Sign Bridge Assistant Inspector; BEIn-Training

The Opportunity

WSDOT is seeking a Sign Bridge Assistant Inspector to support the preservation, safety, and reliability of bridges and related structures across the state highway system. The position performs sign bridge inspections and assists with federally mandated bridge inspections in accordance with National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS), ensuring critical transportation infrastructure remains safe and serviceable.

Work may involve heights exceeding 100 feet, confined spaces, over water, uneven terrain, and variable weather. Technical rope access methods may be used to inspect bridges and structures.

• Complete in‑service structural condition inspections of all types of sign bridge structures and lead inspections of high‑mast luminaires.
• Operate equipment required for inspections, including Under‑Bridge Inspection Trucks (UBITs), boats, man lifts, handheld power equipment, hand tools, and fall protection gear.
• Operate computers and related software for defect diagnosis and reporting.
• Perform non‑destructive testing: ultrasonic, magnetic particle, and dye‑penetrant tests.
• Complete inspection reports in conformance with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and WSDOT requirements and procedures.
• Prepare and update the sign bridge repair list, prioritize regional repair needs, and maintain a monthly inspection schedule.
• Lead or assist in preliminary work prior to an inspection trip to ensure team readiness.
• Serve as assistant to statewide authority on Sign Bridge and High Mast Luminaire structures.
• Maintain and update the inventory of all sign bridges statewide.
• Provide sign bridge inspection training to engineers and technicians; maintain and troubleshoot inspection bucket truck.

Position is classified as Bridge Engineer 3 but may be filled at a lower level based on qualifications.

• Required (BE1) Competencies
  • Infrastructure Inspection Fundamentals: foundational knowledge of bridge, sign structure, or transportation infrastructure inspection principles and safety practices.
  • Inspection Procedures and Standards: ability to learn, interpret, and apply inspection procedures, technical standards, and reporting requirements.
• Required (BE3) Competencies
  • Bridge and Structural Inspection Leadership: experience conducting inspections in accordance with FHWA, NBIS, and WSDOT standards.
  • Structural Assessment and Technical Analysis: evaluate structural conditions and determine repair priorities and operational recommendations.
  • Program Coordination: coordinate inspection schedules, resources, equipment, traffic control needs, and inspection team activities.
  • Advanced Inspection Techniques: apply judgment in complex inspection environments including specialized access equipment, nondestructive testing methods, and emergency response situations.
  • Technical Leadership and Guidance: provide guidance, instruction, and support to inspection staff, maintenance crews, and agency partners.
  • Documentation and Records Management: maintain inspection records, inventories, repair tracking systems, and technical documentation supporting inspection programs.
  • Decision Making and Safety: exercise independent judgement to support public safety, worker safety, and infrastructure reliability.
• Additional Required Qualifications (any level)
  • Growth Mindset: commitment to learning and growth.
  • Service‑Oriented: act to meet the needs of others and foster a collaborative environment.
  • Equipment and Technology Operation: operate tools, equipment, vehicles, and technology used in inspections.
  • Communication: effectively communicate with team members, maintenance personnel, and supervisors in both field and office environments.
  • Valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A and ability to operate state‑owned vehicles.
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
  • Frequent in‑state travel with overnight stays.
  • Operate in confined‑space environments, near and above freeway traffic, at heights, and over waterways.
  • Operate a UBIT at heights greater than 100 feet.
  • Operate a work skiff for under‑bridge inspections from water.
  • Climb and descend steep and uneven slopes while carrying up to 50 pounds of equipment.
  • Complete…