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Bridge Inspector Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Perform construction inspection activities and assist in the administration of highway, bridge, rail, and tunnel construction projects. More specifically: * Apply safety philosophy to all job ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Contribute to meaningful bridge projects--from inspections and rehabilitation to complex structural design--that improve safety and extend the life of critical infrastructure * Work alongside bridge ...

Perform construction inspection activities and assist in the administration of highway, bridge, rail, and tunnel construction projects. More specifically: * Apply safety philosophy to all job ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Contribute to meaningful bridge projects--from inspections and rehabilitation to complex structural design--that improve safety and extend the life of critical infrastructure * Work alongside bridge ...

Mid-Level Inspector

Columbia, SC · On-site

$55K - $63K/yr

Perform construction inspection activities and assist in the administration of highway, bridge, rail, and tunnel construction projects. More specifically: * Apply safety philosophy to all job ...

Mid-Level Inspector

Columbia, SC · On-site

$55K - $63K/yr

Perform construction inspection activities and assist in the administration of highway, bridge, rail, and tunnel construction projects. More specifically: * Apply safety philosophy to all job ...

Perform construction inspection activities and assist in the administration of highway, bridge, rail, and tunnel construction projects. More specifically: * Apply safety philosophy to all job ...

Showing results 41-60

Bridge Inspector information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$27.8K

$64.4K

$116.6K

How much do bridge inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge inspector in Columbia, SC is $64,401.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,200.00 and $83,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

How much 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 with specialized skills can earn over $90,000 annually.

What are the most commonly searched types of Bridge Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Bridge Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Bridge Inspector job openings in Columbia, SC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,401 per year, or $31 per hour.

Inspector

Columbia, SC • On-site

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT)
Construction • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson rating

9.8

Company rating: 9.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee-owned consulting firm with more than 2,800 professionals, providing a full range of multidisciplinary engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #45 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.

JMT's Construction Management Team is seeking Inspectors to apply standard inspection procedures on ongoing activities, in the state of South Carolina, during and after roadway and bridge construction for quality, safety and conformance to plans and specifications. 

Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g. H1B, F-1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification.

Higher level Inspector positions are also available in the SC and surrounding communities.  Qualified candidates with extensive experience in inspection and regulatory compliance are encouraged to apply. We offer training, professional career development opportunities, and a collaborative work environment aimed at fostering growth and excellence. Join us in ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality in the industry.

This position is available in multiple locations within South Carolina and can be discussed with the hiring manager during an interview.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Review and interpret plans, site layouts, specifications and construction methods to ensure compliance to legal requirements and safety regulations. 
  • Performs routine tests on concrete, soils and other materials
  • Measure dimensions and verify level, alignment, and elevation of structures, fixtures, grades and/or pavement to ensure compliance to plans and codes.
  • Gathers and maintains record documents
  • Makes field notes and computations 

Nonessential Functions and Responsibilities 

  • Perform other related duties as assigned 

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