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Highway Safety Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Safety Manual and Highway Capacity Manual; Develop detailed traffic control plans using MUTCD ; Manage sub-consultants, conduct site and field inspections monitoring budgets, schedules and quality ...

... Safety Manual and Highway Capacity Manual; Develop detailed traffic control plans using MUTCD ; Manage sub-consultants, conduct site and field inspections monitoring budgets, schedules and quality ...

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Highway Safety Inspector information

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$37.5K

$87.2K

$130K

How much do highway safety inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for highway safety inspector in the United States is $87,171.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Highway Safety Inspector, you need a solid understanding of transportation safety regulations, inspection procedures, and usually a background in civil engineering or law enforcement. Familiarity with data collection tools, GPS mapping systems, and inspection reporting software is typically required, along with certifications such as the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) certification. Attention to detail, strong observational skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure thorough inspections, accurate reporting, and enhanced roadway safety for the public.

What is the difference between Highway Safety Inspector vs Highway Maintenance Worker?

AspectHighway Safety InspectorHighway Maintenance Worker
Required CertificationsState safety certifications, driver’s licenseNone specific, CDL may be preferred
Work EnvironmentInspections, field assessments, regulatory complianceRoad repairs, construction sites, maintenance tasks
Employer & Industry UsageTransportation departments, safety agenciesPublic works departments, construction companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The comparison shows that Highway Safety Inspectors focus on safety assessments and compliance, often requiring certifications and working in inspection environments. Highway Maintenance Workers perform physical repair and maintenance tasks on roads, with less emphasis on certifications. Both roles are essential in highway management but serve different functions within the transportation industry.

How to become a highway construction inspector?

To become a highway construction inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in construction or civil engineering. Many employers prefer applicants with knowledge of construction materials, safety standards, and inspection tools, and some positions require certification such as the NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) in construction inspection.

What does a Highway Safety Inspector do?

A Highway Safety Inspector is responsible for monitoring and enforcing safety regulations on roads and highways. Their duties typically include inspecting roadways, signage, and construction zones to ensure compliance with safety standards, investigating accidents, and recommending improvements. They may also educate the public and contractors about safe practices and assist in the development of safety policies. By ensuring adherence to safety rules, they help reduce accidents and promote safer travel for everyone.

What are some common challenges Highway Safety Inspectors face during field inspections?

Highway Safety Inspectors often encounter challenges such as adverse weather conditions, heavy traffic, and ensuring personal safety while working near roadways. They must also accurately document findings and communicate effectively with contractors, maintenance crews, and local authorities to address safety concerns. Staying current with evolving regulations and adapting to new technologies or inspection protocols are also important aspects of the role.

What is the highest paid safety job?

Highway Safety Inspectors typically earn moderate salaries, but the highest paid safety jobs are often in executive roles such as Safety Directors or Safety Managers in large corporations, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. Specialized roles requiring advanced certifications or extensive experience tend to offer higher compensation in the safety field.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Among highway safety inspectors, those with advanced certifications, specialized skills, or supervisory roles tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors working for government agencies or in regions with higher living costs generally have higher pay. Experience and additional training can also lead to increased earnings in this field.

What is needed to be a safety inspector?

To become a highway safety inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in transportation or safety, and knowledge of safety regulations and inspection procedures. Certification or training in safety standards and the ability to operate inspection tools are also important. Strong attention to detail and communication skills are essential for the role.
More about Highway Safety Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Highway Safety Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Highway Safety Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Highway Safety Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Highway Safety Inspector jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Highway Safety Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Highway Safety Inspector jobs are:
Infographic showing various Highway Safety Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,171 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Transportation Bridge Safety Inspector 4 - Mercer County

West Virginia Department of Transportation

Charleston, WV • On-site

$53K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


West Virginia Department Of Transportation rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

736th of 841 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary : $53,444.14 - $77,244.13 Annually
Location : District 10, 270 Hardwood Lane, Princeton, WV
Job Type: Full-Time Permanent
Job Number: DOT27DX013A
Division: West Virginia Department of Transportation
District/Subdivision: District 10
Opening Date: 07/31/2026
Closing Date: 8/6/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Nature of Work
**Disclaimer-this position will be considered classified-exempt and "at will."
The Transportation Bridge Safety Inspector 4 (TBSAIN level 4) will report to the Bridge Department at the District 10 Headquarters. This position performs advanced level bridge safety inspection and analysis work and supervises the performance of a bridge safety inspection team. May perform strenuous physical labor. Hazardous working conditions involve climbing on the superstructure and substructure of bridges. The work may involve exposure to severe weather conditions. Performs related work as required.
Pay Grade 17
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
• Plans and schedules the work of bridge safety inspection teams within the district.
• Supervises the work performed through the bridge safety inspection team supervisors.
• Reviews and edits draft inspection reports completed by inspectors for accuracy, completeness, and conformance to established guidelines.
• Performs preliminary technical analysis such as stress analysis.
• Reviews the quality of completed inspection work by comparing reported data with actual structural condition.
• Writes periodic progress reports on the bridge safety inspection program within a district as required.
• Works as an inspection team member or inspection team supervisor in the absence of other inspectors or supervisors.
• Travel may be required; therefore, a valid driver's license is required.
Skills and Knowledge
• Knowledge of the manuals and standards of the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials and the American Institute of Steel Construction applicable to bridge safety inspection.
• Knowledge of federal and state manuals and standards applicable to bridge safety inspection.
• Knowledge of bridge design and construction principles and bridge mechanics.
• Ability to effectively supervise the work of others.
• Ability to interpret plans and specifications.
• Ability to perform stress analysis.
• Ability to compute areas and volumes.
• Ability to keep accurate notes and records.
• Ability to make detailed sketches.
• Ability to complete standard forms and inventories.
• Ability to write narrative technical reports.
• Ability to climb bridge structures and perform strenuous physical activities.
Minimum Requirements
REQUIRED TRAINING/EDUCATION
  • Certification as a Transportation Bridge Safety Inspector 4 by the West Virginia Department of Transportation.
    OR
  • Pre-Certification as a Transportation Bridge Safety Inspector level 4 by the West Virginia Transportation Engineering Technician Certification Board.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE
  • No experience is required.

Annual Increment Pay
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Paid Sick Leave
Family Medical Leave
Leave Donation Program
Military Leave
Employee Education Reimbursement & Leave Program
Flexible Work Schedules
Training Opportunities
Promotion Opportunities
Public Employees' Retirement System:
  1. Employees enrolled in PERS Tier 1 contribute 4.5% of their gross salary. The Employer contributes 9%.
  2. Employees enrolled in PERS Tier 2 contribute 6.0% of their gross salary. The Employer contributes 9%.

Deferred Compensation
Health Insurance Enrollment
Additional Coverage Options including Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts,
Disability Insurance and more.
Life Insurance
Credit Union
Employee Discounts

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