Staff Engineer – Load Rating, Inspection, Structural Evaluation

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Full Time Professional Louisiana, Metairie, LA, US

2 days ago Requisition

Salary Range: $72,500.00 To $90,000.00 Annually

We are looking for a highly motivated and versatile individual to join our engineering staff in either our Austin, TX or New Orleans/Metairie, LA office. This position will focus on bridge load rating and structural analysis for our state DOT and local bridge owner clients. The role will also support bridge inspections performed in accordance with FHWA’s National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS), as well as in-depth bridge evaluation and preservation projects.

Tasks will include development and QC/QA of load rating models, code‑based calculations, refined analysis, interpretation of field and client‑provided data, field inspection, and report writing. Tasks may also include supporting BDI’s diagnostic testing, structural monitoring, and nondestructive evaluation field and engineering services.

The position offers a balanced mix of office‑based analysis and hands‑on field work, so you will see the structures you analyze firsthand, apply what you learn in the field to your ratings and evaluations, and build a well‑rounded skill set that few early‑career engineers get. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a growth‑oriented professional consulting group where you will work with and be mentored by senior technical staff and licensed Professional Engineers across the full life cycle of bridge evaluation.

• Develop AASHTOWare Bridge Rating models and load ratings in accordance with the AASHTO Manual for Bridge Evaluation (MBE), owner load rating manuals, and client specifications
• Compute member capacities and rating factors using LRFR, LFR, and ASR methods, including legal, permit, and emergency vehicle loads
• Incorporate section loss, deterioration, and damage documented during inspection into load ratings
• Develop finite element models for refined analysis, model calibration, and load rating of complex or non‑standard structures
• Perform QC/QA of load rating models, calculations, and load rating reports developed by other engineering staff
• Support the evaluation of load posting needs and critical findings under the direction of a licensed Professional Engineer
• Prepare load rating reports, summary sheets, and submittal documentation to the quality of submitting to a client

• Assist in routine, in‑depth, Nonredundant Steel Tension Member (NSTM), damage, and special inspections in accordance with NBIS and the Specifications for the National Bridge Inventory (SNBI)
• Document component ratings, element condition states, and findings; prepare inspection reports and update owner web‑based reporting systems
• Perform field work from ground level, ladders, hydraulic access equipment (e.g., UBIT), or using rope access techniques

• Support in‑depth structural evaluations of deteriorated or damaged bridges, including investigation of the causes of distress
• Assist in developing repair, rehabilitation, and preservation recommendations, with supporting calculations, details, and cost estimates
• Prepare technical memoranda and reports summarizing findings and recommendations for bridge owners

• Coordinate with project managers, senior engineers, and clients on schedules, logistics, and deliverables
• Update internal documentation upon project completion and share lessons learned with the team
• Work in a variety of conditions including working at heights, overnight shifts, and in all types of weather
• Perform other duties as…