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Automotive State Inspection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

State Inspection Technician

Laurel, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

What you'll do As a Certified Automotive State Inspector (Certified Automotive Emissions & Safety Inspector or Certified) you will help drive the continued success of VIOC by providing reliable and ...

We're looking for State Inspectors with a of professional automotive repair experience to join us at Carvana - the fastest-growing used automotive retailer in U.S. history and one of the four fastest ...

Virginia State Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

L OOKING FOR A SUPERSTAR AUTOMOTIVE STATE INSPECTOR. Sick of mounting tires and working weird hours and weekends. MERRIFIELD SHELL is looking for a VA STATE AND EMISSION INSPECTOR. The ideal ...

State Inspection Technician

Laurel, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

State Inspection Technician

Columbia, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

State Inspection Technician

Towson, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

State Inspection Technician

Towson, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

We're looking for State Inspectors with a of professional automotive repair experience to join us at Carvana - the fastest-growing used automotive retailer in U.S. history and one of the four fastest ...

State Inspection Technician

Laurel, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

State Inspection Technician

Rockville, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

We're looking for State Inspectors with a of professional automotive repair experience to join us at Carvana - the fastest-growing used automotive retailer in U.S. history and one of the four fastest ...

State Inspection Technician

Laurel, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

State Inspection Technician

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

State Inspection Technician

Rockville, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

State Inspection Technician

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

State Inspection Technician

Halethorpe, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

State Inspection Technician

Columbia, MD · On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer ... Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures. * Verify ...

We're looking for State Inspectors with a of professional automotive repair experience to join us at Carvana - the fastest-growing used automotive retailer in U.S. history and one of the four fastest ...

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Automotive State Inspection information

See salary details

$11

$28

$57

How much do automotive state inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for automotive state inspection in the United States is $28.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $38.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automotive state inspection?

An automotive state inspection is a mandatory evaluation of a vehicle to ensure it meets specific safety and emissions standards set by the state government. During the inspection, certified technicians check components such as brakes, lights, tires, exhaust systems, and more, depending on state requirements. Passing the inspection is often required to renew vehicle registration and legally operate the car on public roads. If the vehicle does not pass, repairs must be made before it can be retested and approved.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automotive State Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automotive State Inspector, you need thorough knowledge of vehicle systems, inspection protocols, and relevant state regulations, usually supported by a high school diploma and completion of a state-approved inspector certification program. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, emissions testing equipment, and digital record-keeping systems is typically required. Attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for ensuring compliance and interacting with vehicle owners. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining road safety, regulatory compliance, and public trust in the inspection process.

What is the difference between Automotive State Inspection vs Automotive Technician?

AspectAutomotive State InspectionAutomotive Technician
CertificationsState inspection license, possibly ASE certificationASE certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentInspection stations, vehicle inspection lanesRepair shops, service bays, garages
Job FocusInspecting vehicles for safety and emissions complianceDiagnosing, repairing, and maintaining vehicles

Automotive State Inspectors primarily focus on inspecting vehicles to ensure they meet safety and emissions standards, often working at dedicated inspection stations. Automotive Technicians diagnose and repair vehicle issues, working in repair shops or garages. While both roles require automotive knowledge and certifications, inspectors concentrate on compliance testing, whereas technicians perform repairs and maintenance.

What are some common challenges faced by Automotive State Inspectors and how can they be addressed?

Automotive State Inspectors often face challenges such as keeping up with changing inspection regulations, managing high volumes of vehicles during peak periods, and handling difficult customer interactions when a vehicle does not pass inspection. Staying current with state guidelines through regular training and certification renewal is essential. Effective time management and clear communication with vehicle owners about necessary repairs or compliance issues can help ensure a smooth inspection process and maintain customer satisfaction.
More about Automotive State Inspection jobs
What cities are hiring for Automotive State Inspection jobs? Cities with the most Automotive State Inspection job openings:
What states have the most Automotive State Inspection jobs? States with the most job openings for Automotive State Inspection jobs include:
Infographic showing various Automotive State Inspection job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,292 per year, or $28 per hour.
State Inspection Technician

State Inspection Technician

Carmax

Laurel, MD • On-site

$24.30 - $42.60/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


CarMax rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 369 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 724 rated retailers


Job description

7118 - Laurel - 8800 Freestate Dr, Laurel, Maryland, 20723

CarMax, the way your career should be! 

