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Highway Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perform construction inspection and observation of highway and/or bridge construction work for compliance with NMDOT, Municipality, County, and Tribal plans, specifications and contract documents;

Perform construction inspection and observation of highway and/or bridge construction work for compliance with NMDOT, Municipality, County, and Tribal plans, specifications and contract documents;

T758 JOB SUMMARY The purpose of this classification is to inspect construction projects to enforce City, state and federal regulations, codes, and standards on each project. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS ...

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Highway Inspector information

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$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do highway inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for highway inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a highway inspector do?

A Highway Inspector is responsible for monitoring and assessing the condition of roads, highways, and related infrastructure to ensure they meet safety and quality standards. They inspect construction sites, check materials and workmanship, and verify compliance with regulations and plans. Highway Inspectors may also document findings, report hazards, and recommend repairs or improvements. Their work helps ensure public safety and the longevity of transportation networks.

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

To thrive as a Highway Inspector, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, roadway construction standards, and relevant safety codes, typically supported by a degree in civil engineering or construction management. Familiarity with inspection tools, surveying equipment, and software like AutoCAD or GIS is commonly required, along with certifications such as NICET. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help inspectors effectively identify issues and coordinate with contractors and government agencies. These skills are crucial for ensuring road safety, regulatory compliance, and the successful completion of highway projects.

How does a highway inspector typically collaborate with contractors and engineers during a project?

Highway Inspectors work closely with contractors and engineers to ensure that construction and maintenance projects adhere to safety standards, design specifications, and regulatory requirements. They regularly attend site meetings, review plans, and provide on-the-ground feedback to address any issues or discrepancies. Inspectors may also document progress, report problems, and recommend solutions, fostering effective communication between all parties to keep the project on track. This collaborative environment helps ensure that projects are completed efficiently and to the required quality standards.

What is the difference between Highway Inspector vs Road Maintenance Technician?

AspectHighway InspectorRoad Maintenance Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may require certifications in construction or safetyHigh school diploma; certifications in equipment operation or safety often preferred
Work EnvironmentInspecting highways, construction sites, and infrastructure; outdoor workPerforming maintenance tasks on roads, including repairs and equipment operation; outdoor work
Employer & Industry UsageState and local transportation departments, construction firmsMunicipalities, transportation agencies, private contractors

Highway Inspectors focus on inspecting and ensuring the safety and compliance of highway infrastructure, while Road Maintenance Technicians perform hands-on repairs and maintenance tasks. Both roles work outdoors and require safety certifications, but their primary responsibilities differ in inspection versus maintenance activities.

How to become a highway inspector?

To become a highway inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in construction, engineering, or transportation. Some positions require relevant certifications or training in safety standards and inspection procedures, and strong attention to detail is essential for monitoring road conditions and compliance.
More about Highway Inspector jobs

What cities are hiring for Highway Inspector jobs?

Cities with the most Highway Inspector job openings:

What states have the most Highway Inspector jobs?

States with the most job openings for Highway Inspector jobs include:

Infographic showing various Highway Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Construction Highway Inspector

WSP

Albuquerque, NM

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 8 hours ago


WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

This Opportunity

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Full-Time Highway Construction Inspector  for our Albuquerque, NM office.  Be involved in projects with our Project Management/Construction Management Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our client's objectives and solves their challenges..

Your Impact

  • Perform construction inspection and observation of highway and/or bridge construction work for compliance with NMDOT, Municipality, County, and Tribal plans, specifications and contract documents; Work includes but is not limited to inspection of earthwork, hot mix asphalt, concrete structures, concrete placements, base course, subgrade, guardrail, culverts and drainage structures, curb and gutter, sidewalk, lighting, signals, striping, utilities, and traffic control
  • Interpret plans, specifications and contract documents to verify contract compliance
  • Prepare daily work reports; prepare and maintain documentation of contractor work performed; observe and perform materials testing and inspect traffic control based on construction plans and specifications. Use SiteManager Construction Management System, spead sheets, or other electronic or manual means to document construction project activity
  • Perform sampling and testing of concrete in conformance with NMDOT  and other specifications and procedures
  • Perform moisture/density testing of soils, base course and Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) in conformance with NMDOT Specifications and procedures using a portable moisture/density gauge
  • Perform sampling of soils, base course, aggregates and HMA in conformance with NMDOT specifications and procedures.
  • Document work item quantities accepted and approved for payment; report pay quantities using SiteManager or other electronic means prepare and review reports and documentation
  • Verify contractor compliance with project safety procedures; Inspect and document contractor traffic control set-ups
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

#LI-TD1

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

  • High School Diploma.
  • Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in construction, construction inspection  or construction testing.  
  • Valid state driver's license.
  • Familiar with construction inspection principles, field inspection practices, process, methods and techniques.
  • Familiar with relevant construction codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
  • Sound interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to a technical and non-technical audience.
  • Sound self-leadership with attention to detail, accuracy, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to learn new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, follow instruction, and comply with company policies.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
  • Analytical mindset to exercise sound judgement in evaluating situations and making decisions.
  • Basic proficiency with technical writing, office automation, software, technology, spreadsheets, and tools.
  • Ability to provide input and feedback to others in the field such as subcontractors and work colleagues to consistently complete tasks safely, efficiently, and accurately according to specifications.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Certifications in or the ability to become certified in concrete, hot-mix, soils, traffic control, densometer gauge, materials sampling and testing by the ACNM/NMDOT Technician and Certification Program (TTCP)
  • American Concrete Institute (ACI) Certification
  • Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) Certification.
About WSP

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.

www.wsp.com

WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.

At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?

WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:

WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand.  Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service. 


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