Senior Lead Underwater Bridge Inspector – BE5 (In-training)

Description

About WSDOT

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world’s longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world’s widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a Bridge Engineer 5 to embark on an exhilarating journey with our highly skilled underwater bridge inspection team. As a Senior Lead Bridge Inspector, you will have the opportunity to explore and work in some of the most picturesque settings that Washington State has to offer. Join the Special Structures unit of the Bridge Preservation Office, where you will be responsible for federally mandated underwater bridge inspections, ensuring the safety and reliability of monumental and unique bridges on our state highway system. Your field supervision and decision-making capabilities will play a pivotal role in completing scheduled inspections and identifying crucial repairs and maintenance statewide. Prioritizing safety and effective communication will be key as you collaborate with WSDOT staff, state agencies, the public, and the media to ensure prompt and precise actions based on your engineering expertise. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to be a part of a small team responsible for extraordinary inspections – where adventure awaits underwater at every bridge!

What to Expect

Due to the nature of the work performed in this role, the successful candidate must have the ability to work underwater in low to zero visibility at depths up to 100’ in currents up to 3.5 knots, work at heights exceeding 100’, inside confined space environments, over waterways, outdoors with exposure to inclement weather and frequently traverse uneven terrain. This position may also perform inspections of bridges and structures using technical rope access (technical climbing techniques).

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Senior Lead Underwater Bridge Inspector will:

• Complete bridge inspections of bride elements continually submerged in water in conformance with Federal Highways Administration (FHWA) and WSDOT requirements and procedures.
• Use and/or operate inspection equipment.
• Perform non-destructive ultrasonic tests.
• Use of snorkeling, scuba, and/or surface-supplied air for underwater breathing during inspections.
• Perform Bathometric Surveys from a boat, land, or in a stream.
• Complete the inspection reports in conformance with FHWA and WSDOT requirements and procedures.
• Operate computers and computer accessories.
• Preliminary work before an inspection trip to ensure inspection team preparedness.
• Perform as an integral part of the Bridge Inspection and Maintenance Program, developing bridge inspection requirements and planning tools that require both significant expertise and experience with bridge inspection work.
• Perform stand-by/on-call Emergency Response up to three (3) weeks a year or as required.

Qualifications

This is a Bridge Engineer 5 (BE5) position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level (BE4, BE3, BE2, or BE1) depending on qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.

To be considered at the Bridge Engineer 1 level, the following are required:

• A bachelor’s degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program or having passed the Engineers-in-Training /Fundamentals of Engineering (EIT) Exam.
• An open-water Scuba Diving Certificate.
• A valid, unrestricted, driver’s license.

To be considered at the Bridge Engineer 2, the following are required:

• One (1) year of experience inspecting bridges at the assistant (co) inspector level.
• Successfully passed the Engineers-in-Training /Fundamentals of Engineering (EIT) Exam.
• An open-water Scuba Diving Certificate.
• A valid, unrestricted, driver’s license.

To be considered at the Bridge Engineer 3, the following are required:

• Two (2) years of experience inspecting bridges at the assistant (co) inspector level.
• Successfully passed the Engineers-in-Training /Fundamentals of Engineering (EIT) Exam.
• An open-water Scuba Diving Certificate.
• A valid, unrestricted, driver’s license.

To be considered at the Bridge Engineer 4, the following are required:

• Three (3) years of experience inspecting bridges at the assistant (co) inspector level.
• A Professional Engineer license in the State of Washington or the ability to transfer license from another state within six (6) months of employment.
• An open-water Scuba Diving Certificate.
• A valid, unrestricted, driver’s license.

To be considered at the Bridge Engineer 5 the following are required:

• Two (2) years of bridge condition inspection experience at the lead-inspector level.
• Three (3) years of experience inspecting bridges at the assistant (co) inspector level.
• A Professional Engineer license in the State of Washington or the ability to transfer license from another state within six (6) months of employment.
• A valid, unrestricted, driver’s license.
• An open-water Scuba Diving Certificate.

The following are also required at any level:

• Ability to obtain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
• Ability to obtain a Washington State Boater Education Card.
• Ability to pass dive physical examination as performed by a physician and in accordance with OSHA requirements.
• Ability to dive using a full-face mask or dive helmet.
• Ability to maintain diving fitness within the parameters of the Dive Safety Manual.
• Ability to obtain the diving certifications listed in “Desired Qualifications” and to dive utilizing surface-supplied air.
• Ability to climb and descend steep and uneven, brush-covered slopes while transporting up to 50 pounds of equipment.
• Ability to complete Underwater Bridge Inspection, Bridge Condition Inspection, and Tunnel Safety Inspection Training courses.
• Ability to travel (frequent in-state overnight travel is required).
• Ability to operate a UBIT at heights greater than 100 feet.
• Ability to operate a variety of boats in all conditions reasonable for boat size.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Prior experience inspecting bridges in Washington State at the Bridge Engineer 5 level or Bridge Engineer 3 level if experience is in Special Structures.
• Advanced Open Water Diving Certificate including dry suit, night, and limited visibility specialties.
• Rescue Diver and Emergency First Response Diving Certificates.
• UAS Remote Pilot license.
• Certified in maintenance and inspection of scuba tanks, Apeks regulators, and Divator MK-II face mask/regulator.
• Prior experience conducting surveys underwater and on land.
• Working knowledge of CADD.
• To review the full Position Description, please follow the directions in the Contact Us section of this posting.

Important Notes 

• This position has been approved for in-training. The hiring manager is looking to hire at the Bridge Engineer 5 level, however, the in-training plan will allow candidates to be considered as a Bridge Engineer 4, Bridge Engineer 3, Bridge Engineer 2, or, Bridge Engineer 1 if not qualified at the highest level. The salaries for each level are:
• Bridge Engineer 5: $95,652 – $128,676 Annually
• Bridge Engineer 4: $86,712 – $116,556 Annually
• Bridge Engineer 3: 74,724 – $100,524 Annually
• Bridge Engineer 2: $67,716 – $91,068 Annually
• Bridge Engineer 1: $61,404 – $82,512 Annually
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• This position requires frequent in-state travel with overnight stays.
• This position is eligible for remote work between scheduled inspections and occasional meetings in the office.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Why WSDOT 

• Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including occasional telework for eligible positions.
• Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application: 

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. NOTE: This information may be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the “APPLY” button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter via email.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, at Robyn.Lovely@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 24DOT-HQ-05436e in the subject line.

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That’s why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems’ web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165. 

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

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