Assistant Bridge Inspector/Commercial Diver

  • Ayres Associates
  • Waukesha, Wisconsin
  • Full Time


Finding the right fit:Lets start with the basics. What does bridge inspection work look like? Well, it depends on the day as our environment is constantly changing. Our day-to-day is different than most, and thats what we love about it. As an Assistant Bridge Inspector with Ayres, you could find yourself anywhere in Wisconsin (and other states) diving under bridges or alongside them, assessing their condition on ground level. Beyond bridges, youd also be inspecting overhead highway signs, mast arms, dams and other waterfront structures.

Become a part of a nationally recognized USA Today Top Workplace! Our commitment to working together and improving our lives rings true, and we are proud to grow our team with driven and valued individuals. Join us today and contribute to a culture of excellence and innovation.

And we wont sugar coat it. Youll be tested physically and mentally. Assessing what bridges need repairing, and when, is an essential component to keeping the traveling public safe and thats where the rewarding part of the work comes in. As part of our structural inspection group, you can take pride in the fact that youll be performing critical, essential work that few others are capable of. Heres a sneak peak of what else youd be part of: Where will I travel to? Where the work is, which is mostly throughout Wisconsin, and a few other states. We sometimes mobilize for up to two weeks at a time. Your travel expenses are covered and you can expect about 65% of your time to be spent in the field, with the remaining 35% in the office. How do I know if Ive got what it takes?If youre liking what youre hearing so far, you probably do! Here are some other qualities were looking for in our inspectors:

+ Problem-solvers. Youll be challenged to use sight, sounds, and touch to provide fundamental inspection. Be ready for anything.

+ Lovers of the great outdoors. Your work will inherently take you outside. We find that to be a plus, but its important to know from the get-go that youll be seeing different areas of the country in a variety of settings.

+ Not afraid to get dirty literally. This work is physical, requiring you to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds, and your clothes will need a good wash at the end of the day. Picture a construction zone or similar type environment the conditions youll be working in are a lot like that.

+ Detailed. Dont be afraid to challenge both sides of your brain. The accuracy and detail of our reports is just as important as discovering deficiencies. Submitting thorough reports is a crucial component of our quest toward ensuring public safety.

+ Career-minded. Want to start here but learn more skills as you go? We want that too! Well happily support your career journey and provide you with opportunities to grow through paid training, and professional development courses. Here is an example of timeline.

+ Eligible to become a Team Leader with 5 years of experience, with no college degree.

+ Eligible to become a Team Leader within 3 years of experience, with an AS degree.

+ Eligible to become a Team Leader within 2 years of experience, with an BS degree.

What will I be expected to do?Again, it depends on the day but here are some of the sure-fire expectations.

+ Function as part of a team and assist the Inspection Team Leader in performing field inspections report documentation.

+ Assist in completing initial, routine, in-depth, and fracture-critical inspections of fixed, movable, and signature bridges; dams; hydraulic structures; and other miscellaneous structures for Agencies (federal, state, local) and private owners using National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) and other relevant standards.

+ Comfort in work around water, traffic and at heights is required. While performing the duties of this job, youll need to be able to swim, climb, and negotiate work areas.

+ Participate in structural inspections including underwater and climbing inspections of bridges, dams and overhead signs and will complete inspection reports summarizing outcomes and condition assessments completed during inspections.

+ Coordinate inspection details directly with project managers, lead inspectors, and clerical staff during preliminary and final report preparation to ensure quality and conformance to standards.

What do I need to come to the table with?This is a grow with us kind of career. You will need to have the following skill sets, but were more than willing to help you further hone your skills.

+ A high school diploma or equivalent.

+ A commercial diving certification

+ Proficiency with MS Suite, specifically Word and Excel.

+ Physical ability to swim, climb, negotiate work areas, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

+ Flexibility to travel up to two weeks at a time.

+ Valid drivers license and good driving record required.

Desired skills and experiences:

+ Passion for diving, climbing, and construction experience a plus.

+ Understanding of inspection codes and standards, and the ability to conform to such within the first six months of employment.

Benefits of being part of the Ayres team:

+ Health, dental, and vision Insurance.

+ Short and long-term disability and life insurance.

+ Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) and 401K with company match.

+ PTO upon hire, paid holidays including two floating holidays, and a flexible work schedule.

+ Professional development opportunities.

Please note, benefits vary depending on job status. To learn more about our great benefits, visit our website at

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights ( notice from the Department of Labor.
Job ID: 479579124
Originally Posted on: 6/3/2025

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