Bridge Inspection Team Leader

PRIME AE Group, Inc.; New Albany (IN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

PRIME AE Group, Inc. is seeking a Bridge Inspection Team Leader to join our Bridge Inspection Group in New Albany, IN, Indianapolis, IN, or Jacksonville, FL. You will own inspection planning, field execution, documentation, and client coordination while ensuring NBIS, FRA, and agency standards are met.

This hands-on leadership role requires strong technical judgment, field coordination, and the ability to lead teams in demanding environments with significant travel across the U.S.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering/Engineering Technology from ABET-accredited program.
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid, unrestricted driver’s license.
• FHWA/NHI Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges certification (130055/130056) and Refresher (130053).
• FHWA/NHI Nonredundant Steel Tension Member (Fracture Critical) Certification (130078) preferred.
• ANSI 92.24/92.22 Mobile Elevated Work Platforms/Snooper training.
• OSHA Fall Protection and Confined Space certification.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise bridge inspection field operations.
• Coordinate field logistics and guide inspection personnel.
• Interact with clients and provide engineering judgment on defects.
• Mentor junior inspectors and ensure training is current.
• Ensure compliance with NBIS, FRA, and agency standards.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering/Engineering Technology

Tools

Manlift

Bucket truck

Under-bridge inspection units

Job description

We Make Everything Around Us Better

At PRIME AE, that’s not a slogan, it’s how we work.

Every bridge, building, campus, park, and roadway we design exists to improve how people live, move, learn, and connect. Through architecture, engineering, planning, and consulting, we partner with clients to create thoughtful, practical solutions that leave communities stronger than we found them.

If you want your work to matter, and to be surrounded by smart, collaborative people who care about doing things the right way, you’ll feel at home here.

Who We Are:

PRIME AE Group, Inc. is a nationally ranked, full‑service architecture and engineering firm with 24 offices across 10 states and a team of 500+ professionals. For nearly two decades, we’ve partnered with public and private sector clients across transportation, education, healthcare, municipal, federal, commercial, and recreational markets.

We’re growing, strategically and intentionally. That means expanding our capabilities, investing in our people, and building teams that are positioned for long‑term success.

The Opportunity:

We are currently seeking a Bridge Inspection Team Leader to join our Bridge Inspection Group in our New Albany or Indianapolis, IN or Jacksonville, FL offices to support and lead structural inspection programs for state, federal, and railroad clients.

This position serves as a technical and field leader within our inspection practice. You will take ownership of inspection planning, field execution, documentation, and client coordination while ensuring compliance with NBIS, FRA, and agency‑specific standards. This is a hands‑on leadership role requiring strong technical judgment, logistical coordination skills, and the ability to lead inspection teams in complex and demanding field environments.

What You’ll Do:

You will lead and supervise bridge and ancillary structure inspections, ensuring safe, efficient, and technically sound execution of field activities.

You will coordinate field logistics, guide inspection personnel, interact directly with clients, and provide engineering judgment when structural concerns are identified.

Travel is a significant component of this role and includes multi‑day field assignments throughout the U.S., with occasional international travel possible.

Key Responsibilities

Field Leadership & Execution

• Plan, organize, and lead bridge inspection field operations.
• Review bridge plans and prior inspection reports to prepare for field activities.
• Assign and supervise team members during inspections and related office tasks.
• Prepare and implement health & safety plans and traffic control plans.
• Ensure compliance with NBIS, FRA, and agency‑specific inspection standards.

Technical Inspection Oversight

• Perform and supervise inspections of complex and signature bridges, ancillary structures, and related highway infrastructure.
• Evaluate structural conditions and make sound engineering decisions when critical defects are identified.
• Operate specialized inspection access equipment (manlift, bucket truck, under‑bridge inspection units) as required.
• Accurately document findings through detailed notes, sketches, and digital photography.
• Prepare complete and accurate inspection reports in accordance with applicable manuals and standards.

Coordination & Client Interaction

• Schedule and coordinate inspection activities with clients, railroads, police agencies, subcontractors, and equipment vendors.
• Maintain professional communication with regulatory agencies and stakeholders.
• Mentor junior inspectors and support skill development within the team.
• Ensure professional certifications and required training remain current.

What You’ll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering/Engineering Technology from an ABET‑accredited institution.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE).
• 5+ years of bridge inspection experience.
• Valid, unrestricted driver’s license.
• FHWA/NHI “Safety Inspection of In‑Service Bridges” certification (130055 or 130056) and Refresher (130053).
• FHWA/NHI Nonredundant Steel Tension Member (Fracture Critical) Certification (130078) preferred.
• ANSI 92.24/92.22 Mobile Elevated Work Platforms/Snooper training.
• OSHA Fall Protection and Confined Space certification.
• Physical ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and in challenging weather conditions.
• Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage field teams effectively.
• Flexibility to work schedules that may extend beyond standard hours.
• Willingness to travel throughout the continental U.S.; occasional international travel may be required.

Why PRIME AE:

We don’t just fill positions; we invest in people.

At PRIME AE, you’ll find a supportive, flexible environment where careers are built intentionally, not accidentally. You’ll work on projects that improve everyday life, alongside colleagues who challenge and respect one another.

What sets us apart:

• Career Growth: Flexible career paths across disciplines, from technical expertise to project and people leadership.
• People‑First Culture: We value trust, integrity, and collaboration, and we mean it.
• Meaningful Work: Projects that strengthen communities, infrastructure, and public spaces.
• Growth with Purpose: Strategic expansion backed by strong leadership and investment.
• National Reach, Local Feel: Big‑firm resources with the agility and relationships of local offices.

Our Commitment:

PRIME AE Group is committed to creating an inclusive environment where differences are respected, voices are heard, and everyone has the opportunity to succeed.