01/01/1992 10790

BRIDGE AND STRUCTURAL DESIGNER

DEFINITION: This is professional work in designing bridge and structural projects.

An employee in this class prepares or reviews complete sets of plans for bridge and structural projects, such as single span concrete or steel structures where hydraulic, soils, and foundation design considerations conform to established standards, or prepares or reviews phases of the most complex projects, such as multi-span concrete or steel structures where hydraulic, soils, and foundation design considerations vary from standard consideration and structural analysis of loading limits complicate design. In addition, an employee develops needed engineering calculations to design simple structures such as culverts, simple span steel and concrete bridges and substructure units. Work is performed with Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) instruments or conventional techniques and methods and involves following complex design procedures in performing assignments. Work may include lead work over lower-level technicians engaged in drafting, detailing, and design of less complex portions of plans and is differentiated from the next lower level by the full time emphasis on design and preparation of complete sets of plans for complex bridge and structural projects. Assignments are performed independently within the guidelines provided by technical standards and specifications. More detailed instructions and close supervision may be provided on more complex assignments. Work is assigned by a technical supervisor who assists with unusual problems and reviews work upon completion for accuracy, adherence to established technical standards, and results obtained.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Using CADD instruments, develops design plans for complete bridge and structural projects, such as single span concrete or steel structures where hydraulic, soils and foundation design consideration conform to established standards.

Performs elementary stress analysis for simple structures, determines placement of structural steel and culverts, computes steel and concrete quantities on proposed bridges.

Performs elementary stress analysis and design work for rehabilitation of existing bridges and structures.

Performs stress analysis while serving as team leader in the in the inspection of bridge structural members, foundation supports, and components, and determines type and extent of bridge rehabilitation work.

Prepares hydraulic and hydrologic reports with guidance from higher level technical and professional employees.

Uses design and construction criteria outline in design manuals, national design specifications, and construction specifications in developing design for simple structures.

Reviews bridge and structural design plans, such as single span concrete or steel structures where hydraulic, soils, and foundation design consideration conform to established standards or portions of bridge and structural plans prepares by consultants or in-house personnel, such as multi-span concrete or steel structures where hydraulic, soils, and foundation design considerations vary from standard consideration and structural analysis of loading limits complicate design, for technical standards and adherence to applicable specifications.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of CADD methods, instruments, materials, and techniques in bridge and structural design.

Knowledge of the principles and practices applied in the locations and design of bridge and structural projects.

Knowledge of bridge and structural construction methods and materials and the preparation of cost estimates and specifications in the field of specialization.

Knowledge of the algebra, plane geometry, trigonometry, and the basics of structural engineering.

Knowledge of departmental drafting standards.

Knowledge of the symbols used in structural drafting.

Ability to perform trigonometric and algebraic computations required to complete bridge and structural design projects.

Ability to develop final plans from engineering instructions and calculations.

Ability to do bridge and structural design work.

Ability to read and interpret maps, plans, blueprints, survey notes, and other records.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year as a Bridge and Structural Draftsman-Designer.

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One year of professional experience in bridge and structural design work, including six months involved CADD operation; and a Bachelor's Degree in civil engineering, or a closely related field.

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Three years of professional experience in bridge and structural design work, including six months involving CADD operation; an Associate's Degree in civil engineering, drafting, or design technology.

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Any equivalent combination of experience and/or training.