Senior Bridge Design Manager- Southeast

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Bridge Design Manager - Southeast

Company: Weston & Sampson Engineers Inc

Location: Fort Myers, FL, US; Conway, SC, US; Apex, NC, US; Columbia, SC, US; North Charleston, SC, US

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Infrastructure / Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-17T20:55:00

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead complex transportation infrastructure projects, focusing on bridge design and comprehensive project delivery from conceptualization through construction completion.

• Manage and mentor a team of talented engineers and designers, fostering technical excellence and professional development within the bridge engineering discipline.

• Serve as the primary client liaison, ensuring project success through effective communication, quality assurance, and performance management for key DOT and local government transportation initiatives.

• Drive business growth by contributing technical leadership to proposal development and client relationship management across the Southeast region.

• Uphold rigorous design standards, ensuring compliance with AASHTO, DOT, and local regulatory requirements in all bridge engineering deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is clearly focused on leadership and technical oversight within structural and transportation engineering, specifically bridge design. The emphasis on client liaison, team management, and business development indicates a senior position with significant responsibility for project execution and regional growth. The requirement for PE licensure in South Carolina, while flexible, highlights the importance of regional expertise.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and lead all phases of bridge design projects, from initial concept development and preliminary engineering through final design, construction documentation, and support during construction.

• Oversee and direct technical design teams, ensuring the accurate application of AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications, AASHTO Manual for Bridge Evaluation, and specific state DOT standards (e.g., SCDOT).

• Act as the primary point of contact for clients (DOTs, local governments), managing project scope, schedule, budget, and client expectations to ensure successful project delivery and foster long-term relationships.

• Conduct thorough reviews of structural calculations, design plans, technical specifications, and cost estimates for bridge projects, ensuring technical accuracy, constructability, and compliance with all applicable codes and standards.

• Mentor, guide, and develop junior engineers and project managers, fostering their technical skills, project management capabilities, and understanding of bridge design best practices.

• Support business development efforts by contributing technical expertise to proposals, participating in client meetings, and identifying opportunities for new projects and service expansion in the Southeast region.

• Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including roadway, environmental, and utility coordination specialists, to ensure integrated and comprehensive project solutions.

• Lead efforts in bridge inspection, condition assessment, and load rating for existing structures, providing recommendations for rehabilitation or replacement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are structured to reflect a senior management role that balances technical expertise with client-facing responsibilities and team leadership. The inclusion of specific standards like AASHTO LRFD and mention of SCDOT indicates a need for practical, hands-on knowledge of regional transportation agency requirements.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering. Experience:

• 10-15 years of progressive structural and bridge engineering design experience.

• Proven track record of leading large-scale transportation projects for state Departments of Transportation (DOTs) or county/municipal agencies.

• Experience managing budgets, project schedules, and multidisciplinary engineering teams.

• Demonstrated ability to lead design efforts and oversee the preparation of comprehensive project deliverables, including plans, specifications, and cost estimates. Required Skills:

• Registered Professional Engineer (PE) in South Carolina, or the ability to obtain PE licensure in South Carolina within a specified timeframe.

• In-depth knowledge and practical application experience with AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications and the AASHTO Manual for Bridge Evaluation.

• Expertise in the design and analysis of various bridge types, including steel, concrete, and prestressed concrete structures.

• Proficiency in structural design and analysis software such as AASHTOWare (BrR/D), Midas Civil, STAAD, LEAP Concrete and Steel.

• Strong understanding of Microstation, OpenBridge, AutoCAD, and Civil 3D for design and drafting.

• Excellent client liaison and communication skills, with a proven ability to manage client relationships and project stakeholders.

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities, including mentorship and professional development of engineering staff. Preferred Skills:

• NBIS (National Bridge Inspection Standards) certification.

• Familiarity with specific South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) design criteria, submittal processes, and right-of-way/utility coordination practices.

• Experience in bridge inspection, condition assessment, and load rating.

• Experience in proposal development and business growth initiatives within the transportation engineering sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The PE requirement for South Carolina is a key differentiator, suggesting a strong focus on the regional market. The extensive list of required software indicates a need for hands-on technical proficiency in addition to management skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase at least 2-3 significant bridge design projects managed from conception to completion, demonstrating leadership and technical oversight.

• Include examples of complex structural calculations, design plans, and technical specifications for steel, concrete, and prestressed concrete bridges.

• Provide evidence of successful client management and stakeholder engagement, highlighting communication strategies and issue resolution.

• Demonstrate experience in managing project budgets and schedules, with metrics showing adherence to financial and timeline targets.

• Highlight contributions to proposal development, including technical sections and win strategies for transportation projects. Process Documentation:

• Documented workflows for bridge design project phases, including preliminary engineering, detailed design, quality control/assurance, and construction support.

• Examples of process optimization initiatives implemented to improve design efficiency, accuracy, or cost-effectiveness.

• Case studies detailing the application of AASHTO LRFD and state-specific DOT standards in project execution.

• Evidence of team management processes, including mentorship programs, performance reviews, and skill development plans for engineering staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to demonstrate not just their technical capabilities but also their ability to manage processes, lead teams, and deliver projects successfully, supported by tangible examples in their portfolio. The emphasis on specific design standards and software integration is crucial for portfolio content.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the "Senior" title, 10-15 years of experience, PE licensure, and the specified locations (Fort Myers, FL; Conway, SC; Apex, NC; Columbia, SC; North Charleston, SC), the estimated annual salary range for a Senior Bridge Design Manager is between $120,000 and $170,000 USD. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in engineering and construction management within these Southeastern states, considering the cost of living and demand for specialized infrastructure expertise. Benefits:

• Employee Ownership: As a 100% employee-owned firm, employees are stakeholders in the company's success, sharing in profits and decision-making.

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) plan with company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.

• Professional Development: Support for continuing education, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.

• Mentorship Programs: Structured guidance from experienced professionals to foster career growth.

• Flexible Workplace: Options and support to balance work and personal life.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Company-provided life insurance and long-term/short-term disability coverage. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, the role may require flexibility to meet project deadlines, client needs, and attend evening or weekend meetings as necessary. The company emphasizes a supportive approach to work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry data for senior engineering management roles in the Southeast US, factoring in experience and specialized skills. The benefits highlight the company's employee-ownership model and commitment to professional growth and work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Design, and Environmental Services, with a strong focus on Transportation Infrastructure and Water Resources.

Company Size: Over 1,000 employee-owners, indicating a large, established firm with diverse capabilities and a significant regional or national presence. This size supports complex, large-scale projects and offers robust internal resources.

Founded: 1899, signifying a long history of stability, expertise, and sustained growth in the engineering and environmental consulting sector. This longevity suggests a stable organizational structure and deep-rooted industry knowledge.

Team Structure:

• The Bridge Design team likely operates within a larger Transportation or Infrastructure division. It comprises specialized engineers (structural, civil, transportation) and designers.

• Reporting Structure: This Senior Manager will likely report to a Director of Transportation or a Vice President overseeing the Southeast region's engineering practices. They will manage a team of Project Engineers, Design Engineers, and potentially Project Managers.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: This role requires extensive collaboration with other departments, including roadway design, environmental services, surveying, utilities, and construction services, to deliver integrated infrastructure solutions. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision-Making: Emphasizing the use of analytical tools and data to inform design choices, project planning, and performance evaluations.

• Workflow Optimization: Continuously seeking to improve design processes, project execution efficiency, and client satisfaction through best practices and technological adoption.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: Fostering an environment where team members work together to tackle complex engineering challenges, share knowledge, and innovate solutions.

Company Website: https://www.westonandsampson.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history, employee-ownership model, and substantial size suggest a stable, collaborative, and employee-centric culture focused on delivering high-impact infrastructure projects. The emphasis on IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, & Access) indicates a commitment to a supportive and equitable work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership role within the bridge design and transportation engineering practice. It represents a significant step beyond project engineer or lead designer, encompassing management of teams, client relationships, business development, and strategic project delivery. It's a pivotal position for individuals aiming for executive leadership in an engineering firm.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Bridge Design Manager will likely report to a senior executive (e.g., VP of Operations, Director of Transportation) and will manage a team of engineers and potentially junior project managers. This structure provides significant autonomy while ensuring alignment with broader company goals and regional strategies.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and substantial impact on the company's revenue and profitability through successful project delivery, client retention, and business development within the Southeast transportation sector. Effective management of bridge projects contributes directly to the company's reputation for quality and reliability in critical infrastructure development.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership Progression: Potential advancement to Director-level positions, regional leadership roles, or executive management within the transportation or infrastructure divisions.

