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Safety Inspector Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

CEI Inspector Requisition Number: 2026-1610-09 S&ME is currently seeking entry-level to experienced ... Attend progress and safety meetings, working closely with contractors, engineers, and stakeholders ...

As a CEI Inspector, you'll play a critical role in overseeing contractor activities and ensuring ... Attend progress and safety meetings, working closely with contractors, engineers, and stakeholders ...

Safety

Blythewood, SC ยท On-site

Conduct routine site inspections, audits, risk assessments, and safety walkthroughs to identify and correct unsafe conditions and behaviors. * Develop and implement corrective and preventive action ...

Mid-Level Inspector

Columbia, SC ยท On-site

$55K - $63K/yr

Apply safety philosophy to all job responsibilities and ability to work safely in an outside ... Prepare daily inspection reports * Perform on-site material testing and sampling * Perform ...

Mid-Level Inspector

Columbia, SC ยท On-site

$55K - $63K/yr

Apply safety philosophy to all job responsibilities and ability to work safely in an outside ... Prepare daily inspection reports * Perform on-site material testing and sampling * Perform ...

Be Seen First

Maintain adherence to safety, environmental, and quality system standards. * Monitor process control systems and detect trends in product quality where applicable. Injection Molding Quality Inspector ...

New

Mid-Level Inspector

Columbia, SC ยท On-site

$55K - $63K/yr

Apply safety philosophy to all job responsibilities and ability to work safely in an outside ... Prepare daily inspection reports * Perform on-site material testing and sampling * Perform ...

Senior Construction Inspector

Columbia, SC ยท On-site

$72K - $82K/yr

Apply safety philosophy to all job responsibilities and ability to work safely in an outside ... Prepare daily inspection reports * Perform on-site material testing and sampling * Perform ...

Showing results 41-60

Safety Inspector information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$33.3K

$47.6K

$71.2K

How much do safety inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for safety inspector in Columbia, SC is $47,603.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,100.00 and $56,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a safety inspector?

A safety inspector works to locate potential hazards and ensure that a business, its employees, and its contractors comply with health and safety laws and industry regulations. In addition to inspection duties, your responsibilities could include making a report to the company or relevant regulatory body. You may also work to train staff about correct safety procedures. In addition to focusing on specific hazards at a job site, you may also inspect the workplace environment for air quality and other factors that may affect the general wellness of employees or customers.

What are some common challenges safety inspectors face when balancing compliance and operational efficiency?

Safety Inspectors often encounter the challenge of ensuring strict adherence to safety regulations while supporting smooth day-to-day operations. They must navigate situations where operational goals may conflict with compliance requirements and work collaboratively with management and staff to find practical solutions that uphold safety without hindering productivity. Building trust and clear communication with teams is essential, as is staying updated on evolving regulations to provide relevant guidance. Successful Safety Inspectors are proactive in identifying hazards, educating employees, and fostering a culture of safety throughout the organization.

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

To thrive as a Safety Inspector, you need a solid understanding of safety regulations, hazard identification, and risk assessment, often supported by a relevant degree or safety certification (such as OSHA or NEBOSH). Familiarity with inspection tools, incident reporting software, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills help a Safety Inspector stand out in the field. These capabilities are vital to ensure workplaces remain compliant, safe, and free from preventable accidents or violations.

What is the difference between Safety Inspector vs Safety Coordinator?

AspectSafety InspectorSafety Coordinator
CertificationsOSHA 10/30, NEBOSH, CSPOSHA 10/30, NEBOSH, CSP
Work EnvironmentInspections on-site, compliance checksPlanning, training, policy development
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, industrialConstruction, corporate, industrial
Primary FocusIdentifying hazards and ensuring complianceDeveloping safety programs and training

Safety Inspectors focus on on-site inspections to identify hazards and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Safety Coordinators develop safety policies, conduct training, and promote safety culture within organizations. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in daily responsibilities and work environment.

How much do safety inspectors make?

Safety inspectors in Florida typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and industry. Salaries can vary based on the specific sector, such as construction, environmental, or industrial safety, and may include benefits like health insurance and paid time off.

What do I need to become a safety inspector?

To become a safety inspector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant post-secondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in safety management, environmental health, or a related field. Certification, such as the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Occupational Health and Safety Technician (OHST), can enhance job prospects, and strong attention to detail, communication skills, and knowledge of safety regulations are essential. Experience in safety procedures or related industries is also valuable.

What are popular job titles related to Safety Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Safety Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Safety Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Safety Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Safety Inspector jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Safety Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Safety Inspector job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,603 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

CEI Inspector

S&ME, Inc.

Columbia, SC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

CEI Inspector
Requisition Number: 2026-1610-09
S&ME is currently seeking entry-level to experienced CEI Inspectors to join our team within our Columbia, South Carolina office. Being a CEI (Construction Engineering and Inspection) Inspector means ensuring transportation projects like roadways, bridges, greenways, airports, ports, and rail transportation projects meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards. Your expertise ensures compliance and quality in every aspect of construction.
As a CEI Inspector, you'll play a critical role in overseeing contractor activities and ensuring the successful completion of projects. You may make key technical decisions and work independently or as part of a team on projects.
Your Day-to-Day:
  • Oversee construction activities, such as earthmoving, paving, bridge construction, and traffic control, to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, and safety standards.
  • Inspect erosion control measures and environmental compliance while performing material sampling and quality testing.
  • Prepare detailed daily inspection reports, document contractor performance, and process payment records.
  • Conduct calculations, maintain records of material quantities, and ensure project timelines are met.
  • Attend progress and safety meetings, working closely with contractors, engineers, and stakeholders to resolve project challenges.
  • Perform DBE/EEO compliance surveys to verify adherence to inclusivity and workforce standards.

Compensation is based on experience, with additional bonuses for holding relevant certifications.
What You Bring
  • High school diploma/GED
  • Highway-related construction or inspection experience
  • A technical degree or higher in Civil Engineering Technology or Surveying Technology will equate to 1 year of experience
  • Active SCDOT-based certifications:
    • QMS Roadway/Conventional Density/Concrete Field Technician/Erosion Control Level II and/or Nuclear Gauge
  • Strong communication skills (speaking, reading, and writing) using the English language
  • Good math skills with a basic understanding of weight, volume, pressure, and units of measure
  • The understanding of a fluctuating schedule and interest in occasional travel

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:
You are willing and able to perform the physical demands of this position with the use of Company-provided Personal Protective Equipment, such as:
  • Working the majority of the time outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Walking over rough, uneven terrain and standing for potentially long periods
  • Routinely lifting and carrying 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
  • Working outside of normal business hours when necessary

We Are S&ME:
At S&ME, we're committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we've built a strong foundation for long-term careers. Our team of 1,000+ employee-owners across 10+ states works together to create meaningful impact for our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people-focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it's a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.
Here's what you can look forward to:
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
  • Wellness Program - $50 off per month on your 2027 premiums!
  • Pet Insurance
  • 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
  • Paid Maternity & Parental Leave
  • Mentorship & Career Development Programs
  • Credential Incentive Program - get rewarded for advancing your skills
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Recognition Program
  • Company Vehicle & Fuel Card - for project-based roles
  • $2,000 Employee Referral Bonuses - and more!

This full-time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I-9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk-ins are accepted.