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Lead Inspector Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Resident Inspector

Laurel, MD · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

... lead. * Develop construction punch list * Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making ... High-School Diploma * 6+ years of experience in field inspection, civil, mechanical, structural ...

Lead, provide direction and may coordinate activities of lower level inspectors. * Performs advanced fieldwork and assists with project management. * Drive a vehicle such as a Ford F-150 or ...

At Numotion, we're on a mission to improve the lives of people with disabilities. As North America's largest provider of mobility products and services, we deliver personalized solutions from manual ...

Construction Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$71K - $80K/yr

... lead/only inspector for small projects (construction value of $5M or less) Assists Project Manager and Resident Engineer with other field assignments as needed Typical assignments will include ...

Certified Welding Inspector

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$30.25 - $42.25/hr

Lead, provide direction and may coordinate activities of lower level inspectors. * Performs advanced fieldwork and assists with project management. * Drive a vehicle such as a Ford F-150 or ...

Construction Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$71 - $81/hr

Serves as the lead/only inspector for small projects (construction value of $5M or less) * Assists Project Manager and Resident Engineer with other field assignments as needed Typical assignments ...

Certified Welding Inspector

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$28 - $37.75/hr

Construction Inspectors spend the majority of their time working on projects performing ... Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement. Terracon's vision of ...

Senior Inspector

Arlington, VA · On-site

$40.08 - $72.10/hr

May lead daily assignments, mentor, and train employees. * Performs other duties as assigned. What ... Produce thorough inspection reports and maintain detailed records of work performed * Prepare and ...

Senior Inspector

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$40.08 - $72.10/hr

May lead daily assignments, mentor, and train employees. * Performs other duties as assigned. What ... Produce thorough inspection reports and maintain detailed records of work performed * Prepare and ...

Construction Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$71K - $80K/yr

... the lead/only inspector for small projects (construction value of $5M or less) • Assists Project Manager and Resident Engineer with other field assignments as needed Typical assignments will ...

Showing results 41-60

Lead Inspector information

See Washington, DC salary details

$14

$34

$67

How much do lead inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead inspector in Washington, DC is $34.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.49 and $45.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead inspector?

Lead Inspectors are professionals responsible for identifying the presence of lead-based paint and other lead hazards in homes, schools, and other buildings. They conduct visual assessments, collect samples of dust, paint, and soil, and use specialized equipment to detect lead contamination. Their work is crucial for ensuring that environments meet safety standards and protect occupants, especially children, from the harmful effects of lead exposure. Lead Inspectors often work with property owners, contractors, and government agencies to recommend and oversee remediation efforts.

What does a lead inspector do?

A lead inspector examines homes or buildings for the presence of lead paint or other material with a lead base. In this career, you may work in residential homes, public facilities, or commercial buildings. Most facilities that serve children, such as schools, need to have their buildings checked for lead content. You walk through the building, inspecting every wall and surface for the possibility of lead and test the paint to determine the severity of the hazard. After each inspection, you document your findings for your client or company.

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

To thrive as a Lead Inspector, you need strong attention to detail, knowledge of industry regulations, and relevant experience or certifications in inspection practices. Familiarity with inspection tools, quality management systems, and reporting software is typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate teams and resolve issues efficiently. These skills are crucial to ensure compliance, maintain safety standards, and drive continuous improvement within inspection processes.

What are some common challenges faced by a lead inspector, and how are they typically addressed?

Lead Inspectors often encounter challenges such as managing tight project deadlines, coordinating with multiple teams, and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations. To address these, they rely on strong organizational skills, clear communication, and up-to-date knowledge of industry standards. Building strong relationships with team members and stakeholders also helps streamline inspection processes and resolve issues efficiently, ensuring projects remain on track and compliant.