• Technical Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in niche bridge design areas, advanced materials, or complex structural analysis through specialized projects and training.

• Business Development Leadership: Transitioning into roles with a greater focus on strategic client acquisition, market expansion, and overall business growth.

• Mentorship and Training: Developing leadership skills by mentoring and training future generations of engineers, contributing to the firm's knowledge base and talent pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a critical leadership track within the firm, offering clear pathways for career advancement into broader management and business development responsibilities, supported by the company's employee-ownership structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "On-site," indicating a primary work location within one of the company's specified offices (Fort Myers, FL; Conway, SC; Apex, NC; Columbia, SC; North Charleston, SC). The company culture promotes a collaborative and flexible workplace, suggesting that while office-based, there may be some flexibility in daily schedules or hybrid arrangements depending on team needs and project demands.

Office Location(s):

• Fort Myers, FL

• Conway, SC

• Apex, NC

• Columbia, SC

• North Charleston, SC

These locations are situated in key areas within the Southeast, offering proximity to major transportation projects and client hubs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office space is designed to foster teamwork, with opportunities for engineers and designers to interact, share ideas, and collaborate on projects.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to a comprehensive suite of engineering software (AASHTOWare, Midas Civil, STAAD, LEAP, Microstation, OpenBridge, AutoCAD, Civil 3D) and advanced computing resources necessary for complex bridge design and analysis.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for direct interaction with project teams, management, and potentially clients, facilitating effective communication and problem-solving. Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. However, given the project-driven nature of the role and client demands, flexibility may be required. This could involve occasional extended hours, weekend work, or travel to project sites or client meetings as needed to ensure project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" designation, coupled with descriptions of a collaborative environment, suggests a traditional office setting where in-person interaction is valued for team cohesion and project execution, though the company also emphasizes flexibility.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of submitted resumes and portfolios by HR and hiring managers to assess qualifications against the core requirements.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on bridge design principles, experience with specific software and standards (AASHTO LRFD, state DOTs), and technical problem-solving capabilities. Candidates may be asked to walk through a past project in detail.

• Management & Leadership Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team management experience, client relationship skills, business development aptitude, and cultural fit with Weston & Sampson's employee-owner model.

• Portfolio Presentation: A formal presentation of selected projects from the candidate's portfolio, detailing their role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes, with a focus on impact and lessons learned.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership or executive team members to discuss strategic alignment and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 most impactful bridge design projects that clearly demonstrate your leadership, technical expertise, and project management success.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, provide specific metrics on budget managed, schedule adherence, design innovations, and client satisfaction.

• Detail Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, responsibilities, and decision-making authority.

• Showcase Technical Depth: Include relevant excerpts of design calculations, plan sheets, and specifications that highlight your understanding of complex structural challenges and solutions.

• Address Client & Team Dynamics: Prepare to discuss how you managed client expectations, resolved conflicts, and fostered collaboration within your project teams.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for hypothetical scenario questions related to managing difficult clients, resolving design conflicts, handling scope creep, or motivating underperforming team members.

• Practice presenting a complex bridge design project concisely and effectively, focusing on the story, your role, and the impact.

• Research Weston & Sampson's recent projects, company values (especially IDEA and employee ownership), and their strategic goals in the Southeast transportation market.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly vet candidates for both technical prowess and leadership capabilities, with a strong emphasis on portfolio demonstration and understanding of the company's unique employee-ownership culture.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AASHTOWare: Essential for bridge rating (BrR) and design (BrD), indicating a need for deep familiarity with this DOT-standard software suite.

• Midas Civil: Advanced structural analysis and design software, often used for complex bridge structures.

• STAAD: Widely used structural analysis and design software for various types of structures.

• LEAP Concrete and Steel: Software specifically for concrete and steel design of bridge components.

• Microstation: CAD software critical for producing engineering drawings and plans, especially in transportation projects.

• OpenBridge: A comprehensive modeling environment for bridge design, integrating various Bentley products.

• AutoCAD / Civil 3D: Standard CAD and civil design software for general drafting and site design integration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, proficiency in using project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6) for schedule and budget tracking is implied.

• Tools for generating performance reports and client-facing dashboards for project status updates. CRM & Automation:

• Experience with CRM systems for client management and business development tracking may be beneficial.

• Familiarity with document management systems (e.g., ProjectWise) for project file organization and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of specialized bridge design software highlights the technical depth required for this role. Proficiency across this stack is crucial for efficient and compliant project execution.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Employee Ownership: A core value that fosters a sense of responsibility, accountability, and shared success among all employees. Operations professionals are expected to act with an "owner's mindset."

• Collaboration & Inclusion (IDEA): Commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where all voices are heard and respected, driving innovation through varied perspectives.

• Integrity & Excellence: Upholding the highest ethical standards and delivering technically superior, high-quality engineering solutions that serve the public interest.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging curiosity, seeking out new technologies and methodologies, and consistently striving to enhance processes and project outcomes.

• Community Impact: A dedication to improving communities through meaningful infrastructure projects that enhance quality of life and sustainability.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Open communication and proactive collaboration are essential, particularly between bridge design, roadway, environmental, and other engineering disciplines to ensure cohesive project development.

• Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive feedback among team members and leadership to drive continuous improvement in technical execution and project management.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that supports the sharing of expertise, best practices, and lessons learned across teams and projects, especially within the context of employee ownership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's culture is strongly defined by its employee-ownership model and commitment to IDEA, shaping how operations professionals are expected to interact, make decisions, and contribute to the company's success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of multiple clients (DOTs, local governments), internal teams, and regulatory bodies on large-scale infrastructure projects.

• Technical Complexity: Tackling intricate design challenges for bridges, requiring deep technical expertise and innovative problem-solving.

• Regional Market Dynamics: Navigating the specific requirements, standards, and competitive landscape of the Southeast transportation sector, particularly within South Carolina.

• Team Development: Effectively mentoring and developing a team of engineers with varying levels of experience, ensuring consistent quality and performance across projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training on new bridge design technologies, materials, and analysis techniques.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to enhance management, client relations, and business development skills through internal and external programs.

• Industry Engagement: Participation in conferences (e.g., TRB, industry-specific bridge engineering forums) and professional organizations to stay abreast of industry trends and network.

• Mentorship: Direct mentorship from senior leadership within Weston & Sampson, providing guidance on career progression and strategic decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a senior role in a dynamic infrastructure sector, while the growth opportunities are amplified by the company's commitment to employee development and its employee-ownership structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage a challenging client relationship on a major transportation project. How did you address their concerns and ensure project success?" (Assesses client management, communication, and problem-solving skills.)

• "Walk me through a complex bridge design project you led. What were the key technical challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the ultimate outcome?" (Focuses on technical depth, project leadership, and ability to articulate complex information.)

• "How would you approach developing new bridge design business opportunities within the South Carolina DOT or other regional agencies?" (Evaluates business development acumen and understanding of the regional market.)

• "Given our employee-ownership model, how would you foster an 'owner's mindset' within your bridge design team?" (Tests understanding of company culture and ability to lead with an ownership perspective.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Weston & Sampson, particularly our employee-ownership model and commitment to IDEA?" (Assesses candidate's research and alignment with company values.)

• "How do you approach fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing within a multidisciplinary engineering team?" (Explores collaboration style and team-building approach.)

• "How do you ensure quality and compliance with standards like AASHTO LRFD and state DOT requirements in your project deliverables?" (Probes commitment to technical excellence and regulatory adherence.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, your specific role, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, technical innovations, client satisfaction).

• Visual Aids: Use high-quality visuals such as renderings, key plan sheets, and progress photos to illustrate project scope and complexity.

• Narrative Flow: Structure your presentation logically, telling a compelling story about each project that highlights your leadership and problem-solving capabilities.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about technical aspects, design decisions, and management challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating technical expertise, strong leadership and client management skills, a clear understanding of the company's unique culture, and the ability to articulate impactful project experiences.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Bridge Design Manager position:

• Submit your resume and cover letter through the provided ADP application link.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your most significant bridge design projects that showcase your leadership, technical expertise, and project management success. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights experience with AASHTO LRFD, relevant bridge design software (AASHTOWare, Midas Civil, STAAD, LEAP, Microstation, AutoCAD, Civil 3D), and experience with state DOTs, particularly SCDOT if applicable. Emphasize leadership roles and client management.

• Prepare for Portfolio Presentation: Practice walking through your selected projects, focusing on your role, technical challenges, solutions, and project outcomes. Be ready to discuss budget and schedule management.

• Research Weston & Sampson: Understand the company's history, employee-ownership model, commitment to IDEA, and its recent projects in the Southeast transportation sector. Prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewers.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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