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Temporary Bridge Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Temporary Bridge Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$71.7K

$129.8K

How much do temporary bridge inspector jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary bridge inspector in Chicago, IL is $71,711.00, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temporary Bridge Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Bridge Inspector, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, knowledge of bridge construction methods, and typically a degree in civil engineering or related field, as well as relevant certifications like NBIS (National Bridge Inspection Standards) compliance. Familiarity with inspection tools, bridge management software, and digital reporting systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help inspectors identify issues and clearly report findings. These abilities are crucial for ensuring public safety, maintaining infrastructure integrity, and meeting regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Temporary Bridge Inspectors, and how can they be managed?

Temporary Bridge Inspectors often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to different bridge types, varying site conditions, and working outdoors in all weather. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, effective communication with engineering teams, and a commitment to safety protocols. Building rapport with permanent staff and being proactive in seeking clarification on site-specific procedures can help ensure a smooth inspection process and successful project completion.

What are Temporary Bridge Inspectors?

Temporary Bridge Inspectors are professionals hired for a limited period to assess the safety and condition of bridges. They perform visual and sometimes hands-on inspections to identify structural issues, wear, and compliance with safety standards. Their work is crucial during construction projects, after natural disasters, or when regular staff are unavailable. These inspectors help ensure bridges remain safe for public use until permanent solutions or repairs can be made.

What is the difference between Temporary Bridge Inspector vs Bridge Inspector?

AspectTemporary Bridge InspectorBridge Inspector
CertificationsOften requires OSHA safety training, basic engineering knowledgeRequires similar certifications, often including state-specific licensing or certifications
Work EnvironmentTemporary projects, short-term assignments, construction sitesLong-term inspections, ongoing maintenance, and safety assessments
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, civil engineering firms, government agencies during projectsPublic agencies, transportation departments, engineering firms for routine inspections

Temporary Bridge Inspectors focus on short-term, project-based inspections during construction or repair phases, while Bridge Inspectors typically perform ongoing, routine assessments of bridge safety and maintenance. Both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, but their scope and duration differ.

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 Temporary Bridge Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Temporary Bridge Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
SURFACE MAINTENANCE MECHANIC INSPECTOR (TITLE 32)

SURFACE MAINTENANCE MECHANIC INSPECTOR (TITLE 32)

Army National Guard Units

North Riverside, IL • On-site, Remote

$35.46 - $41.38/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Army National Guard rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.
This National Guard position is for a SURFACE MAINTENANCE MECHANIC INSPECTOR (TITLE 32), Position Description Number D1285000 and is part of the IL FMS 16 in Bloomington, IL, National Guard.
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Duties
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As a SURFACE MAINTENANCE MECHANIC INSPECTOR (TITLE 32), WG-5801-11, you will serve as an inspector of surface maintenance equipment to ensure that physical and operating characteristics are within acceptable standards and specifications.
Major Duties - This is NOT an all-inclusive list:
  • Inspect a large variety of heavy-duty mobile equipment (i.e., combat, tactical, etc.) and automotive vehicles (i.e., attack tanks, large cranes, tank retrievers, fire trucks, bridge transporters, armored vehicle launched bridges, bulldozers, road graders, crawler tractors, power shovels, self-propelled earth compacting equipment, self-propelled artillery, etc.).
  • Inspect complex, interrelated mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electronic and electrical systems, equipment and their components while in operation or in a standby condition.
  • Inspect and perform tests to braking, steering, and differential systems, which are mechanically integrated with the transmission; to large engines, which directly power multiple hydraulic and pneumatic systems; to intricate fuel injection systems; to turret stabilization systems; and to other systems combined in a single, complex mechanical assembly.
  • Use specially designed testing methods and test equipment such as computerized test sets, precision gauges, electronic sensors, injector test stands, engine scopes, etc., to assure that tolerance and safety factors have been met.
  • Inspect equipment to determine repairs needed.
  • Utilize established Maintenance Expenditure Limits (MEL) to evaluate economic feasibility of repair(s).

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • This is an excepted service position that requires membership in the Illinois National Guard and in the military grade listed in the announcement. This is required prior to the effective date of placement. If you are not sure you are eligible for military membership, please contact a National Guard recruiter prior to applying for this position.
  • Selectee will be required to wear a military uniform.
  • Acceptance of an excepted service position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment.
  • Males born after 31 December 1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
  • May be required to successfully complete a trial period.
  • This position is covered by the Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment (30 Sep 96) of the Gun Control Act (Lautenberg Amendment) of 1968. An individual convicted of a qualifying crime of domestic violence may not perform the duties of this position.
  • IAW The Fair Chance Act, Agency employees may not request criminal history information at the point of initial application, upon receipt of an application, or prior to, during or after a job interview. If an Optional Form (OF) 306, Declaration of Employment is submitted prior to the point of a conditional offer, questions related to background information section may not be asked.
  • Irregular and/or overtime (compensatory) hours may be required to support operational requirements or contingencies or may be required to work hours outside of the normal duty day.
  • Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.

Qualifications
AREA OF CONSIDERATION: The areas of considerations for this position, Title 32 Excepted Service (32 U.S. Code § 709), the only area of consideration for this position will be all excepted permanent and indefinite temporary technicians within the ILNG.
Military Grades: Enlisted/Warrant Officer - E4-CW3
GENERAL EXPERIENCE: MUST possess experience or training which demonstrates knowledge of equipment to be able to do routine jobs, simple preventative maintenance tasks, and can use common tools and equipment in the line of work.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: WG-11 Level MUST possess experience or training leading to an extensive knowledge of the mechanical makeup, operation, and working relationships of complex interconnecting systems, assemblies, and parts for a variety of combat, tactical, commercial, special purpose vehicles, and equipment; ability to diagnose, repair, overhaul, and modify interconnected complex systems on a variety of combat, tactical, commercial, special purpose vehicles, and equipment; extensive knowledge of state of the art electrical, electronic, complex hydraulic, pneumatic, and other major non-mechanical systems that have a functional relationship and effect on the operation of major mechanical systems; extensive knowledge of hydraulic lifting, loading, turning, and positioning systems and their mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and electronic controls; skill and knowledge to develop or improvise methods, alter parts, and make repairs in the absence of technical guidelines (such as modifying parts to fit and mesh into systems for which the parts were not designed); improvise modifications to equipment to correct recurring malfunctions; and design modifications to meet special test requirements or other special needs.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Verbiage displayed on your resume or application must contain your own words. You may refer to position descriptions, i.e. the general and specialized experience located within the vacancy announcement, to assist with describing work experiences; however, resumes or applications received in verbatim will not be considered. In your resume you will need to address the general and specialized experience listed below. Please use as much detail as needed, giving dates (months and years) of the experience, position title and how the experience was gained. This information is needed to determine if you are qualified for the position.
Education
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone. No substitution of education for experience is permitted for this occupational series and grade.
Additional information
If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (Register | Selective Service System : Selective Service System (sss.gov)).
If you are needing some extra information regarding Federal Resumes, you should consider these tips from USA Jobs: USAJOBS Help Center | What should I include in my federal resume?
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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About Army National Guard

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The Army National Guard, headquartered in Arlington, VA, is a key constituent of the United States military, falling under the sector of Defense and Public Safety. Since its founding in 1636, it has served dual roles as both a state and federal military force that is activated in response to domestic emergencies and overseas combat missions. The Army National Guard embodies core values, including loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, intending to uphold peace and serve the nation with unwavering dedication.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US