Railroad Bridge Engineer Entry Level

 Entry Level Railroad Bridge Engineer & Inspector (Engineer I)

Location: Remote / Kansas City Office – Overland Park, KS

Job Type: Full-Time

Department: Bridge Management & Engineering (Flex)

Job Summary:

ARE is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented entry-level railroad bridge engineer and inspector to join our bridge management and design flex team.  This role assists in the inspection and evaluation of railroad bridges and related structures to ensure safety, compliance, and operational integrity.  Under the direction of knowledgeable bridge inspectors and engineers, you will get hands-on experience performing bridge inspections, evaluating bridge conditions, and assisting in practical designs of bridge repairs and replacements. The ideal candidate will have a foundational understanding of engineering principles and a strong interest in coupling fieldwork with office work.

Job Description:

• Assist in performing routine and detailed inspection of railroad bridges, culverts, and related structures in accordance with client Bridge Management Programs, FRA, and AREMA standards.
• Expected to learn and adhere to safely requirements in accordance with AREMA and ARE’s best management practices.
• Required to be included in random drug and alcohol testing program in accordance with FRA regulations.
• Expected nationwide travel up to 50% of the time to various bridge sites, often in remote locations, working in various outdoor conditions, and sometimes harsh weather.
• Typical inspection trips are 5-7 days, up to 10 consecutive days, including mobilization and demobilization.
• By nature, railroad bridges will require that you be able to work at heights.
• Field inspection efforts utilizing different forms of access, such as:
  • All forms of walkable ground line access including:
    • steep, unstable slopes
    • groundlines with heavy vegetation and debris
    • railroad open decks
    • ballast decks
  • Ladders
  • Various bucket lift systems
  • Waders
  • Boats
  • Drones
  • Fall restraint climbing
  • Fall arrest climbing when participating with a certified inspection team
  • Rope access climbing when participating with a certified inspection team
• Document field observations, measurements, and conditions using existing inspection reports, photos, inspection software, CADD and GIS tools as applicable.
• Support structural evaluations and load ratings under the supervision of licensed professional engineers.
• Prepare inspection reports, sketches, and photographic documentation.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to develop maintenance and repair recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and environmental regulations during field operations.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, structural engineering, or a related field from an ABET-accredited school.
• Internship or coursework related to bridge design, inspection, or transportation engineering is preferred.
• Familiarity with AutoCAD, MicroStation, RISA, MathCAD, Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to travel and work in the field under varying weather and site conditions.
  • Expectations include travel by driving and by flight as required for mobilization and demobilization purposes.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Valid driver’s license, ability to rent vehicles, and ability to fly required.

Preferred Skills:

• EIT (Engineer-in-Training) certification or working toward licensure.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
• Aptitude for the use of technology.
• Experience operating drones a plus.

Benefits:

• Career and professional development opportunities.
• Competitive compensation package, medical, dental, and vision benefits, life and long-term disability insurance and a 401k, with company match.
• Cell phone