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How much do special inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for special inspector in Virginia is $22.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $24.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Special Inspector, you need a thorough understanding of construction codes, materials testing, and inspection procedures, typically backed by certifications such as ICC, ACI, or AWS. Familiarity with field testing equipment, reporting software, and digital documentation systems is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and integrity are crucial soft skills for effectively interacting with contractors and upholding safety standards. These skills ensure construction projects meet regulatory requirements and quality benchmarks, safeguarding public safety and project integrity.

What are some common challenges faced by Special Inspectors during construction projects, and how can they be addressed?

Special Inspectors often face challenges such as managing tight inspection schedules, coordinating with multiple contractors, and ensuring adherence to evolving building codes. Clear communication and thorough documentation are essential to resolve discrepancies and avoid delays. Building strong professional relationships with site personnel helps facilitate smoother inspections and promotes a collaborative approach to problem-solving.

What are Special Inspectors?

Special Inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that construction projects comply with approved plans, specifications, and building codes. They perform on-site inspections and tests of materials, workmanship, and building systems during construction. Special Inspectors are often certified in specific areas, such as concrete, structural steel, or fireproofing, and their role is critical in maintaining safety and quality standards. They work independently of contractors and report their findings to building officials and project stakeholders.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Construction and building inspectors, especially those with specialized skills such as structural, electrical, or mechanical inspection, tend to earn the highest salaries among inspector roles. Senior inspectors with certifications and extensive experience working on large projects or in high-risk industries generally have higher earning potential.

What is the difference between Special Inspector vs Building Inspector?

AspectSpecial InspectorBuilding Inspector
CertificationsOften requires certifications like NICET or state-specific licensesTypically requires general building inspection certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentPrimarily on construction sites, focusing on specific systems or materialsInspects entire buildings for code compliance, often in office settings and on-site
Employer & Industry UsageUsed mainly in construction, civil engineering, and infrastructure projectsCommonly employed by local government, municipalities, and private firms

Special Inspectors focus on specific construction elements like structural, electrical, or mechanical systems, requiring specialized certifications. Building Inspectors perform comprehensive building code compliance checks for entire structures. While both roles ensure safety and adherence to codes, Special Inspectors have a more specialized scope within the construction process.

What are popular job titles related to Special Inspector jobs in Virginia? For Special Inspector jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Special Inspector jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Special Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Special Inspector jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Special Inspector job openings:
Special Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Inspector job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 18% Full Time, 74% Part Time, 3% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 68% Physical, 11% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,253 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Special Inspector, CWI

Special Inspector, CWI

Universal Engineering Sciences

Ashland, VA • On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Universal Engineering Sciences rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

316th of 349 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
At UES, we're a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose-to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.
Position Overview
As a Special Inspector with CWI, you will be responsible for providing various testing and inspections on new and on-going projects to verify compliance with building codes and standards.
Responsibilities
  • Perform routine field tests or inspections
  • Complete structural concrete and reinforcing code and job specification compliance
  • Read maps, blueprints, follow directions, and interpret engineering and construction plans
  • Understand structural masonry code and job specification compliance
  • Determine pre-stressed and post tension concrete tendons, reinforcing code and job specification compliance
  • Perform inspections of soil, concrete, asphalt, steel and/or wood framing
  • Determine spray-applied fireproofing code and job specification compliance
  • Document accurate and detailed field activity/inspections and report findings/diagrams to the clients and supervisors
  • Communicate daily with site contractors, other technicians, and project managers verbally and electronically
  • Complete and prepare accurate and detailed field-testing reports daily
  • Follow all safety procedures, policies and protocols
  • Vehicle maintenance, inspection, and adherence to safety policies and procedures
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Must be at least 18 years old for entry onto job sites
  • Valid Driver's License with acceptable driving record
  • Experience of 2+ years in field and/or inspections
  • Preferred: AAS or BS in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology or related degree
  • Strong knowledge of relevant DOT material specifications and testing procedures
  • Required Certifications:
    • Active ICC Certifications: Masonry, Soils, Spray-Applied Fireproofing, Post-Tension, Concrete, etc. or EI (Engineer-In-Training) licensure
    • Active CWI certification
  • Ability to pass a background check screening
  • Ability to read and interpret construction documents
  • Ability to calculate results from construction inspections
  • Ability to accurately perform field testing documentation and detailed figures
  • Ability to read and interpret construction documents and technical specifications
  • Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos
  • Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations, to customers, clients, construction teams, and other employees of the organization
  • Strong written and verbal communication and ability to use technology/computer

Preferred Qualifications
  • Preferred Certifications:
    • ACCP Certification
    • Radiation Safety, DOT Roadway, Earthworks Certifications
    • Additional Applicable Industry Certifications

Travel Requirements
This position requires extensive travel, approximately up to 70% of the time, in support of business objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on-site work.
#LI-RS1
Physical Demands & Work Environment
  • Work normally performed outside includes exposure to weather conditions such as precipitation, extreme cold or heat, dusty and noisy work environments.
  • The physical requirements for this position may include and are not limited to:
    • Ability to lift and/or carry up to 40 lbs
    • Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time as well as drive long distances
    • Frequent use of fingers, hands and arms for typing, cellphone
    • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, lift, carry, and push repetitively
    • Ability to speak and hear effectively to communicate sometimes with noisy environments
    • Ability to see, smell, hear and touch as well as reach, climb or balance, crouch, stoop, crawl, kneel and sit
    • Ability to regularly lift and/or move/shake up to 40lbs. (soil and/or concrete tests and related apparatus); frequently lift and/or move up to 60lbs. (soil and sand samples, and nuclear density equipment); and occasionally move more than 100lbs. (such as a loaded wheelbarrow of concrete samples)

EEO Statement
UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here
Posted Salary Range
USD $35.00 - USD $45.00 /Hr.

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About Universal Engineering Sciences

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Universal Engineering Sciences, based in Orlando, FL, US, is a reputable name in the field of geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, construction materials testing, and inspection services. With an impressive industry presence of over six decades since its establishment in 1964, Universal Engineering Sciences specializes in providing engineering consulting services that effectively address multiple civil, structural, and geotechnical challenges. Their extensive service portfolio includes environmental assessments, field testing services, laboratory testing services, and quality control consulting, among others. As a stalwart advocate of integrity, excellence, service, and people, Universal Engineering Sciences takes pride in delivering exceptional services that realize their mission of setting industry standards through technical superiority and efficient communication.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Orlando, FL, US

Year founded

1964

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