1

Car Inspection Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Car Detailer

New Hill, NC

$11.50 - $14.25/hr

You will perform cosmetic inspections, final quality checks, and advanced reconditioning tasks such ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

Car Detailer

Durham, NC

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

You will perform cosmetic inspections, final quality checks, and advanced reconditioning tasks such ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

Car Detailer

Raleigh, NC

$14.50 - $18/hr

You will perform cosmetic inspections, final quality checks, and advanced reconditioning tasks such ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

Car Detailer

Cary, NC

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

You will perform cosmetic inspections, final quality checks, and advanced reconditioning tasks such ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Car Inspection information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$27

$55

How much do car inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for car inspection in Raleigh, NC is $27.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $37.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Car Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Car Inspector, you need a solid understanding of automotive systems, diagnostic procedures, and relevant safety regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma or vocational training in automotive technology. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, inspection checklists, and sometimes ASE certification is commonly required. Attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurately identifying issues and explaining findings to customers or colleagues. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure vehicle safety, regulatory compliance, and customer trust in automotive services.

What are some common challenges faced by car inspectors, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Car inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, staying updated with rapidly changing automotive technologies, and ensuring thoroughness under time constraints. To address these, inspectors should prioritize safety protocols, participate in regular training sessions to stay current with industry standards, and use checklists to maintain consistency and accuracy. Additionally, strong communication skills are essential when discussing findings with customers or team members, ensuring transparency and trust.

What is a car inspection?

A car inspection is a thorough checkup of a vehicle’s condition, typically performed by a certified mechanic or inspector. It involves examining various components such as brakes, tires, lights, emissions, and safety features to ensure the car meets legal and safety standards. Car inspections are often required by law when registering a vehicle, after an accident, or as a part of regular maintenance. The process helps identify any necessary repairs or maintenance, ensuring the vehicle is safe to drive.

What is the difference between Car Inspection vs Vehicle Inspector?

AspectCar InspectionVehicle Inspector
CredentialsState-certified inspectors, automotive knowledgeState or federal certification, vehicle safety knowledge
Work EnvironmentInspection stations, automotive shopsInspection sites, government facilities
Industry UsagePrivate and commercial vehicle inspectionsRegulatory vehicle safety assessments

Car Inspection typically refers to the process of checking individual vehicles for safety and compliance, often performed at private stations. Vehicle Inspector is a broader role involving official safety assessments mandated by government agencies. While both roles require automotive knowledge and certification, Vehicle Inspectors often have additional regulatory responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps clarify job expectations and career paths in vehicle safety and compliance.

What are popular job titles related to Car Inspection jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Car Inspection jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Car Inspection jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Car Inspection jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Car Inspection jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Car Inspection job openings:
Infographic showing various Car Inspection job openings in Raleigh, NC as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,665 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Car Detailer

$11.50 - $14.25/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


CarMax rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 366 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 713 rated retailers


Job description

7282 - Capital Blvd - 8007 Wild Wood Forest Dr., Raleigh, North Carolina, 27616CarMax, the way your career should be! 

Position Overview

As a Cosmetic Reconditioning Associate II at CarMax, you’ll play a vital role in delivering best-in-class vehicles to our customers. You will perform cosmetic inspections, final quality checks, and advanced reconditioning tasks such as paint touch-up, wet sanding, and buffing. Your work ensures every CarMax vehicle meets our high standards for quality and appearance, helping customers feel confident in their purchase.

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

  • Execute standardized cosmetic reconditioning processes at an established pace to maintain efficiency and quality.
  • Perform advanced cosmetic repairs including paint touch-up, wet sanding, and buffing to restore vehicles to CarMax standards.
  • Complete cosmetic and final quality inspections to ensure vehicles meet customer-ready standards.
  • Identify defects and determine the best repair methods for optimal results.
  • Support auction preparation and assist with vehicle movement on and off the lot.
  • Deliver exceptional customer service, collaborate with team members to achieve goals, support auction preparation, and assist with vehicle movement on and off the lot
  • Follow CarMax Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) requirements and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

Required Qualifications

  • Completion of all CarMax training programs, including online and hands-on modules.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and record data accurately for inventory and quality control.
  • Skilled in performing multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and performing manual tasks for extended periods.
  • Strong communication skills for interacting with customers and team members.
  • Willingness to work in indoor and outdoor conditions, including inclement weather.

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.

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


What CarMax employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom