1

Underwater Bridge Inspector Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Underwater Bridge Inspector information

See Indiana salary details

$28.5K

$66.2K

$119.9K

How much do underwater bridge inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for underwater bridge inspector in Indiana is $66,241.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $85,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Underwater Bridge Inspector jobs in Indiana? For Underwater Bridge Inspector jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Underwater Bridge Inspector jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Underwater Bridge Inspector jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Underwater Bridge Inspector jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Underwater Bridge Inspector job openings:

Bridge Inspection Area Engineer

State of Indiana

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 hours ago


State Of Indiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 50 rated states


Job description

Work for Indiana
Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.
About the Indiana Department of Transportation:
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) provides a dynamic workplace that serves Indiana citizens, improves our state's quality of life, and enhances its economic opportunity. INDOT has a number of innovative programs and projects, including Public-Private Partnerships, Green Initiatives, and cutting-edge uses of materials and assets. As part of the State of Indiana, INDOT offers a competitive total compensation package, as well as outstanding work/life balance. Whether you are an established professional in the transportation field or just starting your career, INDOT has exciting and challenging opportunities for you.
Role Overview:
This supervisory position is with INDOT Central Office; however, work around the state will be required. This position requires a Professional Engineer license, and it is preferable that the applicant meets INDOT and FHWA qualifications for Bridge Inspection Team Leader certification, or have experience with bridge inspection, design, and/or construction to allow obtaining such certification. Incumbent oversees 3 district bridge inspection teams, serving as the liaison between the districts and Central Office. The Bridge Inspection Area Engineer position is within the INDOT Bridge Asset Management Department, and the incumbent is a central office employee responsible for the supervision, operational performance, and inspector training for the state bridge inspection teams within their assigned districts of responsibility. Incumbent supervises the senior bridge inspection engineer supervisors in coordinating inspection operations, reporting inspection findings, and assisting the Bridge Inspection State Program Manager (SPM) in providing strategic direction for INDOT's bridge inspection program through development and implementation of policies and procedures. This position is responsible for ensuring that all inspections of bridges, large culverts, and retaining walls within their Districts are completed within the required inspection intervals and that inspection findings are reported accurately and timely. This position directly impacts public safety, the state's compliance with federal bridge inspection regulations according to the FHWA National Bridge Inspection Standard, and to protect public investment in Indiana's infrastructure. All training, equipment, and tools will be provided to be successful in this position, including a State-owned take-home vehicle. Bridge Inspection Area Engineer Duties include:
  • Oversee operations for 3 bridge district inspection teams with regards to all state-owned bridge, large culvert, and retaining wall inspections.
  • Oversee Routine, NSTM, In-Depth, Special, and Underwater bridge inspections for quality and compliance with FHWA bridge inspection regulations (23 CFR 650).
  • Assist Bridge Inspection SPM in developing and implementing statewide bridge inspection policies, procedures, and compliance requirements.
  • Carry out annual QC/QA reviews on both state and local bridges to ensure compliance with the National Bridge Inspection Standards.
  • Establish performance expectations and completes appraisals of subordinates.
  • Determines specialized bridge inspection needs.
  • Attend training sessions and conferences to learn new inspection techniques and requirements.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Assist district team leads with prioritization and execution of biennial inspections.

Location:
This position is with INDOT's Central Office.
Salary:
The salary for this position traditionally starts at $85,020.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.
Actual offered salary for this position may be higher based on relevant education, training, certifications, and bridge-related experience.
A Day in the Life:
The essential functions of this role are as follows:
  • Develop engineering policies and plans projects concerned with unique or controversial problems which have a significant impact on major organizational programs.
  • Provide budgetary information, researches and makes recommendations to assist with long range planning.
  • Evaluate engineering policies, recommends revisions, and approves and implements policies.
  • Evaluate the impact of changes to engineering policies, procedures and standards having statewide implications, makes recommendations to supervisor, integrates changes in existing programs, and directs research and evaluation efforts.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time.
This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.
What You'll Need for Success:
Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:
  • Registered Professional Engineers license in Indiana required.
  • Must possess a valid Indiana driver's license.
  • Broad knowledge of civil/transportation disciplines. Understanding of department design standards, policies, and practices. Understanding of the NEPA and NHPA processes. Knowledge of various computer applications such as CAD, spreadsheets, databases, and scheduling. Knowledge of various forms of traffic operations analysis such as capacity analysis and crash analysis. Knowledge of alternatives development, decision-making, and engineering economic analysis.
  • Must be able to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications, define problems, collect appropriate data, establish facts, define, and communicate with stakeholders and draw valid engineering solutions. Must be able to handle routine and sensitive contacts with government officials, consulting firms/contractors and the public.
  • Ability to identify problems; determine accuracy and relevance of information; use sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives and to make recommendations.
  • Ability to plan and develop engineering projects with unique or controversial problems and/or novel engineering related concepts and approaches.

A degree is not required. However, at least four (4) years of professional experience in engineering, civil engineering, transportation research, or a closely related field. Two (2) years of experience as a group or project leader providing work direction and training to engineering technicians and/or lower-level engineers, or two (2) years experience in conducting engineering-related research applying the outlined knowledge, skills, and abilities in a similar role may be considered.
Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may provide direct supervision for one or more staff members.
Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:
  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:
The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.
Current Employee? Click here to apply.

What State Of Indiana employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom