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Chief Construction Inspector Jobs in Detroit, MI

SME

Survey Crew Chief

Plymouth, MI · On-site

Serve as SME's on-site representative with owners, contractors, and inspectors * Make real-time ... Construction staking and layout * Boundary, ALTA/NSPS, topographic, and as-built- surveys * Operate ...

Atwell, LLC

Survey Crew Chief

Southfield, MI

Lead boundary, topographic, construction layout, and as-built surveys for land development projects ... Strong communication skills with contractors, inspectors, and team leaders. * A proactive approach ...

Camp Dearborn

Chief Plans Examiner

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$84K - $119K/yr

CHIEF PLANS EXAMINER STARTING SALARY : Minimum: $84,936 per year Maximum: $119,165 per year ... inspection, or a related construction/design field, including at least two (2) years in a ...

Atwell, LLC

Survey Crew Chief

Southfield, MI · On-site

Who We Are Atwell, LLC is a bold leader in the consulting, engineering, and construction services ... Strong communication skills with contractors, inspectors, and team leaders. * A proactive approach ...

Atwell, LLC

Survey Crew Chief

Southfield, MI · On-site

Who We Are Atwell, LLC is a bold leader in the consulting, engineering, and construction services ... Strong communication skills with contractors, inspectors, and team leaders. * A proactive approach ...

ASM Global

Director of Capital Projects

Detroit, MI · On-site

... construction managers, inspectors, owner's representatives and consultants. * Financial Management: Develop and manage large-scale capital budgets while monitoring expenditures, contingency usage ...

NEWMARK

Chief Engineer

Bloomfield, MI · On-site

Peer Inspections - Coordinate peer inspection data for site(s) responsible for to ensure readiness ... Supervise/coordinate tenant fit-up work and building construction projects. * Maintenance:

NEWMARK

Chief Engineer

Bloomfield Hills, MI · On-site

Peer Inspections - Coordinate peer inspection data for site(s) responsible for to ensure readiness ... Supervise/coordinate tenant fit-up work and building construction projects. * Maintenance:

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsChief Construction Inspector JobsChief Construction Inspector Jobs in Detroit, MI

Chief Construction Inspector information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$38.6K

$82.7K

$124.7K

How much do chief construction inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief construction inspector in Detroit, MI is $82,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,800.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chief construction inspector?

A Chief Construction Inspector is a senior professional responsible for overseeing and coordinating the inspection of construction projects to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, codes, and safety regulations. They supervise inspection teams, resolve complex construction issues, and act as a liaison between contractors, engineers, and government agencies. Their role is crucial for maintaining quality control and ensuring that all construction work meets required standards. Chief Construction Inspectors also prepare reports, review project progress, and address any deficiencies found during inspections.

How does a chief construction inspector typically collaborate with project managers and contractors on large-scale construction projects?

A Chief Construction Inspector works closely with project managers and contractors to ensure that construction activities comply with all design specifications, codes, and safety regulations. They often serve as the main point of contact for quality assurance, conducting site inspections, reviewing reports, and addressing issues as they arise. Collaboration involves attending coordination meetings, providing technical guidance, and facilitating clear communication between stakeholders to resolve conflicts efficiently. This cooperative approach helps keep projects on schedule while maintaining high standards of workmanship and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief construction inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Construction Inspector, you need comprehensive knowledge of construction practices, building codes, and safety regulations, often backed by relevant certifications or a degree in construction management or engineering. Familiarity with inspection software, project management tools, and materials testing equipment is commonly required. Strong leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for overseeing teams and interacting with contractors. These abilities are vital to ensure construction quality, regulatory compliance, and successful project delivery.

What is the difference between Chief Construction Inspector vs Construction Inspector?

AspectChief Construction InspectorConstruction Inspector
CertificationsTypically requires NICET Level III or IV, OSHA certificationsOften requires NICET Level I or II, OSHA certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects, manages inspection teams, coordinates with project managersPerforms on-site inspections, checks construction compliance, reports issues
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by government agencies, large construction firmsCommon in public and private construction projects

The main difference is that the Chief Construction Inspector holds a supervisory role overseeing multiple projects and inspection teams, while the Construction Inspector focuses on on-site inspections and compliance checks. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Are chief construction inspectors in high demand?

