CIVIL INSPECTOR JOB DESCRIPTION

Daily reporting gaps, unresolved non-conformances, and contractor drift from approved specifications can quietly derail a transit or highway project before anyone at the project manager level notices. A Civil Inspector closes that gap on the ground. Stationed at active construction sites ranging from light rail station platforms to highway paving corridors, this role holds day-to-day accountability for quality assurance on behalf of the owner or agency. ACI concrete field certifications and FHWA drilled shaft standards govern much of the technical work. Few roles in construction move as directly between field conditions and project documentation.

Civil Inspectors in heavy civil and infrastructure construction are accountable for verifying contractor compliance with approved plans, specifications, and applicable agency standards across roadway, transit, and utility construction scopes, translating field observations into documented quality records that protect the owner's interests. Day-to-day work is conducted at active job sites under the direction of a Resident Engineer or Quality Manager, with coordination responsibilities extending to contractors, subconsultants, and regulatory representatives throughout the project lifecycle.

Career Impact: Holding ACI and FHWA drilled shaft certifications in heavy civil inspection places you in a credentialing tier that transit agencies and major infrastructure owners treat as a prerequisite for owner's-representative roles.

Business Impact: When a Civil Inspector accurately documents non-conformances and tracks corrective actions to closure, the project team avoids rework costs, schedule slippage, and contract disputes that can run into seven figures on large heavy civil programs.

Growth Opportunity: Experience as a Civil Inspector-I or Civil Inspector-II on transit and highway projects is the documented pathway to Resident Engineer and Construction Manager roles, where scope and compensation broaden significantly.

• Monitor active construction sites for compliance with contract documents, plans, and specifications on behalf of the owner or agency.
• Prepare and submit daily inspection and surveillance reports to the Resident Engineer by the end of each workday.
• Review contractor work plans and verify that construction methods align with project requirements and approved submittals.
• Calculate and document pay quantities and participate in submittal review for civil construction scopes.
• Reference applicable agency standards, including Caltrans specifications, Metro design criteria, and green book requirements, during field reviews.
• Report quality non-conformances and track corrective actions to closure in coordination with the quality management team.
• Attend pre-construction conferences, progress meetings, and safety meetings as the owner's field representative.
• Witness and verify required on-site testing, including soil compaction and concrete placement, in accordance with applicable standards.

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field, or equivalent work experience.
• 3 or more years of field inspection experience on transit, highway, or heavy civil construction projects, with demonstrated knowledge of construction techniques.
• ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade 1 certification, or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
• FHWA Drilled Shaft Inspector certification or demonstrated proficiency in drilled shaft inspection protocols.
• Ability to read and interpret civil design plans, contract documents, and agency specifications.
• Working knowledge of OSHA construction safety requirements, including OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
• Valid driver's license with a reliable driving record and willingness to travel to remote or regional project sites.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated ability to produce accurate daily field reports.

• WAQTC certification or ICC soils inspection credentials with 3 or more years of direct application on active construction projects.
• Familiarity with ADA regulations and their application to civil and station platform construction scopes.
• Engineer in Training (EIT) designation or equivalent demonstrated progression toward professional engineering licensure.
• Experience with erosion and sediment control, SWPPP compliance, or storm drain inspection on large heavy civil projects.

• Daily report completion rate, measuring whether field documentation is submitted accurately and on time each workday.
• Non-conformance closure rate, tracking the percentage of identified deficiencies resolved within the agreed corrective action window.
• Submittal review turnaround, measuring how quickly the inspector reviews and returns contractor submittals to maintain schedule.
• Pay quantity accuracy, reflecting the inspector's precision in calculating and documenting quantities used for contractor payment.
• Testing witness compliance rate, measuring the percentage of required on-site tests observed and documented per applicable standards.
• Typical tools: Construction management platforms (commonly Procore or Viewpoint); reporting and documentation suites (commonly Microsoft Excel and Word).

• Base Salary Range: $58,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on seniority and certifications
• Bonus: Project-completion or performance bonus common; typically 3 to 7% of base
• Equity: Rarely offered at individual contributor level in this sector
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contribution standard
• PTO: 10 to 15 days annually; increases with tenure
• Common Perks: Vehicle allowance or fleet vehicle, per diem for travel assignments, certification reimbursement

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Background checks, including verification of driving record and applicable criminal history, are a condition of employment for all positions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, and local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process upon request. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

The Civil Inspector delivers field inspections across substation, transmission line, and civil construction sites, using drawings, specifications, and diagrams to observe site activities, document test results, and communicate findings to clients and project teams. Reporting to project leadership, the Civil Inspector supports quality and safety outcomes by performing complex assignments and maintaining detailed records in compliance with established practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform civil inspections without materials testing.
• Work utilizing drawings, specifications, and diagrams.
• Use specific methods to observe site activities and perform tasks.
• Read and interpret plans and specifications.
• Perform complex assignments.
• Attend project meetings.
• Make detailed observations and give interpretation of results.
• Maintain detailed documentation and data from test results.
• Operate a calculator to calculate mathematical test results.
• Communicate effectively with client and project teams.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• ACI Concrete Field Testing Grade 1 and FHWA Drilled Shaft Inspector certifications required, or ability to obtain within 1 month.
• External or task-related certifications based on region and state preferred.
• 2 years of experience in substation, T-lines, or civil inspection required, with 5 years preferred.
• Ability to adhere to safety practices and policies in all work environments.
• Effective written, verbal, and listening communication skills with solid interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to lead and supervise others.
• Ability to lift 30 to 50 pounds frequently and over 50 pounds occasionally with assistance, kneel, squat, walk, and stand for extended periods on difficult terrain in adverse weather conditions.
• Available to work off-shift, overnight hours, and overtime as needed, including significant travel to remote locations.
• Valid Driver's License with reliable driving record required.

Embedded within the field quality team, the Civil Inspector leads on-site testing and inspection activities across a range of foundation types, including drilled shafts, micro piles, and helical piles, with a focus on accurate documentation and reporting to clients and supervisors. Working closely with technicians and interns, the Civil Inspector supports personal and team development while pursuing new certifications in QA/QC and materials testing.

Core Functions

• Travel to various job sites to perform field testing and inspections.
• Document field activity and report findings to clients and supervisors.
• Complete all daily reports by the end of each workday.
• Arrive on time with all proper equipment at requested dispatch times.
• Keep vehicle and work areas clean and well-maintained.
• Communicate with field personnel and colleagues.
• Mentor technicians and interns while continuing personal technical development.
• Strive to obtain new certifications in QA/QC and materials testing as directed.

Qualifications & Experience

• EIT or Geologist designation with drilled shaft, micro pile, or helical pile experience.
• PE or PG license preferred.
• FHWA drilled shaft certification required.
• 5 years of inspector experience with drilled shaft experience, or WAQTC certification with 3 years of experience, or ICC-soils certification with 5 years of experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Ability to handle large volumes of work and multi-task in a fast-paced environment.

Reporting to project leadership, the Civil Inspector shapes the full project lifecycle from site surveys and scope development through construction support, producing design drawings, specifications, and ROM cost estimates in accordance with national codes and FAA Standards. Partnering with CAD designers, subcontractors, and clients, the Civil Inspector ensures technical accuracy and continuity from design through closeout.

Primary Duties

• Conduct site surveys and develop site survey reports evaluating existing conditions and recommending design approaches.
• Develop project scope of work and coordinate with subcontractors and clients.
• Develop design drawings and specifications following relevant codes and standards.
• Develop Material Take-Offs, ROM cost estimates, and Engineer's Independent Government Cost Estimates.
• Compile design comments and provide technical guidance to CAD designers and other engineers.
• Provide engineering support during construction, including reviewing submittals, responding to RFIs, and issuing Field Instructions.
• Develop recommendations to solve unforeseen field problems and create purchase requisitions for procurement.
• Lead meetings, develop meeting minutes, and oversee subcontractors as Resident Engineer.
• Support project closeout and lessons learned documentation.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited program required.
• EIT or FE certification required, PE registration a plus.
• Must meet customer security requirements, including a federal background check.
• 3 to 10 years of civil engineering experience depending on level.
• Familiarity with national codes and FAA Standards and Orders preferred.
• Ability to read and understand drawings, codes, standards, and specifications.
• Working knowledge of CAD and related PC software.
• Willingness to travel throughout the United States for surveys, inspections, and meetings.

Sitting at the intersection of construction quality assurance and transit infrastructure, the Civil Inspector leads on-site oversight of light rail construction covering roadway paving, curb, gutter, sidewalks, ADA station platform components, storm drain, and sewer, ensuring all work aligns with approved plans, Metro design criteria, and Caltrans specifications. Operating across contractor teams, client staff, and the quality team, the Civil Inspector prepares daily reports, resolves field issues, and confirms contractor compliance on behalf of the owner.

Duties

• Provide quality assurance and surveillance oversight for light rail construction, including roadway paving, curb, gutter, sidewalks, civil and ADA station platform components, storm drain, sewer, and related civil work.
• Oversee materials testing and placement and prepare daily reports detailing tests conducted, results, and deviations from approved plans.
• Review contract documentation and specifications and coordinate with the quality team to resolve field issues.
• Review contractor work plans and confirm compliance with project plans, specifications, and requirements.
• Reference green book standards, city requirements, Metro design criteria, and Caltrans specifications during field reviews.

Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with large heavy civil construction projects including light rail stations, roadways, sidewalks, grading, storm drains, and parking facilities.
• Understanding of ADA regulations and requirements.
• Familiarity with Caltrans requirements and Metro or agency standard specifications preferred.
• Familiarity with quality assurance as an owner's representative.
• Ability to review and understand civil design plans and specifications.
• Ability to perform duties in a construction field office, solve field issues, and oversee work at elevated heights.
• Can work respectfully in a team environment on behalf of the client.

A key member of the code inspection team, the Civil Inspector builds a consistent record of compliance by performing inspections and evaluations of residential and commercial buildings against applicable codes, regulations, and approved plans, while also advising the public and preparing written reports. Collaborating across inspection management, clients, and the general public, the Civil Inspector independently resolves unique field problems and supports business development and permit-related initiatives.

Functions

• Perform inspections and evaluations of residential and commercial buildings for compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and approved plans.
• Assist and advise the general public on residential construction and code requirements.
• Prepare written reports, maintain records, and issue notices to correct code violations.
• Read, research, and interpret code requirements and communicate findings orally and in writing to the public.
• Independently recognize, evaluate, and resolve unique field problems using sound judgment.
• Maintain effective customer service relationships with clients and the public.
• Assist the inspection management team with business development and permit-related support.

Requirements

• Associate degree in engineering, architecture, or building inspection preferred, or High School Diploma with 2 or more years of journey-level experience in inspection services, construction trades, or contracting.
• ICC or other state-recognized certifications required, with multi-discipline certifications preferred.
• Ability to read construction drawings and blueprints and evaluate against current municipal codes.
• Proficiency in MS Office, Adobe Acrobat, and Adobe Photoshop.
• Knowledge and use of digital cameras and photo media programs required.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to maintain effective public relationships.
• Valid state driver's license required.

Delivering compliant, on-schedule construction outcomes depends on the Civil Inspector, who provides quality assurance through inspection of materials and construction work, manages contracts, monitors code compliance, and coordinates subconsultant activities across mechanical, wastewater, and pipeline projects. Based within a multidisciplinary project team, the Civil Inspector works directly with contractors, client staff, and outside agencies to ensure safety, quality, and timely project completion.

