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Underwater Bridge Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Underwater Bridge Inspector information

See Virginia salary details

$29.7K

$69K

$124.9K

How much do underwater bridge inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for underwater bridge inspector in Virginia is $69,016.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,100.00 and $89,200.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

Underwater Bridge Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underwater Bridge Inspector job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,016 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Team Leader - Bridge Inspection (48412)

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Collins Engineers Inc.
Civil Engineering Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Collins Engineers Inc.external

$93K - $124K/yr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Collins is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm. We have opportunities for you.
Collins is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Structural Inspection-Team Leader to play a key role on our team in Fairfax, Virginia, office. The ideal candidate will have experience in structural inspections and project management who can bring creative problem-solving skills balanced with a strong background in the field. This position requires the ability to manage projects, liaise with clients and government agencies, and direct teams. This role offers a great opportunity for a highly motivated, driven professional who is looking for career growth with a company pushing forward in the industry. This position is a mix of office and fieldwork with some local travel. We offer plenty of opportunities for growth, working with professionals who have decades of experience developing industry-defining techniques. The Team Leader is responsible for leading inspection teams and assisting in the successful completion of inspection and design projects.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Supervises above-water and underwater bridge and ancillary design, inspection, and evaluations.
  • Reviews, analyzes, and provides recommendations on field and/or design issues or adaptations.
  • Assists in proposal preparation.
  • Prepares and monitors project budgets.
  • Responsible for project schedules and timely completion of projects.
  • Responsible for moderately difficult engineering projects in field or office in accordance with plans and specifications.
  • Performs moderately difficult engineering computations and estimates in designing engineering projects.
  • Prepares complete engineering plans or reports.
  • Directs and supervises the work of entry-level engineers, technicians, drafters, and administrative staff.
  • Coaches field staff on the purpose and processes of inspections and inspection techniques.
  • Makes independent decisions within a general framework.
  • Uses computer-assisted engineering and design software and equipment to prepare engineering and design documents.
  • Is active in technical societies.
  • Is available to attend meetings or events outside of normal working hours.
  • Actively observes and acts in an appropriate manner related to safety.
  • Ancillary and sign structure inspections.
  • Above- and below-water bridge inspection including routine and fracture critical bridge inspections and reporting, bridge rehabilitation design, and bridge load ratings.
  • Design of bridges, transportation structures, earth retention structures, and waterfront structures.
  • Oil & gas refinery facilities inspections and repair design.
  • Field work required, which could include nights and weekends.
  • 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.
  • A minimum of 4-5 years of bridge or ancillary structure inspection experience.
  • Must have passed the NHI/FHWA Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges course number: FHWA-NHI-130055.
  • 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 control; 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.

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