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Entry Level Construction Observer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

ECS Ltd

Construction Technician (Entry-Level)

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Conduct observation, testing, and sampling of materials, including soils, aggregates, and concrete on construction materials testing project sites; Execute tasks based on project requirements under ...

ECS Ltd

Construction Technician (Entry-Level)

Raleigh, NC

$18 - $24.50/hr

Conduct observation, testing, and sampling of materials, including soils, aggregates, and concrete on construction materials testing project sites; Execute tasks based on project requirements under ...

GS Materials Inc

Equipment Operator

Princeton, NC · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Consistently observe plant operation for issues. Monitor Quality Control and production. Perform ... This position typically is not an entry-level job, as it requires demonstrable previous experience ...

Clayton Homes

Quality Assurance Manager

Oxford, NC · On-site

From entry-level to more experienced positions, we're actively recruiting individuals who are ... Responsible for ensuring HUD 302 reports, Alternate Construction reports and Energy Star reports ...

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All JobsConstruction Observer JobsEntry Level Construction Observer JobsEntry Level Construction Observer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Entry Level Construction Observer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$24

$35

How much do entry level construction observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level construction observer in Raleigh, NC is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the easiest construction job to get into?

Entry level construction observer roles are among the easiest construction jobs to enter, often requiring minimal experience and offering on-the-job training. These positions typically involve monitoring safety and work progress, and may require basic knowledge of construction sites and safety protocols. Certifications like OSHA 10 or 30-hour training can improve job prospects.

What are the most common challenges faced by entry level construction observers, and how can I prepare for them?

Entry level construction observers often face challenges like adapting to outdoor work environments, accurately documenting project progress, and maintaining clear communication with contractors and supervisors. You'll need to be detail-oriented when observing construction activities and ensure that all documentation is precise and timely. Building strong relationships with on-site teams and asking questions can help you overcome initial uncertainty. To prepare, familiarize yourself with construction plans, safety protocols, and reporting tools commonly used in the field.

How much does a construction observer make?

Entry-level construction observers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on location, experience, and employer. The annual salary generally ranges from $30,000 to $50,000, with opportunities for overtime and certification bonuses.

How can I get a construction job with no experience?

Entry level construction observer positions often require minimal experience and focus on basic safety knowledge and willingness to learn. Gaining relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training and demonstrating reliability can improve your chances; starting as a laborer or helper can also provide valuable on-the-job experience.

What are entry level construction observers?

Entry level construction observers are professionals who monitor and document construction activities on job sites to ensure work is completed according to approved plans, specifications, and safety standards. They typically assist more experienced observers or engineers by conducting site inspections, taking notes and photographs, and reporting any issues or discrepancies. This role often serves as a starting point for those looking to build a career in construction management, engineering, or inspection. While technical knowledge is helpful, much of the training is provided on the job.

What is the difference between Entry Level Construction Observer vs Construction Inspector?

AspectEntry Level Construction ObserverConstruction Inspector
CertificationsNone typically required; some may have OSHA or safety trainingOften requires certifications like NICET or state-specific inspector licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, monitoring ongoing workInspection sites, reviewing work quality and compliance
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, government agenciesPublic agencies, private firms, construction firms
Search & Comparison IntentEntry Level Construction Observer vs Construction Inspector

The Entry Level Construction Observer primarily monitors construction activities to ensure safety and adherence to plans, often with minimal certifications. Construction Inspectors have more specialized roles, requiring certifications and focusing on quality control and compliance. While both roles work on construction sites, Inspectors typically have more responsibility for detailed inspections and regulatory adherence.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level construction observer roles typically do not pay $4,000 a week; such high wages are more common in specialized trades, management positions, or roles requiring significant experience or certifications. High-paying construction-related jobs may include project managers, safety directors, or skilled trades like electricians or heavy equipment operators, often requiring experience or licensing rather than a degree.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Construction Observer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Construction Observer, you need a foundational understanding of construction practices, strong attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or associate degree in construction or engineering. Familiarity with construction documentation tools, basic surveying equipment, and reporting software like Microsoft Office is often required. Effective communication, observational skills, and reliability help you stand out in this role. These capabilities ensure accurate project documentation, safety compliance, and effective coordination with contractors and project managers.
Entry Level Construction Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Construction Observer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $50,872 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Transportation Construction Inspector (Entry-Level)

Transportation Construction Inspector (Entry-Level)

HDR

Raleigh, NC

Other

Posted 17 days ago

HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 369 rated engineering

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we work to weave diversity, equity, and inclusion into our work and foster a sense of belonging throughout the company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story' 
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

We believe construction services are more than project delivery, they're about safeguarding quality, safety, and trust at every step. As part of HDR's Field Services team, you'll be on the front lines of infrastructure development, making sure that what's designed is built to the highest standards. From highways and bridges to water treatment plants, transit systems, and power facilities, your work ensures that our clients' visions become reality, with precision, integrity, and excellence. Our construction professionals; Construction Managers, Inspectors, Resident Engineers, and field specialists bring deep technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and a commitment to quality that sets industry benchmarks. Your contributions are critical to delivering successful, resilient infrastructure. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to lead in the field, uphold the highest standards, and leave a legacy of quality that communities can rely on for generations. We are all employee-owners at HDR, which is the foundation of our collaborative culture that connects employees around the world.

HDR is looking for an Entry Level Construction Inspector to join our North Carolina Construction Engineering and Inspection (CEI) team to perform construction engineering and inspection duties on highway and bridge construction projects utilizing NCDOT policies and procedures. Work will include materials testing, construction observation, and reporting. This position will be trained to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications and be able to identify discrepancies or conflicts within the documents as well as enforcement of these contract documents.
Preferred Qualifications

  • High School diploma or equivalent 
  • Experience with MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Strong written and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a team     
  • Able to travel to meetings, site visits, and inspections
  • Must be licensed to operate motor vehicles in accordance with applicable state law
  • NCDOT experience
  • Tech school degree
  • Local candidates are preferred
  • *LI-SM1
Required Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Experience in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Strong written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • This position typically requires successfully passing drug-screening procedures prior to being hired; thereafter subject to random and cause drug and alcohol testing
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917

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