Accountabilities

• Provide quality assurance through inspection of materials and construction work for compliance with approved plans, specifications, and ordinances on behalf of clients and owners.
• Review plans, observe construction work, and attend pre-construction conferences, progress meetings, and safety meetings.
• Coordinate information written and orally with contractors, client staff, and outside agencies.
• Perform quantity estimates and review submittals and other construction documents.
• Perform daily inspections, daily reports, and punch list inspections, and participate in project schedule and invoice reviews.
• Manage contracts, maintain quality assurance requirements, and monitor code compliance issues.
• Apply knowledge of cost trends, change management, and claims to ensure timely and quality project completion.
• Ensure project safety guidelines are met and report noncompliant activities to the H&S Representative or Resident Engineer.
• Coordinate subconsultant activities for asbestos abatement air monitoring and project monitoring.

Experience & Qualifications

• Associate degree in Construction Management or Engineering Technology required.
• ACI, ICC, CWI, and NASE 2 and 3 certifications required, with OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Construction Safety Training required.
• Confined Space Entry Training and 4-hour scaffold safety training required.
• 10 years of mechanical and civil construction inspection experience, including piping construction inspection.
• Experience with mechanical wastewater facilities and pipeline construction projects.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite with basic knowledge of Primavera and MS Project.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in various weather conditions and lift to 40 pounds.

As the Civil Inspector, this role guards technical integrity and operational availability by planning and executing civil inspections of underground drainage piping, earthwork, concrete, structural steel, fireproofing, and grating, while coordinating third-party specialty contractors and enforcing safety and integrity standards without compromise. The site's Lead Civil Engineer relies on this work to maintain accurate condition histories, support corrective action planning, and keep the asset register and MTO register current across the civil discipline.

Job Functions

• Plan and execute civil inspections covering underground drainage piping, earthwork, concrete, structural steel, fireproofing, and grating.
• Maintain technical data in the Inspection Management System.
• Generate and manage Corrective Action Inspection Requests for civil assets not meeting functional requirements.
• Oversee and coordinate third-party inspections, including review of inspection reports.
• Support the Management of Change process including Pre-Start-up Safety Reviews.

Background & Experience

• Registered Civil Engineer with 4 years of experience in industrial plant design and maintenance, or Civil Inspector with 10 years of equivalent experience under a registered Civil Engineer.
• Knowledge of ACI, AISC, ASCE, ASTM, OSHA, NFPA, API 620, 650, and 653, AREMA, and ASME B30 codes and standards.
• Firm understanding of client Design Engineering Practice specifications, Loss Prevention Principles, and work processes.
• Ability to design and generate computer-aided and hand sketches for repair of civil assets.
• Strong relationship-building skills with internal and external partners and contractors.
• Ability to balance and prioritize competing activities and take decisive action to resolve issues.

Civil Inspector II monitors active construction sites within PMCM-managed highway and transit projects, verifying contractor compliance with contract documents, witnessing on-site testing, and providing daily progress reports to the Resident Engineer. Success in the position means bringing strong math skills, current certifications including ACI and SHA Yellow Card, and at least 3 years of full-time transit and highway construction experience to support safe and compliant project delivery.

What You'll Do

• Monitor active construction sites and provide the Resident Engineer with daily progress reports.
• Supervise contractor work crews to verify compliance with contract documents and safe construction practices.
• Read and interpret contract documents.
• Calculate and determine pay quantities.
• Witness, understand, and verify all required on-site testing in accordance with applicable standards.
• Provide technical assistance as required by the Resident Engineer.
• Assist in constructability review.

