Within the Washington State Department of Transportation, Bridge and Structures Office or Washington State Ferries performs semi-skilled bridge technical tasks such as: coordinate technical data acquisition and maintain supplemental information data files; transfer as-built construction notes to record drawings with manual drafting techniques; perform simple geometric calculations for developing bridge data, develop vertical and horizontal dimensions, etc., related to reports and bridge designs; retrieve and store bridge file records; prepare simple technical drawings. Operate a computer utilizing basic computer concepts and software applications. Tasks are performed under the guidance and close supervision of a Bridge Engineer.

These positions are found in a variety of settings and functional areas within the Bridge and Structures Office and Washington State Ferries. The characteristics for each functional area are cited below.

In the Bridge Design Section and Washington State Ferries: These positions differ from a Bridge Technician 1 position in that the Bridge Technician 2 prepares technical sketches using Computer Aided Drafting (CAD). These positions differ from a Bridge Engineer 1 in that Bridge Technician 2’s do not independently complete structural design plans.

In the Bridge Preservation Office: The Technician is trained in bridge inspection, National Bridge Inventory (NBI), Bridge Management Systems (BMS), Washington State Bridge Inventory System (WSBIS), laptop data recording techniques, non-destructive testing (NDT), Under Bridge Inspection Truck (UBIT) operation, and Rogliss use. Perform work such as: traffic control, writing bridge inspection reports for simple bridge inspections, and coordinating inspection trips. Serves as a bucket operator in 3-man UBIT inspections under close supervision. Retrieves bridge records to assemble basic load rating packages, and information from databases. Compiles and maintains information files, reduces field data and notes, or serves as co-inspector. These positions differ from the Bridge Engineer 1 in that the Bridge Engineer 1 is responsible for the UBIT operation, maintenance, and repair.

Prepares simple technical bridge plan details using Computer Aided Drafting;
Performs simple geometric calculations;
Serves as a bucket operator with a 3-member Under Bridge Inspection Truck crew;
Assists lead inspectors with coordination of bridge inspections;
Write routine inspection reports for simple bridges;
Acquires, coordinates and maintains technical data and databases.
Reduces field data and notes pertaining to bridge inspection and evaluation;
Performs other work as required.

Knowledge of: higher-level mathematics such as Algebra, Trigonometry, and Geometry; drafting fundamentals; bridge engineering terminology; fundamental mechanical repair of equipment.

Ability to: operate computers; acquire, coordinate and maintain technical data; communicate effectively in verbal and written English language.

There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.

An Associate degree in Civil Engineering Technology, surveying, or drafting


Completion of an accredited vocational/technical program in Civil Engineering Technology, surveying, drafting, structural detailing, engineering design


Graduation from high school or GED equivalent and two years as a Bridge Technician 1, Maintenance Technician 1- Bridge, or Transportation Technician 1


Two years experience in computer aided drafting (CAD).
Equivalent education/experience.

Note: Possession of a valid driver's license may be required. Some positions may also require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), without air brakes restriction.

New class: 11-9-01
New class code: (formerly 66385) effective July 1, 2007
Abolished job class adopted June 22, 2023, effective July 1, 2023.