Project Engineer, Structure Inspection

Rk K; Fair Lakes (VA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Tuition reimbursement

Health, dental, vision, life, and disa

Paid parental leave

401(k) matching

Job summary

RK&K is seeking a Structure Inspection Project Engineer to drive bridge and transportation structure inspections in Virginia. The role demands NBIS leadership, field coordination, and strong reporting skills, with opportunities to grow into project management and practice leadership.

You will lead inspection assignments, mentor staff, and contribute to developing RK&K's structure inspection practice across Virginia and nearby regions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering or related field.
• PE license preferred; EIT with PE potential considered.
• 4+ years bridge/tunnel/structural inspection experience.
• Knowledge of NBIS, SNBI, AASHTO, FHWA and VDOT standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead NBIS inspections as Team Leader or lead inspector.
• Plan, coordinate, perform inspections, document findings, and report development.
• Prepare inspection reports, field notes, sketches, and supporting docs.
• Mentor junior inspection staff and assist with training.
• Support client communication and project delivery.

Skills

Leadership experience

Communication skills

Field inspection planning

Team mentoring

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering

Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred

EIT with PE potential considered

Tools

Bridge management systems

Digital inspection platforms

Nondestructive testing tools

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.