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Railroad Bridge Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Ensure accuracy of engineering design, reports, load ratings, and plans. Work product must be prepared with a focus on quality, presentation ...

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Ensure accuracy of engineering design, reports, load ratings, and plans. Work product must be prepared with a focus on quality, presentation ...

Rail Bridge Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$108K - $150K/yr

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Ensure accuracy of engineering design, reports, load ratings, and plans. Work product must be prepared with a focus on quality, presentation ...

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Ensure accuracy of engineering design, reports, load ratings, and plans. Work product must be prepared with a focus on quality, presentation ...

Rail Bridge Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$108K - $150K/yr

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Ensure accuracy of engineering design, reports, load ratings, and plans. Work product must be prepared with a focus on quality, presentation ...

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Ensure accuracy of engineering design, reports, load ratings, and plans. Work product must be prepared with a focus on quality, presentation ...

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Participate in non-design engineering activities such as construction inspection and field data collection. * Lead design and project management ...

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Participate in non-design engineering activities such as construction inspection and field data collection. * Lead design and project management ...

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Participate in non-design engineering activities such as construction inspection and field data collection. * Lead design and project management ...

Sr. Rail Bridge Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$147K - $180K/yr

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Participate in non-design engineering activities such as construction inspection and field data collection. * Lead design and project management ...

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Participate in non-design engineering activities such as construction inspection and field data collection. * Lead design and project management ...

Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges. * Participate in non-design engineering activities such as construction inspection and field data collection. * Lead design and project management ...

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Showing results 1-20

Railroad Bridge Inspector information

See California salary details

$29.6K

$68.7K

$124.3K

How much do railroad bridge inspector jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for railroad bridge inspector in California is $68,701.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,900.00 and $88,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Railroad Bridge Inspector job?

A Railroad Bridge Inspector is responsible for examining railroad bridges and related structures to ensure they are safe and comply with federal and industry regulations. They assess structural integrity, identify defects or potential hazards, and recommend repairs or maintenance. Inspectors often use specialized equipment, work at heights, and document their findings through reports. Their role is crucial in preventing accidents and ensuring the reliability of rail infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Railroad Bridge Inspector position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Railroad Bridge Inspector, you need in-depth knowledge of structural engineering, bridge construction, and inspection procedures, often supported by a degree in civil engineering or equivalent experience and specialized certifications. Familiarity with inspection tools such as ultrasonic testing devices, drones, and industry-standard reporting software like Bentley InspectTech is typical. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and clear communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate assessments, regulatory compliance, and the ongoing safety and reliability of railroad infrastructure.

What does a typical work week look like for a Railroad Bridge Inspector?

A typical week for a Railroad Bridge Inspector involves traveling to various bridge sites, conducting detailed structural inspections, and documenting findings in compliance with federal safety standards. Inspectors often work both independently and as part of a team, coordinating with engineers, railroad maintenance crews, and regulatory agencies to address any issues found during assessments. The role may include a mix of scheduled inspections as well as urgent evaluations following extreme weather events or incidents. Inspectors can expect a mix of office-based reporting and significant fieldwork, sometimes in challenging outdoor conditions. This dynamic work environment helps ensure the ongoing safety and functionality of critical rail infrastructure while providing opportunities for professional growth in transportation and civil engineering fields.
What are popular job titles related to Railroad Bridge Inspector jobs in California? For Railroad Bridge Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Railroad Bridge Inspector jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Railroad Bridge Inspector jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Railroad Bridge Inspector job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 77% Physical, 22% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,701 per year, or $33 per hour.

$108K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

GFT is seeking a Rail Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation Team in one of the following SoCAL offices: Santa Ana, Los Angeles, Irvine, or San Diego, CA! This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at one of these offices.

Working on the Transportation team at GFT offers the opportunity to engage in transformative projects that enhance transportation infrastructure and improve community connectivity. Bridge design has been a core strength of ours for over a century, ranging from concrete or steel highway bridges to commuter, freight, or high-speed rail bridges. You will have the opportunity to work on complex rail projects for Class I railroads, short lines and transit agencies such as Merchant Bridge Replacement and Retrofit. 

What you'll be challenged to do:

You will participate in complex design tasks for rail bridge projects. This role includes elements of structural design, rehabilitation, and inspection of bridges and other structures along with the preparation of load ratings, construction documents, specifications, and estimates. You will leverage your technical capabilities and excellent verbal and written communication skills,  to effectively work with a team across multiple disciplinary projects. You will travel for project related work, with a willingness to work in the field conducting bridge inspections.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following: 

  • Perform structural bridge analysis and design utilizing current AREMA and owners' design standards. Calculate structural quantities.
  • Perform bridge inspections for railway bridges.
  • Ensure accuracy of engineering design, reports, load ratings, and plans. Work product must be prepared with a focus on quality, presentation, thoroughness, and follow-through; with conformance to budgets, schedules, and company standards
  • Assures the project meets quality control and quality assurance guidelines.
  • Perform detailed checking of calculations and design drawings produced by others.
  • Assist with CADD drawing development and production.
  • Document and organize design calculations following GFT's Quality Management Plan.
  • Interpret changes in the contract and advises management on needed changes.
  • Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
What you will bring to our firm: 
  • Bachelor's degree in civil/structural engineering with an emphasis in structures from an ABET-accredited university or college.
  • A minimum of 4 years' professional experience with an emphasis on structural design for Class I and transit bridge projects.
  • Engineer-in-Training E.I.T. License
  • Structures design experience utilizing AREMA Manual for Railroad Engineering.
  • Familiarity with Class I railroad bridge standards.
  • Structural engineering background, knowledge of MicroStation and experience with structural engineering design drawings, specifications and cost estimates.
  • Team oriented engineer with strong communication skills.
  • Knowledge of MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, etc.), and experience with engineering design packages and structural analysis software systems such as LEAP Bridge Concrete, LPILE, GROUP, RISA or CSiBridge.
  • Willingness to travel within the continental United States.
  • Physically capable of performing field work including working at heights, carrying ladders and gear, working in adverse weather conditions, etc.
  • Valid Driver's License. 
What we prefer you bring: 
  • Registration as a licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) and/or Structural Engineer (S.E.) preferred.
  • Master's degree in civil/structural engineering with an emphasis in structures from an ABET-accredited university or college.
  • AREMA member and Committee 7, 8, 9, 10 or 15 member.
  • Experience working directly with Class I railroads. 
Compensation:The salary range for this role is $108,000 - $150,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location. Featured Benefits:  Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment. Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan. Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual. Tuition reimbursement for continued education. Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

Location: Santa Ana, CA; Irvine, CA; Los Angeles, CA Oor San Diego, CA

Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time Salary Range: $147,000 - $180,000Salary dependent upon experience and geographic location

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME