1

Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FHWA-NHI-130091 Underwater Bridge Inspection * Certified Kirby Morgan Hat Technician * Ability to pass USDOT physical * Ability to pass ADCI medical examination * Valid state driver's license.

FHWA-NHI-130091 Underwater Bridge Inspection * Certified Kirby Morgan Hat Technician * Ability to pass USDOT physical * Ability to pass ADCI medical examination * Valid state driver's license.

Bridge Inspector

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$145K - $195K/yr

H&H is seeking a Bridge Inspector to join the firm's New York City Asset Management team. This ... Experience with rope access, climbing inspection methods, or underwater inspection is a plus

Bridge Inspector

New York, NY · On-site

$145K - $195K/yr

H&H is seeking a Bridge Inspector to join the firm's New York City Asset Management team. This ... Experience with rope access, climbing inspection methods, or underwater inspection is a plus

Bridge Inspector

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$145K - $195K/yr

H&H is seeking a Bridge Inspector to join the firm's New York City Asset Management team. This ... Experience with rope access, climbing inspection methods, or underwater inspection is a plus

Plan, schedule, and conduct bridge inspections in compliance with National Bridge Inspection ... FHWA-NHI-130091 Underwater Bridge Inspection * FHWA-NHI-130055 Safety Inspection of In-Service ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspection information

See salary details

$9

$22

$68

How much do freelance underwater bridge inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance underwater bridge inspection in the United States is $22.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspector, you need expertise in civil or structural engineering, commercial diving certification, and experience with inspection protocols and safety standards. Familiarity with underwater inspection tools such as sonar, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and reporting software is typically required. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for documenting findings and collaborating with project stakeholders. These skills are vital to ensure the structural integrity of bridges, maintain public safety, and comply with regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance underwater bridge inspectors, and how can they prepare for them?

Freelance underwater bridge inspectors often encounter challenges such as variable water visibility, strong currents, and unpredictable weather conditions, which can impact inspection schedules and safety. To prepare, inspectors should invest in high-quality diving and inspection equipment, stay updated on weather and water conditions, and maintain strong safety protocols. Networking with other professionals and staying current with industry certifications can also help manage the demands of working independently and securing consistent projects.

What does a Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspector do?

A Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspector is a professional who evaluates the structural integrity of bridges by examining parts that are submerged underwater. They use specialized diving equipment and inspection tools to assess elements like foundations, piers, and abutments for signs of damage, corrosion, or wear. Their findings are essential for ensuring the safety and longevity of bridges, as well as for planning maintenance or repairs. Freelance inspectors work independently, often contracting with engineering firms, government agencies, or construction companies.

What is the difference between Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspection vs Underwater Structural Engineer?

AspectFreelance Underwater Bridge InspectionUnderwater Structural Engineer
CertificationsCommercial diving certification, underwater inspection trainingEngineering degree, PE license, specialized structural certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-site at bridges, underwater, often remoteOffice-based design work, site visits, consulting
Industry UsageInspection, maintenance, safety assessmentsDesign, analysis, structural integrity evaluation
Search & Comparison IntentInspection services, freelance underwater workStructural analysis, engineering consulting

Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspectors focus on hands-on underwater assessments, often working independently or with diving teams. Underwater Structural Engineers typically handle design and analysis tasks, requiring advanced engineering credentials. While both roles involve underwater work, their certifications, responsibilities, and industry focus differ significantly.

More about Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspection jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspection jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspection job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Underwater Bridge Inspection jobs? The most popular types of Underwater Bridge Inspection jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspection jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspection jobs include:
Infographic showing various Freelance Underwater Bridge Inspection job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $47,772 per year, or $23 per hour.
Senior Certified Bridge Inspector

Senior Certified Bridge Inspector

Volkert Inc

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Volkert rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Are we the road to your future?

We are currently searching for an experienced Senior Certified Bridge Inspector to support our Southeast Region located in Maitland, FL, Tampa, FL, Miami, FL, or Sunrise, FL.

To be considered for this position, applicants must have, at minimum, a high school diploma or equivalent.

The candidate will be performing bridge safety inspections, writing, and reviewing inspection reports. Additionally, the candidate will be asked to assist with training of assistant inspectors as needed. The candidate will visit various bridges throughout Florida and possibly the United States to aid with structural inspections of bridges and other structures.

What you’ll be doing:

  • Perform bridge inspection, both topside and underwater, of culverts to large complex bridges and ancillary structures (signs, light poles, traffic signals)
  • Develop inspection reports and review
  • Office responsibilities will include report writing, review and data entry

What you need to have:

  • Minimum of 5 years of bridge and/or ancillary inspection experience is required
  • Understanding of national bridge inspection methods, Specifications for the Nation Bridge Inventory (SNBI), evaluations, and report preparation is required
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • Understanding of FDOT applications is preferred
  • Ability to travel out of state, overnight stays may be required
  • Ability to climb ladders, and work at heights.
  • Operation of areal platforms such as bucket trucks and under bridge inspection vehicles is preferred
  • Dive training and certification are preferred but not required
  • Boat operation skills are preferred.
  • Successful Completion of FHWA/NHI 130055 Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges is required with the completion of FHWA/NHI 130053 Bridge Inspection Refresher Training preferred if 130055 was completed more than 5 years ago
  • Successful completion of FHWA/NHI 130078 Bridge Inspection Techniques for Nonredundant Steel Tension Members (NSTM), FHWA/NHI 130091 Underwater Bridge Inspection, and FHWA/NHI 130087 Inspection of Ancillary Highway Structures are highly preferred
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening to ensure a safe and productive work environment. Volkert adheres to federal guidelines, which may include testing for substances such as marijuana. Please note that federal regulations may differ from state-specific guidelines
  • If applicable to the position, a post offer fit for duty evaluation to ensure the individual can safely perform the essential functions of the role
  • Valid driver’s license
  • A satisfactory motor vehicle report (MVR)

Why Volkert?

Volkert is employee owned and a Top 100 design firm, committed to providing clients with creative solutions for sustainability, including improvements to infrastructure, the environment, and natural resources. Founded in 1925, Volkert is celebrating a century of serving our employees, clients, partners, and communities. At Volkert, we pride ourselves on providing all of our employees with competitive compensation, positive work/life balance, and professional development opportunities, as well as fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace in all of our offices nationwide.

Key Benefits:

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan + employer matching
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and holidays
  • Employer-Paid Life/AD&D insurance
  • Employer-Paid short-term disability and long-term disability
  • Wellness incentives
  • Student Debt Retirement Match
  • Additional voluntary benefits

The words from our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Thomas A. Hand, PE, capture best how you can make an impact while working for Volkert.

“For a century, Volkert has done meaningful work that improves our infrastructure and quality of life throughout our communities. We are proud of our one-hundred-year legacy and humbled by the opportunities ahead of us as we look forward to our next century of service. With our commitment to employee ownership and sustainable growth, you can build a career here that really makes a difference.”

– Thomas A. Hand, PE, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer

EOE-Race/Sex/Vets/Disabled

Volkert does not accept unsolicited resumes from headhunters, recruitment agencies or fee-based recruitment services.

#LI-HF1 Florida