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Motor Vehicle Inspector Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Amentum

Motor Vehicle Mechanic

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

Responsible for completion of vehicle inspections and performing maintenance necessary to prepare vehicles for testing. Also performs necessary periodic maintenance on a variety of vehicles ranging ...

Pae

Motor Vehicle Mechanic

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

Responsible for completion of vehicle inspections and performing maintenance necessary to prepare vehicles for testing. Also performs necessary periodic maintenance on a variety of vehicles ranging ...

Kenan Advantage Group

Diesel Technician I

Clare, MI

$18 - $36/hr

Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspector 3 years experience or 1 year experience and ability to obtain * Diesel Mechanics are required to safely and accurately perform general property and vehicle ...

Royal Oak, City of (MI)

Building Inspector

Royal Oak, MI · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

A valid motor vehicle operator's license with a satisfactory driving record. Qualifications for Employment: Thorough knowledge of the methods and materials used in building design and construction.

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All JobsMotor Vehicle Inspector JobsMotor Vehicle Inspector Jobs in Michigan

Motor Vehicle Inspector information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$17

$22

How much do motor vehicle inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for motor vehicle inspector in Michigan is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $17.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a motor vehicle inspector?

Motor Vehicle Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining vehicles to ensure they comply with safety, emissions, and regulatory standards set by local or national authorities. Their duties often include checking vehicles for proper function of lights, brakes, steering, and emissions control systems, as well as verifying legal documentation. Motor Vehicle Inspectors may work for government agencies, private inspection stations, or motor vehicle departments. Their work helps keep roads safer and ensures vehicles meet environmental standards.

What does a motor vehicle inspector do?

Motor Vehicle Inspectors are responsible for inspecting various types of motor vehicles to ensure they're up to code and functioning properly. Specifically, a Motor Vehicle Inspector may examine or operate vehicles to check for damage or any malfunctions. They may also inspect the vehicle itself, accessories, air lines, and circuits to ensure everything is functioning properly and then reporting any repairs that may be needed. Depending on the state in which they work, they may administer state-sponsored emissions testing on vehicles, which may be required before a vehicle owner can register or renew registration of the vehicle. Motor Vehicle Inspectors may be required to notify authorities or the state of any illegally installed equipment, serious safety issues, or failure of an emmissions test.

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

To thrive as a Motor Vehicle Inspector, you need knowledge of automotive systems, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized training or certification. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, emissions testing equipment, and inspection checklists is crucial for accurate assessments. Attention to detail, strong communication, and integrity help inspectors interact with vehicle owners and ensure regulatory compliance. These skills are vital to uphold safety standards, prevent road hazards, and maintain public trust in vehicle inspections.

What are some common challenges faced by motor vehicle inspectors in their day-to-day work?

Motor Vehicle Inspectors often encounter challenges such as keeping up with evolving safety and emissions regulations, handling high volumes of vehicles during peak periods, and effectively communicating inspection results to vehicle owners who may not be familiar with technical terms. Additionally, inspectors must maintain attention to detail to ensure all safety standards are met, while working in environments that may be noisy or require physical activity. Collaboration with other inspectors, law enforcement, and administrative staff is also key to efficiently managing workflow and ensuring regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Motor Vehicle Inspector vs Vehicle Inspector?

AspectMotor Vehicle InspectorVehicle Inspector
CredentialsDriving license, vehicle inspection certificationVehicle inspection certification, possibly driving license
Work EnvironmentInspection centers, roadside checks, government agenciesInspection centers, private or government agencies
Employer & IndustryTransport departments, government agenciesPrivate companies, government agencies, transport sector
Search & Comparison IntentVehicle safety, compliance, licensingVehicle condition, safety standards, compliance

Motor Vehicle Inspectors primarily focus on ensuring vehicles meet safety and regulatory standards, often working for government agencies. Vehicle Inspectors may work in similar environments but can also be employed by private firms, focusing on vehicle condition and safety compliance. Both roles require relevant certifications and involve vehicle inspections, but their specific responsibilities and employers differ slightly.

More about Motor Vehicle Inspector jobs

What are popular job titles related to Motor Vehicle Inspector jobs in MI?

For Motor Vehicle Inspector jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Motor Vehicle Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Motor Vehicle Inspector job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,972 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Motor Vehicle Operator

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Battle Creek, MI • On-site

$24.69/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Battle Creek VA Medical Center is recruiting for a Motor Vehicle Operator. The Motor Vehicle Operator will function under the Veterans Transportation Service. The position is responsible for operating a variety of patient transport vehicles-including emergency vehicles, vans, buses, and other transport vehicles designed to carry eight or more passengers.Qualifications:To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 09/14/2026.
EXPERIENCE: A specific length of training and experience is not required, but you must show evidence of training or experience of sufficient scope and quality of your ability to do the work of this position. Evidence which demonstrates you possess the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of this position must be supported by detailed descriptions of such on your resume. Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Federal Wage System Qualification Standards.
SCREEN-OUT ELEMENT: Your qualifications will first be evaluated against the prescribed screen out element, which usually appears as question 1 in the on-line questionnaire. Those applicants who appear to possess at least the minimal acceptable qualification requirement are considered for further rating; those who do not are rated ineligible and are eliminated. The potential eligibles are then rated against the remainder of the Job Elements:
  • Drive Safely
  • Interpret Instructions, Specifications (mobile equipment operations)
  • Motor Vehicles
  • Reliability And Dependability
  • Without more than normal supervision
  • Work Practices

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; religions; 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.
Note: A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment.
Physical Requirements/Working Conditions: Work requires reaching, turning, or moving hands, arms, feet, and legs to operate hand and foot controls. Incumbent will be required to assist patients with a variety of medical conditions and/or disabilities. Associated duties require stooping, bending, lifting, climbing, and securing patients, oxygen, and wheelchairs with appropriate securing devices. Lifts and carries objects weighing up to 50 pounds and heavier. Must follow prescribed safety procedures using appropriate lifting methods and body mechanics for heavy lifting or moving of heavy objects. Must be able to drive for a minimum of a four-hour period and stay mentally alert. If driver realizes they are not mentally alert, they must use good judgment in pulling over at the first safe area, road- checking vehicle with walk-around inspection, and continue driving as soon as possible.Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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