Structural Bridge Project Engineer

About the role

The Structural Project Engineer will work on complex projects in Benesch's East Lansing, MI office, collaborating with a team to design, load rate, and inspect bridge structures. The ideal candidate holds a Professional License in Michigan and has at least 4 years of bridge design, load rating, and/or inspection experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis and design for MDOT bridge projects, including new construction, rehabilitation, and replacement, in compliance with MDOT Bridge Design Guide (BDG) and AASHTO LRFD specifications.
• Prepare detailed structural calculations, design drawings, and technical specifications.
• Conduct load rating analyses using MDOT-approved methods and software.
• Review and interpret survey data, geotechnical reports, and roadway alignments to support structural design.
• Coverage with roadway, hydraulics, geotechnical, and environmental teams to develop integrated project solutions.
• Provide technical support during project development, from concept through final design and construction.
• Participate in quality control (QC) reviews of structural calculations, drawings, and reports.
• Assist in preparing project cost estimates and construction schedules.
• Review shop drawings, contractor submittals, and RFIs for compliance with project requirements.
• Perform site visits for bridge inspections, construction observation, and field verification.
• Prepare technical reports, design narratives, and calculation packages for submittals to MDOT and other clients.
• Communicate project status, technical issues, and design decisions to the project manager, clients, and other stakeholders.
• Maintain professional licensure in Michigan and complete required continuing education.
• Prepare and review structural and geometrical calculations for bridge design projects.
• Manage the process of compiling and coordinating plans, specifications, cost estimates and pay items in accordance with MDOT standards.
• Prepare and review bridge load rating reports to MDOT design standards.
• Plan, prepare, and perform bridge and tunnel inspections to MDOT design standards.
• Coordinate the above tasks with the Project Manager
• Lead structural designers and inspectors on bridge design, load rating, and inspection projects.
• Assume responsibility for assigned design calculation files and plans, assuring adequate independent QC reviews on that work.

Requirements

• B.S. Degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline required.
• PE License in Michigan or ability to obtain.
• Experience working with MDOT and/or municipalities.
• Strong communication and client relation skills.
• Progressive experience with developing design drawings and utilizing MicroStation and/or AutoCAD.
• Strong organization and leadership skills with a track record for adhering to design budgets and schedules.
• Ability to perform complex analysis and design.
• Ability to assemble a complete design package for assigned elements or projects.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of bridge design, load rating, and/or inspection experience.
• Successful completion of one or more of the following FHWA-NHI courses preferred but not required:
• Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges
• Fracture Critical Inspection Techniques for Steel Bridges
• Bridge Inspection Refresher Training

Skills

• Proficiency in MicroStation and/or AutoCAD.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills.
• Ability to perform complex analysis and design.
• Ability to assemble a complete design package for assigned elements or projects.

Benefits

At Benesch, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Up to 9% retirement contribution for benefit-eligible employees
• Flexibility that supports your schedule
• Generous paid time off and parental leave
• Support beyond work through mentorship, hands-on experience, and opportunities to make an impact

Pay

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Full-time position with flexible scheduling options.

Equal Opportunity & Accessibility

Benesch is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and accommodating qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require an accommodation due to a disability, please contact TalentAcquisition@benesch.com.