Chief construction inspectors are in steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects and construction activity. They typically require experience, certifications, and knowledge of building codes, and employment prospects are generally favorable in regions with active development. The role is essential for ensuring construction safety and compliance, supporting consistent job opportunities in the industry.

How much does a chief construction inspector make in the US?

The average salary for a chief construction inspector in the US is approximately $70,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. They typically require knowledge of building codes, inspection procedures, and may hold certifications such as ICC or NICET. Salaries can vary based on the size of the organization and regional demand for construction oversight.

What are popular job titles related to Chief Construction Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Chief Construction Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chief Construction Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Chief Construction Inspector jobs in Detroit, MI are:

Chief Construction Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Construction Inspector job openings in Detroit, MI as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,739 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Survey Crew Chief

Plymouth, MI • On-site

SME
See more jobs at SMEexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

The Opportunity
SME is seeking an experienced Survey Crew Chief to lead field survey operations supporting large site development/construction, transportation, energy, and industrial projects throughout Southeast Michigan.
This is a hands-on field role for a seasoned professional who enjoys solving real-world construction challenges and being trusted to execute work correctly the first time. Our Survey Crew Chiefs are respected for their expertise, have clear authority in the field, and are responsible for communicating with licensed surveyors and office staff to ensure accuracy and alignment on project needs.
What You'll Do:
Field Leadership & Execution
  • Lead daily survey field operations as a 1 person crew
  • Direct and mentor survey technicians; set expectations for productivity, quality, and safety
  • Serve as SME's on-site representative with owners, contractors, and inspectors
  • Make real-time field decisions to resolve layout conflicts, project challenges, and site conditions

Technical Survey Work
  • Perform and oversee:

    • Construction staking and layout
    • Boundary, ALTA/NSPS, topographic, and as-built- surveys

  • Operate robotic total stations, GPS/GNSS systems, and digital levels
  • Interpret construction drawings, plats, easements, and control networks
  • Deliver clean, complete field data; no routine CAD production expected

Safety & Quality
  • Enforce SME safety standards and job site protocols
  • Maintain survey equipment and assigned vehicles
  • Identify scope gaps or risks early and communicate proactively

What We're Looking For:
Required Experience
  • 5+ years of progressive land surveying field experience.
  • Proven experience functioning as a Survey Crew Chief, Party Chief, or senior field leader; or a strong Survey Technician ready to step into a lead role
  • Strong construction staking and site control background
  • Proficient with modern survey equipment and data collectors
  • Ability to interpret plans, plats, and legal descriptions
  • Valid driver's license; ability to travel throughout Northern Ohio
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying terrain, weather, and active construction environments, including walking extended distances on uneven ground and handling typical survey equipment, lifting/pushing/pulling/twisting, kneeling/standing/bending often.

Preferred Experience
  • Industrial, transportation, or heavy civil project experience
  • Surveyor Intern (SI) certification or progress toward licensure
  • UAV, laser scanning, or reality capture exposure
  • Large site development or DOT experience

Pay and Benefits
  • Paid overtime opportunities
  • Annual performance bonuses and profit sharing
  • Annual wage reviews and market adjustment
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage after 30 days
  • SME pays 100% of employee medical insurance premiums
  • 401(k) with company match and annual profit sharing
  • Competitive PTO plus Volunteer Time Off
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support

Field Role Specific Perks
  • Company vehicle provided
  • Typical weekday schedule; overtime varies by project
  • Expected workload of approximately 45-50+ hours/week, while prioritizing work/life balance
  • Majority of work is local/regional (limited overnight travel)
  • Modern survey equipment and strong technical support
  • Stable backlog and consistent workload

About SME
SME is an employee-owned consulting firm providing surveying, engineering, environmental, and construction services throughout the Midwest. We value integrity, practical solutions, and trusting experienced professionals to lead in the field.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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