inspection/repair, unbonded PT repair, barrier cable installation and repair, FRP ...

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Bridge Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$71.7K

$129.8K

How much do bridge inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge inspector in Chicago, IL is $71,698.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,800.00 and $92,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Bridge Inspector vs Structural Engineer?

AspectBridge InspectorStructural Engineer
CertificationsTypically requires state-specific inspector certifications and safety trainingRequires a Professional Engineer (PE) license and engineering degree
Work EnvironmentOn-site inspections of bridges, often outdoors and in various weather conditionsDesign, analysis, and planning in offices or on-site for larger projects
Employer & Industry UsagePublic agencies, transportation departments, construction firmsEngineering consulting firms, construction companies, government agencies

Bridge Inspectors focus on evaluating the safety and condition of existing bridges through on-site inspections, while Structural Engineers design and analyze new or existing structures, including bridges. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their responsibilities and certifications differ significantly.

What does a Bridge Inspector do?

A Bridge Inspector is responsible for examining and evaluating the structural integrity and safety of bridges. They conduct regular inspections to identify any signs of wear, damage, or potential hazards, and document their findings in detailed reports. Bridge Inspectors often use specialized equipment and may work in challenging conditions to ensure that bridges meet safety standards and regulations. Their work is critical in preventing accidents and ensuring public safety on transportation infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced by bridge inspectors during fieldwork?

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. Field inspections may require specialized equipment and coordination with other engineers or traffic authorities. Adaptability, attention to detail, and strong communication skills are essential to overcome these challenges and ensure thorough, accurate inspections.

How do you become a bridge inspector?

To become a bridge inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience or training in civil engineering, construction, or related fields. Many positions require certification such as the National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) certification, and inspectors often need to pass physical exams and safety training. Gaining experience with structural analysis, inspection tools, and safety protocols is also important.

What Does a Bridge Inspector Do?

As a bridge inspector, your duties include monitoring construction sites, performing surveys and inspections, issuing violation notices or stop-work orders, creating written documentation, and reviewing plans to ensure compliance with ordinances, regulations, and building codes. Your responsibilities include ensuring a bridge (or another building) is safe from the design phase through to testing after construction. Being a bridge inspector requires you have some formal qualifications and education, typically at least a bachelor’s degree with a focus on building inspection and ideally further certification in building or bridge inspection. However, each state requires different training and skills from its inspectors, so be certain to check with your local regulatory agencies for particulars.

What inspector job pays the most?

Senior or specialized bridge inspectors with extensive experience, certifications, and advanced skills tend to earn the highest salaries in the inspection field. These roles often require additional training, such as NACE or NICET certifications, and may involve overseeing large projects or managing teams, which increases earning potential.

How much does a bridge inspector make?

The average salary for a bridge inspector in Florida is approximately $60,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level inspectors may earn less, while those with specialized skills or senior roles can earn higher salaries. The job often requires knowledge of inspection tools and safety standards.

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

To thrive as a Bridge Inspector, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, structural analysis, and inspection procedures, often supported by a degree in civil engineering or a related field and relevant certifications. Experience with inspection tools, nondestructive testing equipment, and familiarity with reporting software like AASHTOWare are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help inspectors identify issues and clearly convey findings. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure public safety, maintain infrastructure integrity, and comply with regulatory standards.

How much money do bridge inspectors make?

Bridge inspectors typically earn a median annual salary of around $65,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level inspectors may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in high-cost areas can earn over $90,000 annually. The job often requires knowledge of inspection tools and safety standards.
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 Bridge Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Bridge Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Bridge Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 77% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,698 per year, or $34.5 per hour.
Senior Engineer, Bridge Testing

$103K - $141K/yr

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Canadian National Railway rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 340 rated logistics


Job description

At CN, everyday brings new and exciting challenges. You can expect an interesting environment where you're part of making sure our business is running optimally and safely-helping keep the economy on track. We provide the kind of paid training and opportunities that long-term careers are built on and we recognize hard workers who strive to make a difference. You will be able to thrive in our close-knit, safety-focused culture working together as ONE TEAM. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us!

