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Highway Safety Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Federal Railroad Administration

MA

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train contrl and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

Federal Railroad Administration

CA · On-site

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train contrl and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

Department of Transportation

MA · On-site

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train contrl and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

Department of Transportation

TX · On-site

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train contrl and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

Department of Transportation

MA · On-site

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train contrl and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

Federal Railroad Administration

MA

$89K/yr

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train contrl and highway-rail grade crossing warning ...

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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 Jun 15, 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 do you become a road inspector?

To become a highway safety 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 a valid driver's license is usually necessary for fieldwork.

How long does it take to be a safety inspector?

Becoming a highway safety inspector typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification programs that can last from a few weeks to several months. Some positions may also require prior experience in transportation, engineering, or safety inspection, and passing relevant exams or certifications may be necessary before employment.

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 required 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 often required. A valid driver's license and good communication skills are also important for performing inspections and documenting findings.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Highway safety inspectors who have advanced certifications, specialized skills, or supervisory roles tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors with experience in areas like construction, traffic management, or environmental compliance often command higher pay. Management or lead inspector positions generally offer the highest compensation within the field.
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:
Highway Safety Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Highway Safety Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% As Needed, 33% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 34% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,171 per year, or $41.9 per hour.
Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control) -SME

Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control) -SME

Federal Railroad Administration

Albany, NY

$89K/yr

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

As a Railroad Safety Inspector (Signal & Train Control), you will enforce Federal safety and health regulations that are concern with signal and train contrl and highway-rail grade crossing warning systems within an assigned territory.

Qualifications:

To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must meet the specialized experience qualifications. 

To be qualified for a Railroad Safety Inspector, the Qualifications Standards states you MUST have demonstrated knowledge in the following areas:

  • Railroad industry, including economic and operating considerations and equipment.
  • General safety and health principles and practices applicabe to the railroad industry.
  • Railroad accident investigation tehcniques.
  • Skill in written and oral communication.
  • Knowledge of the design, installation, maintenance, testing, or inspection of signal and train control systems and their capabilities and limitations.
  • Knowledge of applicable Federal laws and regulations pertaining to railroad signaling and train control systems ; AND
  • Knowledge of locomotive braking systems and their relationship to and interface with train control or automatic train stop systems and braking distances.   

To qualify for the Grade 12, you must have at least one year of experience equal or equivalent to the GS-11 it must include:

  • Experience applying your knowledge of the applicable Federal laws, and regulations perftaining to railroad signal systems and highway-rail grade crossing warning systems.
  • Experience conducting inspections related to the Signal and Train Control discipline.
  • Experience writing and presenting information pertaining to signal and train control systems and highway-rail grade crossing active warning systems.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:

  1. Decision Making- Makes sound, well-informed, and objective decisions; perceives the impact and implications of decisions; commits to action, even in uncertain situations, to accomplish organizational goals; causes change.
  2. Compliance- Knowledge of procedures for assessing, evaluating, and monitoring programs or projects for compliance with Federal laws, regulations, and guidance.
  3. Communication- Experience writing and presenting information pertaining to signal and train control systems and highway- rail grade crossing active warning systems.
  4. Accident Investigation- Knowledge of guidelines, regulations, and procedures associated with an accident investigation including preservation of accident scene, root cause analysis, and evidence detection and handling.

For all types of consideration, experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social).  Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.  You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
For additional information about applying to Federal positions, please click on the following link:  https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-policies/#url=e4
All applicants must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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