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Underwater Bridge Inspector Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Underwater Bridge Inspector information

See Colorado salary details

$31.5K

$73.2K

$132.5K

How much do underwater bridge inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for underwater bridge inspector in Colorado is $73,199.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,800.00 and $94,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underwater bridge inspector?

Underwater bridge inspectors are professionals trained to examine the structural integrity and safety of bridges below the waterline. They use specialized diving equipment and inspection tools to assess underwater components like piers, footings, and foundations. Their work helps identify damage, corrosion, or other issues that could compromise bridge stability. These inspections are crucial for maintaining public safety and ensuring that bridges meet regulatory standards.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an underwater bridge inspector?

To thrive as an Underwater Bridge Inspector, you need strong skills in structural engineering, diving, and inspection procedures, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and commercial diving certification. Familiarity with underwater inspection equipment, non-destructive testing tools, and report-writing software is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurately assessing bridge conditions and conveying findings. These skills and qualities ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and the integrity of critical infrastructure.

What are common challenges faced by underwater bridge inspectors during inspections?

Underwater bridge inspectors often encounter challenges such as limited visibility, strong currents, and the presence of debris or marine growth on structural components. Working in these conditions requires excellent diving skills and the ability to adapt to changing underwater environments. Additionally, inspectors must carefully document findings and coordinate with engineers and other team members to ensure that any structural concerns are accurately reported and addressed.

What is the difference between Underwater Bridge Inspector vs Underwater Structural Inspector?

AspectUnderwater Bridge InspectorUnderwater Structural Inspector
CertificationsStructural engineering or civil engineering certifications, diving certificationsStructural engineering certifications, diving certifications
Work EnvironmentInspecting bridges underwater, often in freshwater or saltwater environmentsInspecting various underwater structures, including bridges, dams, and tunnels
Industry UsagePrimarily in transportation and civil engineering sectorsIn civil engineering, infrastructure, and construction sectors

Underwater Bridge Inspectors focus specifically on evaluating the condition of bridges submerged in water, ensuring safety and structural integrity. Underwater Structural Inspectors have a broader scope, assessing various underwater structures. Both roles require similar certifications and diving skills, but their work environments and specific responsibilities differ based on the structure type.

What are popular job titles related to Underwater Bridge Inspector jobs in Colorado?

For Underwater Bridge Inspector jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Underwater Bridge Inspector jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Underwater Bridge Inspector jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Underwater Bridge Inspector jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Underwater Bridge Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Underwater Bridge Inspector job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,199 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Bridge Inspection-Team Leader (48262)

Denver, CO

Collins Engineers, Inc
Civil Engineering Construction • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Collins is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm. We have opportunities for you.

Collins Engineers has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Bridge Inspection-Team Leader for our New Mexico and Denver, Colorado, inspection projects. This person will act as the project manager on moderately complex inspection projects with little oversight. This is a great opportunity for a team leader wanting to advance into project management! This candidate preferably will be in Albuquerque or Santa Fe, but anywhere in New Mexico will be considered.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Lead inspection teams and assist in successful completion of inspection/design projects.
  • Supervise above-water and underwater bridge and ancillary design, inspection, and evaluations.
  • Field work required, which could include nights and weekends.
  • Review, analyze, and provide recommendations on field and/or design issues or adaptations.
  • Assist in proposal preparation.
  • Prepare and monitor project budgets.
  • Prepare project schedules and timely completion of projects.
  • Perform moderately difficult engineering computations and estimates in designing engineering projects.
  • Prepare complete engineering plans or reports.
  • Direct and supervises the work of entry-level engineers, technicians, drafters, and administrative staff.
  • Coach field staff on the purpose and processes of inspections and inspection techniques.
  • Make independent decisions within a general framework.
  • Use computer-assisted engineering and design software and equipment to prepare engineering and design documents.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

*Relocation is available

 Click HERE to see the variety of benefits Collins has to offer.

Education and/or Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree and/or master’s degree in civil engineering from an accredited four-year university or a minimum of 4 to 5 years of bridge or ancillary structure inspection experience. 
  • Must have passed the NHI/FHWA Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges course #130055 and/or #130056.
  • NHI Fracture Critical Course preferred.
  • SPRAT certification a plus.
  • Experience with NDT and fracture critical inspections preferred.
  • Must have experience in AutoCAD, MicroStation, and Deltek.
  • Engineer-in-training (E.I.T.) certification required.
  • Professional engineer (P.E.) certification required.
  • NICET certification preferred.
  • Valid driver’s license.

Physical Demands: 

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to walk, sit, climb, or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • While in the field, the employee may be required to walk in rugged conditions, work in adverse weather conditions, and stand up to eight hours or more at a time.