Class Code:  08133

IOWA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES -

HUMAN RESOURCES ENTERPRISE


BRIDGE INSPECTOR 1

DEFINITION

Performs paraprofessional engineering work on a specialized team conducting detailed inspections of existing bridges; as a member of the office technical team, reviews/processes inspection data provided by the inspection teams; performs specialized maintenance activities on suspension bridges; performs related work as required.

The Work Examples and Competencies listed are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be the primary basis for position classification decisions.

WORK EXAMPLES

Assists a team leader in planning, scheduling, and conducting various types of bridge inspections in accordance with the bridge inspection standards applicable for the individual situation and/or condition, including hands-on inspection of fracture-critical members in non-redundant structures.

Inspects various bridge components using visual inspection techniques and various mechanical and electronic devices; such as, magnetic particle and dye penetrant testing equipment, hand grinding tools used to find/evaluate fatigue cracks in steel members, calipers, increment borer and electronic depth finder.

Records the condition of various bridge components including entering bridge inspection data into an electronic records management system.

Prepares sketches and takes photographs showing conditions and/or deficiencies.

Makes and records measurements of dimensions, angles, distances and/or vertical elevations using devices such as a transit, level, surveyor’s chain, or tape.

Calculates steel areas for painting contracts.

Observes various components on suspension bridges and advises appropriate staff of any problems found.

Assists in preparing written reports describing bridge conditions and deficiencies.

Researches historical bridge information for staff engineers; such as, design files, old plans, construction records and past inspection data contained in microfiche files.

Conducts quality assurance reviews and processes bridge inspection data provided by field inspection teams.

Performs duties related to snow and ice removal including, but not limited to, operating snow removal equipment and preparing/applying abrasives and de-icing chemicals.

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED

Knowledge of bridge inspection terminology, procedures and techniques.

Knowledge of various bridge elements and how they react with each other.

Knowledge of typical deterioration specific to certain bridge types and components.

Knowledge of bridge inspection reporting requirements to understand which components and physical surroundings to inspect, measure, observe, sketch and photograph.

Ability to understand the contents of bridge plans.

Ability to use word processing, spreadsheet and database applications on desk top and handheld computers.

Ability to utilize standards, instructions and guidelines applicable to bridge inspection and report preparation.

Ability to compare one bridge element with another through reading, observing and/or measuring so a judgment can be made regarding their condition and load carrying ability.

Ability to condense information yet retain significant findings.

Ability to make accurate mathematical calculations and maintain adequate documentation.

Ability to recognize, identify and assess the extent and significance of structural deterioration, defects and damage in and around bridges and reach conclusions as to cause(s).

Ability to describe bridge conditions and deficiencies as observed.

Ability to illustrate bridge components and structural deficiencies to scale.

Ability to climb and perform inspection duties, using inspection tools and equipment, while in difficult positions and under hazardous conditions such as extreme height, heavy traffic, over or in water, steep slopes, confined spaces, near electric lines, etc.

Ability to operate a truck mounted under-bridge access unit from either the basket or control platform.

Ability to operate an air quality monitor.

Ability to work out of doors in all weather conditions.

Ability to lift and load items weighing up to 65  pounds.

Skill in the operation of engineering survey equipment.

Ability to read, write and effectively communicate in English.

Displays high standards of ethical conduct.  Exhibits honesty and integrity.  Refrains from theft-related, dishonest or unethical behavior.

Works and communicates with internal and external clients and customers to meet their needs in a polite, courteous, and cooperative manner.  Committed to quality service.

Displays a high level of initiative, effort and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently.  Works with minimal supervision.  Demonstrates responsible behavior and attention to detail.

Responds appropriately to supervision.  Follows policy and cooperates with supervisors.

Aligns behavior with the needs, priorities and goals of the organization.

Encourages and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, and group identity.  Fosters commitment and team spirit.

Expresses information to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information.  Listens to others and responds appropriately.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Graduation from an accredited area college with an Associate’s Degree in Civil or Construction Engineering Technology plus one (1) year of engineering survey, bridge safety inspection, bridge/road construction inspection, bridge/road maintenance, bridge/road/building construction experience or combination thereof;

OR

an equivalent combination of experience and education substituting one (1) year of the required experience for each year (30 semester hours) of the required education;

OR

employees with current continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes experience equal to two (2) years of full time work in engineering survey, bridge safety inspection, bridge/road construction inspection, bridge/road maintenance, bridge/road/building construction or combination thereof.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Must successfully complete a Federal Highway Administrative approved comprehensive bridge inspection training course required by the National Bridge Inspection Standards prior to appointment or within a period of time designated by the appointing authority.

Must possess a valid Commercial Driver’s License Instruction Permit upon hire. 

Within 14 calendar days following appointment, a valid Class B Commercial Drivers License must be obtained with air brake endorsements in order to continue employment.

In conjunction with Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (parts 391 and 40), this job requires a pre-employment drug screen and will require ongoing participation in the employer’s random drug and alcohol testing program.

Extensive travel may be required for the positions in this class, and employees may be required to stay away from home overnight during assignments.  Employees must be able to arrange transportation to and from assigned reporting location.

Employees must be available to work up to 16 consecutive hours.

NOTES

After accepting an offer of employment, all persons are required to have a physical examination by the employee’s doctor of choice verifying the physical ability to perform the duties described.

Employees must respond to emergency situations as required.

Effective Date:          05/09        DK