Job Summary

The Senior Engineer, Bridge Testing is responsible for managing, supervising and executing the bridge testing and remote monitoring programs, using various state-of-the-art field-testing methodologies and technologies. Moreover, the incumbent is responsible for research and development (R&D) of bridge testing and monitoring instrumentation, methodology, and safety improvement, either solely in-house or in collaboration with third-party developers, suppliers, providers, academic institutions or government and industry research agencies. The role provides timely information based on test results that are pertinent to decision making concerning slow order on bridges, subdivision load limits, acquisition of new railway locomotives and freight cars, and capacity rating procedure revisions for maintaining, strengthening, or replacing the bridge structures.

Main Responsibilities Bridge Testing

       Manage and review long-term strain gauge and acoustic emission bridge testing and bridge health monitoring programs

       Plan, organize, and execute the annual bridge testing and monitoring programs

       Coordinate with consultants and other CN departments to complete the program safely including establishing service procurement contracts

       Lead field operations

       Analyze test results and carry out structural analysis of the tested structures

       Make appropriate recommendations on repair, strengthening, and replacement options based on test results

       Provide relevant information to support management decisions

       Research and  implement improvements on bridge testing and monitoring methodology, equipment and technology

       Liaise on external collaboration with third-party developers, suppliers, providers, academic institutions or government and industry research agencies

       Review and assess new technologies for adaptation to internal bridge testing and monitoring improvements

Structural Assessment

       Analyze and rate various bridge spans on the network in accordance with CN and American Railway Engineering and Maintenance of Way Association (AREMA) guidelines

       Ensure requested assessments involved thorough review of the most current drawings and inspection reports

       Establish appropriate restrictions based on sound establishment of safe               load-carrying capacity of the structure

       Provide Assessment Reports with recommendations for bridge maintenance, strengthening, and replacement requirements as well as outline consequences for inaction

Safety

       Ensure personnel training are following applicable regulations

       Coordinate safety action plans at bridge testing and monitoring locations

       Ensure bridge testing vehicles, equipment and tools are in good working conditions

       Ensure conformance to work site safety rules

       Conduct in field and documentary audits of bridge inspection reports

       Participate in construction safety audits

Staff Supervision, Training and Development

       Supervise the functions and development of Officer, Bridge Testing

       Provide succession mentoring to Rating or Design Engineers for career progression as Bridge Testing Engineer

       Support the development of Junior Rating Engineer

       Aid and train other Bridge Assessment staff on the use of structural analysis and rating software applications

       Engage with academic and industry organizations on bridges and structures R&D

       Assist with delivery of Bridge Assessment and Bridge Inspection training programs

       Ensure that the Company's required training is completed in a timely manner

       Ascertain adherence to requirements for maintaining licensure as a Professional Engineer

Working Conditions

The role is performed in a combination of office and outdoor environments in various types of weather conditions. Due to the nature of the role, the incumbent must be able to meet tight deadlines, handle pressure, and stress. The role requires regular travel (50%) within Canada and the United States (U.S). The incumbent must be able to work at heights.

Requirements

Experience

Bridge Testing

       Minimum 10 years of experience in bridge engineering with a railway company or a consulting firm

o   Minimum 8 years of experience in bridge testing

Education/Certification/Designation

       Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

       Master's Degree in Civil Engineering, with a focus in Structural Engineering*

       Professional Engineering Licensure obtained either in Canada or the U.S.

       Ability to Certify in Railway Operating Rules (United States Operating Rules (USOR) or Canadian Rail Operating Rules (CROR))

       Ability to designate as a Railroad Bridge Engineer

       Valid Driver's Licence

       Licensed Structural Engineer*

*Any designation for these above would be considered as an asset

Competencies

       Applies critical thinking

       Demonstrates agility and drives change

       Sets direction and inspires others

       Demonstrates active listening

       Collaborates with others and shares information

       Seeks and values all perspectives

       Creates a sense of belonging and inclusion

       Identifies potential safety and security risks

       Develops self and others

       Provides recognition

Technical Skills/Knowledge

       Knowledge of data acquisition methods and technology

       Knowledge of railway bridge analysis, design, and rating principles and procedures

       Knowledge of the AREMA code for railway structures

       Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word), Systems, Applications, and Products (SAP) and CSiBridge or other integrated 3D Bridge Structural Analysis Application softwares.

       Strong programming and data analyses skills

       Knowledge of fall protection guidelines


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