What is the difference between Lead Inspector vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectLead InspectorQuality Control Inspector
CertificationsOften requires certifications like ASQ CQI, API, or specific industry standardsMay require basic certifications, but less frequently
Work EnvironmentSupervises inspection teams, coordinates inspections, and ensures compliancePerforms inspections, checks products or processes, and reports issues
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, construction, aerospace, and oil & gas industriesCommon across manufacturing, automotive, and production sectors

The main difference between a Lead Inspector and a Quality Control Inspector is that the Lead Inspector oversees inspection teams and manages inspection processes, while the Quality Control Inspector primarily conducts inspections and reports on product quality. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in ensuring compliance and quality standards within various industries.

How much do lead inspectors make?

Lead inspectors in New York City typically earn an average salary of around $70,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry sector. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of inspections, employer size, and additional skills such as report writing or specialized knowledge.

What are popular job titles related to Lead Inspector jobs in Washington, DC?

For Lead Inspector jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lead Inspector jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Inspector jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Lead Inspector job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,735 per year, or $35 per hour.

Resident Inspector

DM Enterprises

Laurel, MD • On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 hours ago


Key responsibilities

  • Oversee field inspection activities, monitor construction progress, and ensure compliance with project plans, specifications, schedules, and regulations.

  • Review and approve construction documentation, quantities, submittals, RFIs, and payment estimates, and coordinate with contractors and project teams.

  • Supervise field inspectors, review daily logs, and develop construction punch lists to support project quality and schedule adherence.


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition assistance
  • Vision insurance

DME is seeking an experienced Construction Inspector / Construction Oversight Professional to support water, wastewater, and infrastructure construction projects. The successful candidate will act as the Owner’s Representative, overseeing field inspection activities, monitoring construction progress, ensuring quality assurance, and verifying compliance with project plans, specifications, schedules, and applicable regulations. This role requires strong coordination with field inspectors, contractors, and project management teams, as well as experience reviewing construction documentation, quantities, submittals, RFIs, and payment estimates. The ideal candidate will bring a hands-on construction inspection background, a strong understanding of safety and quality standards, and the ability to work independently while supporting overall project objectives.
Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Prepare the Daily Construction Log for all activities and project progress using the client’s software application/tool
  • Supervise field inspectors and assign their tasks 
  • Review & approve field inspector's Daily Construction Log 
  • Review construction quantities and verify for the installed quantity.
  • Perform Quality Assurance on the installed materials
  • Review and Process contractor's monthly payment estimate, 
  • Monitor construction schedule and address any deficiencies with the Construction Manager/Project Manager
  • Act as the Owner’s agent with regards to the construction process.
  • Review progression of work to monitor and generally reconcile against construction schedule.
  • Read/Understand contractor submittals, request for information (RFI), change order requests, and as-built drawings and comments.
  • Attend construction progress meetings
  • Schedule, Coordinate and Chair all as-built meetings
  • Attend and Document all field testing, start-up and commissioning 
  • Ensure housekeeping is being conducted per contractual specifications 
  • Communicate conditions and field conflicts/changes to Resident Inspector.
  • Interface with client and the contractor, while working with, and taking direction from the Resident Inspector.
  • Keep detailed records of contractor’s performance and progress.
  • Oversee/Track the technical submittal, shop drawing review and RFI process, with support of design lead.
  • Develop construction punch list
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to DME’s Code of Conduct, and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.
Minimum Requirements:
  • High-School Diploma 
  • 6+ years of experience in field inspection, civil, mechanical, structural, electrical, disciplines work on water/wastewater pumping station & treatment plant projects 
  • Experience in storm water management and environmental projects.
  • Highly familiar with construction inspection principles, field inspection practices, processes, methods and techniques.
  • Highly familiar with relevant construction codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives. 
  • Solid knowledge in MS Office including Excel, Word and Outlook.
  • knowledge of Oracle Oracle Unifier or e-Builder.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by DME’s health, safety and drug/alcohol, and harassment policies.
  • Valid driver’s license
 
Certifications: 
hold the following certifications, or obtain within six months
  • US Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) CQM, or obtain it within 3 months
  • 30-Hour OSHA 
  • Confined Space
  • Temporary Traffic Control Manager
  • ACI Certification (asphalt, compaction, concrete)
  • Water Sampling