Bridge Inspector

CSR Engineering; Pleasant View (TN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

CSR Engineering is seeking a Bridge Inspector to join our team in the United States. You will perform field inspections of railroad bridges, evaluating structural components for deterioration and load capacity, and document findings into professional reports.

You will coordinate with railroad clients and project managers, follow AREMA guidelines, and assist in developing maintenance plans. The role requires safety-focused fieldwork, occasional travel, and collaboration with engineering staff.

Qualifications

• Experience in bridge inspection or railroad structures is valued.
• Familiarity with railroad bridge components, materials, and defects.
• Ability to work safely in an active railroad environment with FRA rules.
• Strong observation skills and accurate documentation.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to project sites.
• Comfort working outdoors in varied weather, at heights or in confined spaces.

Responsibilities

• Perform field inspections of railroad bridges (open-deck, ballast-deck timber, steel and concrete).
• Evaluate structural components (stringers, floor beams, girders, trusses, bents, piers, abutments) for deterioration and load capacity.
• Document findings with notes, photos, and sketches; compile professional reports.
• Assess bridge condition ratings and flag items needing monitoring or repair.
• Apply AREMA guidelines and coordinate with railroad clients and project managers.
• Assist in developing bridge maintenance and repair plans with the engineering team.
• Follow railroad ROW safety rules including roadway worker protection procedures.
• Assist in training junior inspectors on inspection techniques and safety.

Skills

Field inspection

Structural inspection

Attention to detail

Safety awareness

Report writing

Education

B.S. Civil/Structural Engineering

AREMA training (preferred)

Tools

CAD

Field data tools

Job description

CSR Engineering is a leading engineering firm specializing in infrastructure development and maintenance projects. We are currentlyseeking a highly motivated and skilled Bridge Inspector to join our team. As a Bridge Inspector, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and integrity of bridges and structures, contributing to the overall success of our projects.

Responsibilities

• Perform field inspections of railroad bridges, including open-deck and ballast-deck timber, steel, and concrete structures.

• Evaluate structural components such as stringers, floor beams, girders, trusses, bents, piers, and abutments for deterioration, defects, and load capacity.

• Document findings through detailed field notes, photographs, and sketches, and compile them into clear, professional inspection reports.

• Assess bridge condition ratings and flag items requiring monitoring, maintenance, or immediate attention.

• Apply knowledge of railroad bridge standards including AREMA (American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association) guidelines.

• Coordinate with railroad clients and project managers to communicate findings and recommended actions.

• Assist in developing bridge maintenance and repair plans in collaboration with the engineering team.

• Follow all railroad right-of-way safety rules and protocols, including roadway worker protection procedures.

• Assist in training junior inspectors and provide guidance on inspection techniques and safety procedures.

Requirements

• Experience in bridge inspection, railroad structures, or structural engineering we value hands-on field experience and will consider a range of backgrounds.

• Familiarity with railroad bridge components, materials, and common defects.

• Ability to work safely in an active railroad environment, including compliance with roadway worker protection (FRA/railroad-specific rules).

• Strong observation skills and attention to detail for accurate condition assessment and documentation.

• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to various project sites as required.

• Comfortable working outdoors in varied weather conditions and at heights or in confined spaces as required.

Preferred (not required)

• AREMA or railroad industry training or coursework.

• Experience with railroad bridge inspection programs under 49 CFR Part 237.

• Familiarity with inspection reporting software or basic CAD/field data tools.

• Degree or coursework in Civil or Structural Engineering, or equivalent technical background.