1

Bridge Inspector Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Senior Bridge Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI

$102K - $140K/yr

Plan, direct, and deliver projects that include bridge design, bridge rehabilitation, bridge inspection and structures design on DOT and local agency projects. This position may include being ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

The primary responsibilities of the Senior Bridge Engineer include: • Plan, direct, and deliver projects that include bridge design, bridge rehabilitation, bridge inspection and structures design ...

Showing results 21-40

Bridge Inspector information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$29.6K

$68.8K

$124.5K

How much do bridge inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for bridge inspector in Detroit, MI is $68,785.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $88,900.00 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 popular job titles related to Bridge Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Bridge Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Bridge Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Bridge Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Bridge Inspector jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Bridge Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Bridge Inspector job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,785 per year, or $33.1 per hour.

Structural Bridge Engineer - #2670.20

Wade Trim

Detroit, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Wade Trim rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

What We Offer:
Our excellent salary and benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability coverage, education reimbursement, 401(k), performance bonuses, and an employee stock program. Employee Resource Groups and Programs offered include the Young Professionals Group, Women at Wade Trim, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Professional Development, Leadership Development, Mentor Program, Sustainability Program, and Wellness Program.
Position Description:
We are looking for a Structural Bridge Engineer to strengthen and increase our footprint in the Transportation Market Segment in the Midwest and southern regions. Candidates must have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering with an emphasis in structural engineering, a minimum of seven years of transportation structural/bridge design experience, a PE license and a current NHI Bridge Inspection certification (preferred). Familiarity with structural analysis and design of conventional and complex bridges is essential and experience in preparing MDOT, ODOT, or other DOT's, and Local Agency bridge design packages is also required. Software experience with AutoCAD/Civil 3D, MicroStation/Geopak/ORD as well as knowledge of AASHTO, AREMA, and DOT design standards are preferred. Excellent technical writing, organization and communication skills are essential. Candidates must be self-motivated and able to work independently and collaboratively with others. A flexible hybrid-remote/office work schedule is available.
Typical responsibilities include:
  • Technical lead roles in design and management of conventional and complex bridges for our growing organization
  • Technical lead for analysis, design, construction support services for various bridge types, culverts, earth retaining structures and other underground structures
  • Prepare Plans, Specifications, and Estimate (PS&E) packages using federal, state, and local specifications, guidelines and standards
  • Design and manage civil projects that include bridges, culverts, earth retaining structures and other underground structures along with miscellaneous infrastructure design improvements
  • Conduct various types of bridge load ratings
  • Ability to conduct bridge inspections/scoping and condition assessments
  • Strong technical writing, analytical and communication skills
  • Interact with other civil engineering disciplines during design
  • Prepare federal, state, and local permits
  • Detail oriented with an emphasis on quality work products and deliverables
  • Lead efforts on proposals, marketing, project reports and technical presentations
  • Assist with and monitor scope, budget, and schedule for new and existing projects
  • Mentor staff to support their growth and professional development
  • Attend client, public, project, and staff meetings including client progress, plan review, pre-construction, etc. depending on client and project requirements
  • Maintain a safe working environment

Education:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering with an emphasis on structural engineering is required

Skills/Experience:
  • 7 years of transportation structural design experience required
  • Licensed Professional Engineer required
  • Familiarity with structural analysis and design of conventional and complex bridges is essential and experience in preparing MDOT, ODOT, other DOT's, and Local Agency bridge design packages is required
  • Current NHI Bridge Inspection certification is preferred, or ability to obtain certification
  • Software experience with AutoCAD/Civil 3D, MicroStation/Geopak/ORD as well as knowledge of AASHTO, AREMA, and DOT design standards are preferred

About Wade Trim:
Wade Trim is committed to maximizing the value of infrastructure investments. We've been solving complex engineering challenges for a century. We customize our work approach to fit each project using a collaborative, friendly style to deliver solutions our clients can stand behind.
Our supportive culture recognizes and strives to fulfill collective client, company, and individual needs. Mentoring and building skills of Wade Trim staff is a priority. Frequent interaction among staff is encouraged, company leadership is easily accessible, and opportunities are provided for staff to help shape the firm's future through strategic planning. Work/life balance is supported through a flexible, hybrid work schedule that brings team members together in the office at least three days a week and connects them virtually when working from home.
To solve our clients' toughest challenges, we've devoted ourselves to delivering innovative solutions. Our Office of Applied Technology (OAT) is dedicated to seeking new technologies or ways to apply existing technologies to enhance value to our clients and positively impact communities. All staff are encouraged to share ideas and suggestions for innovative technologies or processes to adopt. This open-minded approach enables us to advance technology, foster innovation, and stay ahead of our clients' needs.
Wade Trim's success is shared by the employees that make it happen. Since our beginning, our firm has been 100% employee owned. This cultivates an ownership mindset that benefits our work approach, collaborative culture, and ability to deliver client solutions. We believe employee ownership drives the sustainability and growth of our firm and provides all our employees with opportunities for financial success.
If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career in a friendly environment, please submit your resume by visiting the Careers section of our website at http://www.wadetrim.com/careers.
Wade Trim does not accept unsolicited resumes, candidate profiles, or CVs from third-party recruiters or employment agencies. Any submission made without a valid, signed agreement and an approved engagement request from Wade Trim's People Services Team will be considered the property of Wade Trim. Wade Trim reserves the right to pursue and hire any candidate submitted through unsolicited means without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. A valid agreement can only be signed by the Director of People Services. Resumes or candidate profiles submitted at the request of a Wade Trim employee who is not authorized by the People Services team do not constitute a valid engagement. Recruiters and agencies must have a current, written agreement authorized by the Director of People Services to be considered an approved vendor.
Wade Trim is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.

What Wade Trim employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom