Design Engineer I - Transportation - MI

DESIGN ENGINEER I – BRIDGE DESIGN

TRANSPORTATION SERVICE LINE

EAST LANSING, MICHIGAN

POSITION SUMMARY

Spicer Group is seeking a Design Engineer I to support bridge design and structural engineering within our Transportation Service Line in East Lansing, Michigan. This position assists with the planning, analysis, and design of new bridges, bridge replacements, rehabilitations, and related transportation structures. Working under the guidance of experienced engineers and licensed professional engineers, the Design Engineer I will prepare engineering calculations, drawings, quantity estimates, and supporting project documentation from preliminary engineering through final design and construction-phase support. The role offers opportunities to develop technical proficiency in structural analysis, bridge detailing, and applicable transportation design standards while collaborating with multidisciplinary project teams. The ideal candidate brings a strong foundation in civil and structural engineering, attention to detail, and a commitment to learning and delivering practical, constructible solutions for Michigan transportation projects.

THE COMPANY

Spicer Group is a multi-disciplinary engineering, surveying, planning and professional services company with offices in Michigan, Ohio, and Georgia. We continue to expand our geographic footprint while providing our teams with strong technical and corporate support. Spicer Group is committed to maintaining tightly held private ownership, creating meaningful ownership opportunities for high performers who uphold our core values and build successful teams. Spicer Group was given the prestigious 2026 Circle of Excellence Platinum Award, recognized by PSMJ.

Spicer Group prides itself on our core values of commitment to growth, great client relationships, excellent services and solutions, maintaining a team environment, and integrity in all we do. We are seeking a leader who will model these values and embed them in regional decisions, relationships, and results.

Spicer Group, Inc. offers a comprehensive benefits package that reflects our respect and commitment for our employees, their contributions, professional goals, and personal goals. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Competitive Pay
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Options
• 401(k)-match program
• Paid Holidays
• Sick and Vacation Days
• Profit Sharing
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Professional Development
• Excellent Working Conditions
• The latest industry technology
• Work-Life Balance
• Fitness Reimbursement

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform assigned bridge design tasks using established engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria under the guidance of experienced engineers
• Assist with structural analysis and design calculations for bridge decks, beams, abutments, piers, and other structural components, with engineering review and direction
• Compile and review survey data, existing plans, field measurements, and other project information; identify discrepancies and communicate questions to the project engineer
• Support preliminary evaluations of bridge replacement and rehabilitation alternatives and coordinate assigned design details with roadway, geotechnical, hydraulic, and other project disciplines
• Assist in preparing bridge plans, structural details, specifications, and supporting documents in accordance with applicable design standards and project requirements
• Prepare quantity takeoffs, preliminary construction cost estimates, engineering models, and calculation packages; check assigned work for accuracy and incorporate review comments
• Use computer-aided drafting and engineering software to develop bridge drawings and support structural analysis while maintaining organized project files and meeting assigned deadlines
• Participate in site visits, field documentation, and construction-phase support as assigned, following project safety procedures and documenting observations for review by the project team

Physical presence is an essential function of this role. The omission of a specific duty or responsibility does not preclude assigning duties not listed herein if such duties and responsibilities are a reasonable assignment to the position.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline with coursework in structural engineering
• Foundational knowledge of engineering mechanics, structural analysis, and reinforced concrete and steel design principles
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and apply design criteria, codes, and standards with guidance from experienced engineers
• Ability to perform and document engineering calculations, evaluate results for reasonableness, and identify issues requiring supervisory review
• Basic familiarity with computer-aided drafting, spreadsheets, and engineering software, with the ability to learn bridge design tools and project documentation practices
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and willingness to learn, incorporate feedback, and complete assigned tasks within established schedules
• Effective written and verbal communication skills and the ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in an office setting and during occasional project site visits

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering examination and an interest in pursuing professional engineering licensure
• Internship, cooperative education, or academic project experience involving bridge design, structural engineering, or transportation infrastructure
• Exposure to Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) bridge design practices and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) bridge design specifications
• Experience with MicroStation, OpenRoads Designer, AutoCAD, or comparable drafting tools, and exposure to structural analysis or bridge design software
• Coursework or project experience in prestressed concrete, bridge engineering, foundation design, or structural modeling

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Learn more about Spicer Group and career opportunities at www.spicergroup.com

Spicer Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled