Bridge Engineer (TE)

Bridge Engineer (TE)

Salary

$73,673.60 - $113,464.00 Annually

Location

Ames - 50010 - Story County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

27-00681

Agency

645 Iowa Department of Transportation

Opening Date

09/03/2026

Closing Date

10/4/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

David Evans, David.Evans@Iowadot.us

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Description

Come be part of a dynamic team here at the Iowa Department of Transportation! The Bridges and Structures Bureau seeks to hire a Bridge Engineer (Transportation Engineer) who will be an essential part of the Bridge Project Development team in our Final Design Unit. This position requires an individual capable of applying engineering principles in the design of highway structures and transportation improvement projects of a broad scope and complexity that is vital to make Iowa roadways safer while fulfilling our Mission - Making Lives Better Through Transportation. This position will foster growth and support for its reporting team through the five core values of the department: Safety First, People Matter, Customer Focused, Servant Leadership, and Integrity Without Exception.

As a Bridge Engineer, your daily responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Performs structural analysis and design as a licensed professional engineer of different types of moderately complex to complex highway structures utilizing steel, aluminum, reinforced concrete, prestressed concrete, and wood. Moderately complex to complex highway structures include standard and nonstandard bridges, culverts, retaining walls, sign truss, other miscellaneous structures, and routine to unique overlay and repair projects.
• Draws or directs technicians in drawing the ideas conceived in the design of the proposed structure.
• Reviews plans for moderately complex to complex highway structures that are submitted by outside sources for approval.
• Makes inspections, analyzes any deficiencies and writes reports containing recommendations and cost estimates on structures that must be repaired or reconstructed to maintain serviceability of the highway system.
• Manages moderately complex to complex projects assigned to ensure the design plan is complete and personnel working on the project are informed.
• Make suggestions to improve current bridge policy and procedures based on new design and construction specifications.

Preferred Characteristics:

• Ability to Analyze challenges, define successful solution alternatives, and proactively solves problems.
• Passion and commitment to excellence in our highway structures and bridges.
• Effectively communicates with all levels of management and a wide variety of individuals involved in our development process.
• A motivated, friendly, inclusive, and a get-it-done attitude.
• Embraces and encourages a culture that thrives on innovative ideas and leading changes that result in effective process and project improvements.
• Brings a professional and positive attitude to our team every day.

Location: Ames, Iowa

Shift Requirements: Days M-F, flex available. Occasional travel (overnight possible) may be required to national conferences, research workshops, and field exams for structural inspections or observation on construction sites.

Requirements:

• Must possess and maintain license as a Professional Engineer in the State of Iowa.

The Iowa Department of Transportation is proud to be a partner with the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Through this partnership, DOT engineers are granted membership at a largely discounted price, as well as discounts for conferences and continuing education through the ASCE. We are excited to offer this benefit and to have you join this partnership with us! If youre interested in learning more about this benefit, please visit https://www.asce.org/membership.

As a State of Iowa employee, you will be eligible for the following benefits:

• Competitive pay and benefits package including health, dental, flexible spending, and life insurance
• Insurance benefits start the first month following 30 days of employment, and costs can be reviewed here.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Paid time off effective immediately - biweekly vacation, separate sick leave, accruals rollover on a yearly basis, and 9 paid holidays per year.
• Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) Retirement Package with employer match
• Optional 401A plan with employer contributions.
• Employee Discount Programs from a variety of vendors (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling; legal, financial).

We encourage you to learn more about the State of Iowa Employee Benefits and costs at the State of Iowa Employee Benefits Website!

At this time, were not considering applicants who need any type of immigration sponsorship (additional work authorization or permanent work authorization) now or in the future to work in the United States. This includes, but IS NOT LIMITED TO: F1-OPT, F1-CPT, H-1B, TN, L-1, J-1, etc. For additional information on work authorization needs, please use the following links.

Nonimmigrant Workers and Green Card for Employment-Based Immigrants

You have the freedom to flourish in Iowa - Apply today!

Iowa DOT complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact the EEO & ADA Officer at 515-689-1009 or via email at amy.weerheim@iowadot.us.

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Licensure as a professional engineer by the Iowa Engineering & Land Surveying Examining Board.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely. Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question. Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree.
• No

02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03

Are you licensed as a professional engineer? (Note - Must have, or prior to appointment, must obtain an active Iowa professional engineering license through the Iowa Professional Licensing Bureau - Engineering and Land Surveying Examination Board)

• Yes
• No

04

Do you have a current Professional Engineer license in another state?

05

Do you have a current State of Iowa Professional Engineer license?

06

Do you have the potential to obtain a State of Iowa Professional Engineer license upon appointment?

Required Question

Employer State of Iowa

Agency 645 Iowa Department of Transportation Address 800 Lincoln Way

Ames, Iowa, 50010

Website https://iowadot.gov/careers/