Professional Experience

• High School Diploma required, Bachelor's Degree preferred.
• ACI, OSHA 10 and 30, Erosion and Sediment Control MDE RPC, SHA Yellow Card, and Temporary Traffic Control Manager certifications required.
• T Level 3 or higher certification in Construction Materials Testing, Geotechnical, Erosion and Sediment Control, Water and Sewer Lines, or related areas required.
• 3 years of full-time experience in transit and highway construction, including 2 years at Civil Inspector-I level or equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of construction techniques and good construction practices.
• Strong math skills including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong written and verbal English communication skills.
• Willingness to travel as required.
• Valid driver's license with vehicle maintained in good working order.

The Civil Inspector produces accurate civil quality control inspection records across roads, grading, wind turbine concrete foundations, and drainage installations, serving as the Owner Project Manager's representative to ensure EPC contractor compliance throughout construction. Reporting to the Owner Project Manager and Construction Site Manager, the Civil Inspector tracks non-conformances, attends site meetings, and communicates schedule risks and quality items to the project management team and landowners.

Scope of Work

• Complete and document civil quality control inspections of roads, grading, wind turbine concrete foundations, and drainage installations.
• Oversee road installation and improvements, including witnessing proof rolls and nuclear density testing.
• Ensure EPC contractor installs BMPs in compliance with the SWPPP and environmental permit requirements.
• Recommend acceptance of completed civil works and track punch list items to resolution.
• Monitor EPC contractor progress and report potential delays or schedule risks to the Owner.
• Verify all non-conformances and quality items are tracked to closure and documentation is maintained onsite.
• Attend all pertinent site meetings and communicate effectively with the project management team and landowners.

Minimum Qualifications

• Demonstrated understanding of civil and structural installation, engineered drawings, and quality control inspections.
• Working knowledge of OSHA requirements.
• Ability to create and maintain quality control documents in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to make informed decisions quickly in a fast-paced environment.
• Attentive to detail and efficient.

Embedded within the construction project team, the Civil Inspector develops and oversees the full environmental compliance program, including SWPPP, SPCC, permitting, wildlife, waste management, and sustainability, ensuring all construction activities meet mitigation requirements and permit conditions. Working closely with site management, clients, regulatory agencies, and subcontractors, the Civil Inspector manages incident reporting, delivers environmental training, and leads stormwater pollution prevention and hazardous waste disposal programs to protect regulatory standing throughout the project lifecycle.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Plan, manage, and oversee the environmental compliance program including SWPPP, SPCC, permitting, wildlife, waste management, and sustainability.
• Guide the project management team on site-specific environmental regulations and stewardship.
• Review engineering drawings to identify required BMPs and ensure safe, compliant construction.
• Manage environmental incident reporting, investigations, and follow-up communication with the project team, clients, and regulatory agencies.
• Develop, deploy, and monitor environmental compliance records, reporting, and submittals.
• Develop and deliver environmental training for employees, subcontractors, and site visitors.
• Track and verify environmental site compliance through daily, weekly, and monthly inspections and audits.
• Collaborate with site management to ensure all construction activities meet mitigation requirements and permit conditions.
• Manage stormwater pollution prevention, erosion and sediment control, and all required reporting.
• Manage spill clean-up, remediation, and the SPCC plan, and oversee the Construction Waste Management Program including recycling and hazardous waste disposal.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• 4 years of environmental studies or equivalent training and experience required.
• Certificate of completion as Qualified Inspector of SWPPPs required, with EGLE certificate preferred.
• 2 years of experience as an environmental compliance professional on construction projects, preferably with utility-scale solar.
• Working knowledge of federal, state, and local environmental regulations, including SWPPP, SPCC, RCRA, SARA, CERCLA, and CWA.
• Strong knowledge of hazardous storage, chemical handling, and spill remediation.
• Advanced knowledge of safety regulations at federal, state, local, and company levels.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, Outlook, Project, and Visio.
• Experience with Procore or other construction management software preferred.
• Strong accounting, math, and record-keeping skills.
• Demonstrated experience training contractors and ability to manage competing demands under pressure.