Project Engineer, Structure Inspection

Rk K; Blacksburg (VA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work (home and office)

Tuition reimbursement

Health and dental insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

RK&K is seeking a Structure Inspection Project Engineer to support the growth of our Virginia-based structure inspection practice. You will lead NBIS inspections, plan field activities, and mentor junior staff while advancing the program’s capabilities and client offerings.

The role requires a Civil/Structural engineering background, 4+ years of inspection experience, and a PE/EIT pathway. Hybrid work and regional travel are expected to deliver projects across Virginia and nearby states.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field.
• PE license preferred; EIT with ability to obtain PE may be considered.
• 4+ years of bridge, tunnel, and/or structural inspection experience.
• FHWA/NHI Safety Inspection certification and refresher training.

Responsibilities

• Lead NBIS team or inspection projects.
• Plan, coordinate, and perform field inspections and report development.
• Prepare inspection reports, field notes, sketches, and documentation.
• Utilize drones/UAS, 3D modeling, nondestructive testing, and data collection platforms.
• Coordinate with engineering staff on findings and load rating support.
• Mentor junior staff and contribute to training and safety compliance.
• Support client communications, meetings, and project delivery.
• Assist with proposals and growth of the practice.

Skills

Bridge inspection leadership

Field inspection leadership

Technical reporting

Drones/UAS inspection

3D modeling

NBIS/SNBI knowledge

Project coordination

Mentoring staff

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

Tools

Drones/UAS platforms

3D modeling software

Digital data collection platforms

Job description

Structure Inspection Project Engineer

RK&K is seeking a Structure Inspection Project Engineer to support the growth and delivery of our structure inspection practice in Virginia. The ideal candidate will bring a strong technical foundation in bridge and transportation structure inspections, experience leading field activities, and the desire to grow into future project management and practice leadership responsibilities. This role provides an opportunity to lead inspection assignments, mentor junior staff, and support the development of a dedicated inspection practice.

Essential Functions

• Serve as NBIS Team Leader or lead inspector on assigned bridge, tunnel, culvert, and ancillary structure inspection projects.
• Plan, coordinate, and perform inspection activities, including field investigations, documentation, and report development.
• Prepare and review inspection reports, field notes, sketches, and supporting documentation in accordance with applicable standards and regulations.
• Utilize inspection technologies including drones/UAS, 3D modeling, nondestructive testing, and digital data collection platforms.
• Coordinate with engineering staff to communicate inspection findings, support load rating activities, and develop recommendations.
• Assist with project planning, resource coordination, budgeting, scheduling, and project tracking activities.
• Participate in QA/QC reviews of field activities and inspection deliverables.
• Mentor junior inspection staff and assist with technical training, field development, and safety compliance.
• Support client communication, project meetings, and day-to-day project delivery activities.
• Assist with proposal development, recruiting efforts, and growth of RK&K's structure inspection practice.

Travel

Up to 25% travel may be required, including occasional overnight travel to support inspection projects throughout Virginia and the surrounding region.

Required Skills and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related engineering field.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred; EIT with ability to obtain PE may be considered.
• Four (4) + years of bridge, tunnel, and/or structural inspection experience.
• FHWA/NHI Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges (NHI 130055) certification and applicable refresher training.
• Experience leading inspection assignments or serving as an NBIS Team Leader.
• Knowledge of NBIS, SNBI, AASHTO, FHWA, VDOT, and related inspection standards.
• Experience with bridge management systems, digital inspection platforms, and technical report preparation.
• Strong communication, organizational, and project coordination skills.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor staff and contribute to a collaborative team environment.
• Valid driver's license.

Other Duties

This job description indicates the general nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other essential functions (as covered under ADA). It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities and duties required by the employee. Other duties are assigned as required.

Physical Demands

This role requires the ability to perform field inspections on active construction sites. The employee must be able to stand and walk for extended periods, navigate uneven terrain, and climb ladders or stairs. Ability to lift and carry inspection equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis, with or without reasonable accommodation. Work is performed outdoors in varying weather conditions and may include exposure to construction-related hazards.

What We Offer

RK&K offers excellent potential for career advancement and professional growth. We also offer attractive compensation packages commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Paid time off
• Hybrid work (home and office)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances
• Paid parental leave
• Wellness programs and employee resource groups
• Career Development
• Matching 401(k) plan
• Paid Holidays
• Much, much more!

Why RK&K?

As a full-service engineering and construction management firm, RK&K gives you the opportunity to directly impact the communities in which we live and work. What sets RK&K apart is an award-winning culture that has fostered a spirit of collaboration and trust for over 100 years. To its clients, the firm delivers concepts, processes, and outcomes that are designed for success. RK&K has earned its reputation as a trusted partner, responsive employer, and community steward.