Senior Bridge Engineer

CDM Smith; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 91,478 - 160,118; Full time

Job summary

CDM Smith in Charleston, South Carolina, seeks a qualified individual to take technical ownership of complex bridge projects. This role leads the analysis and delivery of various concrete and steel bridges, ensuring compliance with state DOT standards.

The ideal candidate will have a Civil Engineering degree, a PE license, and significant experience in bridge design and collaboration with clients. A commitment to excellence and mentorship is essential throughout projects.

Qualifications

• 7 years of related experience in bridge design.
• Ability to travel domestically and/or internationally as needed.
• Registered PE in South Carolina preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead bridge design projects from concept to final PS&E.
• Perform structural analysis and oversee design calculations.
• Coordinate with other engineering disciplines for integrated designs.
• Mentor junior engineers in design and quality reviews.
• Support proposal development for project strategies.

Skills

CADD software expertise

Expertise in engineering design principles

Microsoft Office Suite

Engineering analysis/design software (e.g., Revit, STAAD, RISA)

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Architectural, or Structural Engineering

Professional engineering (PE) license

Tools

CSI Bridge Seismic Modeling/Analysis

Job description

Job Description

This role offers the opportunity to take technical ownership of complex bridge projects while mentoring engineers and partnering closely with transportation clients throughout the Southeast. You’ll serve as a technical leader on the analysis, design, and delivery of prestressed concrete, reinforced concrete, and structural steel bridges, guiding projects from preliminary engineering through final construction plans. The work spans state DOT and transportation agency clients—including South Carolina DOT (SCDOT)—and applies AASHTO LRFD and state-specific design criteria to deliver safe, resilient, and constructible solutions. Experience with SCDOT is valued, but the focus remains on strong technical judgment, hands‑on design expertise, and collaborative leadership.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead bridge design projects through all phases, from concept development to final PS&E.
• Perform and oversee structural analysis, design calculations, and plan production for transportation bridge projects.
• Prepare and review final bridge plans, specifications, and quantities for DOT and agency clients.
• Apply AASHTO and applicable state DOT standards, including navigating agency review processes.
• Develop efficient structural layouts that balance strength, durability, cost, and constructability.
• Coordinate with roadway, geotechnical, hydraulics, and construction engineers to deliver integrated designs.
• Collaborate directly with clients and reviewers to address comments, resolve technical issues, and maintain schedules.
• Provide hands‑on technical mentorship to junior engineers through design guidance and quality reviews.
• Support proposal development by shaping technical approaches, scopes, and project strategies.
• Participate in client meetings, industry events, and internal initiatives that support business and technical growth.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Architectural, or Structural Engineering or related discipline. Professional engineering (PE) license. 7 years of related experience. Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands. Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in Civil Engineering/Structural. Registered Professional Engineer (PE) in South Carolina. Working knowledge of CSI Bridge Seismic Modeling/Analysis.

Skills & Abilities

Strong knowledge of computer assisted design and drafting (CADD) 3D and 4D software and practices. Expert knowledge of engineering principles of design. Expert knowledge of Microsoft business software (Excel, Word, etc.). Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations. Ability to arrange/layout structural systems and elements for strength, stability, constructability, and construction economy. Strong knowledge of engineering analysis/design software (e.g., Revit, STAAD, RISA).

Amount Of Travel Required

10% or less

Pay Range

USD $91,478.00 – $160,118.00

Visa Sponsorship Available

No – We will not support sponsorship in the United States (i.e., H‑1B or TN Visas) for this position.

Massachusetts Applicants

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

EEO Statement

We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy‑related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.