Position Overview

As a State Inspection Technician, you’ll play a critical role in ensuring every vehicle meets state safety standards and CarMax’s Standards. This position is ideal for automotive professionals who value precision, integrity, and customer satisfaction. At CarMax, you’ll work in a collaborative environment where innovation meets excellence, and your expertise helps deliver a best-in-class experience for every customer.

Why CarMax?

At CarMax, we are the nation’s largest retailer of used cars with stores from coast to coast, and we are still growing. We’re rethinking the way people buy cars – and our associates help us do just that. We believe work should feel meaningful and rewarding, with opportunities to make an impact every day. Whether you’re advancing your career or growing your skillset, we are here to drive you forward.

Role Responsibilities

  • Identify, prioritize, and remediate data quality issues across core enterprise data platforms.
  • Conduct state-mandated vehicle safety inspections using approved tools and procedures.
  • Verify vehicles meet CarMax Quality Standards before delivery.
  • Deliver exceptional customer service by explaining inspection results clearly.
  • Maintain and calibrate specialized inspection equipment for accuracy.
  • Collaborate with other departments to ensure timely completion of inspections and document inspection results accurately for compliance and transparency.
  • Follow CarMax Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) requirements and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

Required Qualifications

  • Ability to read, interpret, and record data accurately for compliance.
  • Automotive trade school degree (2 years) or minimum 2 years of hands-on automotive experience.
  • Valid state inspection certification as required by local regulations.
  • Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity for precise inspections.
  • Effective communication skills to interact with customers and team members.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in indoor/outdoor environments, including inclement weather.
  • Flexibility to work variable schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

About CarMax

At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by introducing transparency and integrity into the process. Our commitment to customer experience, innovation, and community has made us the nation’s largest used car retailer. With over 250 store locations and over 30,000 associates, we are proud to have been recognized as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® and are committed to helping our communities thrive.

As an associate, you are part of an innovative movement to empower the modern customer and drive progress. Your work fuels change—sparking ideas, overcoming challenges, and shaping what’s next. Join us in creating a better future– for our company, our customers, and the communities we call home.

CarMax is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The hourly rate for this position is:

$24.30 - $42.60

Benefits:

Except as otherwise required by state law, CarMax Associates are entitled to the following paid sick, vacation, and holiday time.

Associates that are considered full-time hourly or commission/incentive eligible:

  • To earn up to 48 hours of sick time per year accrued on a per pay period basis and between 80 hours and 200 hours per year of vacation time after a 90 day waiting period depending on years of continuous service with the Company. 
  • For 8 hours of pay for each of a total of 6 paid scheduled holidays per year plus 1 floating holiday.  If such an Associate does work on a scheduled holiday due to business need, they are eligible for Holiday Premium Pay. 

Associates considered full-time salaried are entitled to paid time away with no specified limit as needed for sick, vacation, bereavement, jury duty, holidays, floating holiday, etc. subject to manager approval. 

For more details about benefits, please visit our CarMax Benefits website.

Upon an applicant's request, CarMax will consider reasonable accommodation to complete the CarMax Job Application.


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About CarMax

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CarMax disrupted the auto industry by delivering the honest, transparent and high-integrity experience customers want and deserve. This innovative thinking around the way cars are bought and sold has helped us become the nation's largest retailer of used cars, with over 200 locations nationwide. Our amazing team of more than 25,000 associates work together to deliver iconic customer experiences. Along the way, we help every associate grow their career and achieve their best, at work and in their community. We are recognized for our commitment to training and diversity and are one of the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For®.

Industry

Automobile dealers and finance and insurance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Henrico, VA, US