Bridge Inspection Tech, Specialist, or Team Lead

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is recruiting for a Bridge Inspection Technician, Specialist, or Team Lead.

• A Bridge Inspection Technician is a member of a Bridge Inspection Team and acquires knowledge of in-service bridge inspection techniques, condition documentation, safety evaluation, and Federal reporting requirements. 
• A Bridge Inspection Specialist 1 and 2 are a member of a Bridge Inspection Team and acquires knowledge of in-service bridge inspection techniques, condition documentation, safety evaluation, and Federal reporting requirements.
• A Bridge Inspection Team Leader 1 is experienced in structure condition, safety inspection, and Federal reporting.  Inspects most types of in-service structures including bridges and culverts to protect critical infrastructure, maintain public safety and fulfill the Department’s legal responsibilities.

This position is part of a career ladder with career advancement opportunities. The successful candidate will be placed at the career ladder level correlating with their qualifications.

For a full job description, please contact Elisa Schock at eschock@mt.gov.

The successful candidate for this position is eligible for a $5000 sign-on bonus. For more information, please contact MDT People Operations Bureau.

Benefits of working for MDT and the State of Montana include:

• Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance
• Potential hybrid remote work arrangement available (if applicable to position)
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Access to Montana Health Centers, low-cost clinics for state employees and their families
• State Retirement plan and additional savings opportunities (deferred compensation)
• Employees in this position receive overtime compensation or compensatory time for all time in a pay status over 40 hours in a workweek
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
• Benefits apply on first day of employment
• Relocation assistance may be offered to the successful candidate at the time of offer (if applicable to position)

For information on the Montana Department of Transportation’s mission, vision, and values, please visit our website: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/about.aspx#values

Required Education and Experience:

Bridge Inspection Technician:

• Associate’s degree in construction technology, or a related field.
• Any combination of education and related work experience equivalent to the minimum qualifications that include emphasis in mathematics, physical science, or construction.

Bridge Inspection Specialist 1:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Technology, or a related field from an ABET accredited program. 
• Two (2) years of in-service bridge inspection experience under the guidance of a Bridge Inspection Team Leader.
• Two (2) years of bridge inspection related experience including any combination of bridge inspection, bridge design, bridge maintenance, and bridge construction.
• Any combination of education and related work experience equivalent to the minimum qualifications.

Bridge Inspection Specialist 2:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Technology, or a related field from an ABET accredited program, and a minimum of one (1) year of experience in inspection of in-service bridges under the guidance of a Bridge Inspection Team Leader, or Registration as a Professional Engineer in Montana.
• Four (4) years of in-service bridge inspection experience under the guidance of a Bridge Inspection Team Leader.
• Two (2) years of in-service bridge inspection experience under the guidance of a Bridge Inspection Team Leader and two (2) years of bridge inspection related experience including any combination of bridge inspection, bridge design, bridge maintenance, and bridge construction.
• Any combination of education and related work experience equivalent to the minimum qualifications.

Bridge Inspection Team Lead 1:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Technology, or a related field from an ABET accredited program, and a minimum of two (2) years of experience in inspection of in-service bridges under the guidance of a Bridge Inspection Team Leader and meets current Federal requirements to be a Bridge Inspection Team Leader.
• Alternative qualifications include registration as a Professional Engineer in Montana and one (1) year of in-service bridge inspection experience under the guidance of a Bridge Inspection Team Leader and meets the current Federal requirements to be a Bridge Inspection Team Leader.
• Five (5) years of experience in inspection of in-service bridges under the guidance of a Bridge Inspection Team Leader, and meets current Federal requirements to be a Bridge Inspection Team Leader; a minimum of three (3) years of experience in inspection of in-services bridges under the guidance of a Bridge Inspection Team Leader and two (2) years of related experience including any combination of bridge inspection, bridge design, bridge maintenance, and bridge construction, and meets current Federal requirements to be a Bridge Inspection Team Leader.
• Any combination of education and related work experience equivalent to the minimum qualifications.
• Certifications, licensure, or other credentials include Successful completion of a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) approved comprehensive bridge inspection training course.    

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of condition inspection of in-services bridges.
• Familiarity with the AASHTO Manual for Bridge Evaluation, National Bridge Inspection Standards, and Element Level inspection standards and procedures.
• Knowledge of Non-destructive testing techniques for structural materials.
• Skill in adapting to changes in plans and site conditions.
• Skill and ability in effective written and verbal communication.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

Required Application Materials:

• A resume detailing your qualifications and work history.
• A cover letter of no more than two pages addressing your qualifications for the position.

Your online application and all required materials must be submitted before midnight on the closing date. Ensure all materials submitted are selected as “Relevant.”

If you need an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR representative listed below.

Other Information:

Driver’s record will be verified. Successful applicants will be required to sign a release form which authorizes the Department to obtain the applicant’s permanent driving records. Compliance with Mont. Admin. R. 2.6.201, "State Vehicle Use," and MDT Policy #6.03.001, "State Vehicle Use Policy" are conditions of employment. 

This position is being posted in accordance with the bargaining unit agreement. Non-bargaining unit employees or employees of another bargaining unit may apply. If the position is not filled with a bargaining unit applicant, the non-bargaining unit applicants may be considered. However, bargaining unit applicants will have preference. 

The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may call the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division, at 406.444.6054.

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is committed to continuous improvement of our employee safety program and our safety and health processes, and to achieving an injury-free workplace.

Effective 5/26/2026, MDT is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e-verify.gov.