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Sr Inspector Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

As a Senior Construction Inspector with RK&K you will lead and strengthen our construction engineering and inspection business including highway, bridge, and design-build /design-build projects.

We are currently searching for an experienced Senior Bridge Inspector to support our Gulf Region located in Memphis, TN . To be considered for this position, applicants must have, at minimum, a high ...

As a Sr. Refinery Inspector you will ensure that refinery fixed equipment is reliable and safe to operate. At Valero, we are committed to advancing the future of energy through innovation, ingenuity ...

The Senior Inspectors should have 10+ years of experience working on DOT and/or other local agency construction programs and experience inspecting/managing CEI projects and supervising teams of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Sr Inspector information

See Tennessee salary details

$27.7K

$68.3K

$120.3K

How much do sr inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr inspector in Tennessee is $68,323.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $85,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Sr inspector?

Sr Inspectors, or Senior Inspectors, are experienced professionals responsible for overseeing and ensuring compliance with regulations, standards, or codes within a specific industry. They often conduct inspections, audits, or assessments to verify that operations, products, or services meet required quality and safety standards. Sr Inspectors may also mentor junior inspectors, document findings, provide recommendations for corrective actions, and communicate results to management or regulatory bodies. Their expertise is critical in preventing issues and maintaining high standards within their field.

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

To thrive as a Sr Inspector, you need expertise in quality control procedures, inspection techniques, and a thorough understanding of industry regulations, often supported by relevant certifications or technical diplomas. Familiarity with inspection tools, measurement devices, and software systems like CAD or QA databases is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help Sr Inspectors resolve issues and ensure compliance. These competencies are vital for maintaining product quality, safety standards, and operational efficiency in manufacturing or construction environments.

What are some common challenges Sr inspectors face when balancing quality standards with production deadlines?

Sr Inspectors often need to ensure strict adherence to quality and safety standards while also supporting production teams in meeting tight schedules. This can require effective prioritization, strong communication with both management and floor staff, and the ability to diplomatically address issues without disrupting workflow. Building collaborative relationships and proactively identifying potential bottlenecks can help Sr Inspectors maintain high standards without causing unnecessary delays.

What is the difference between Sr Inspector vs Quality Inspector?

AspectSr InspectorQuality Inspector
Required CredentialsTypically requires experience, certifications like ASQ CQI, and technical knowledgeOften requires high school diploma, certifications like ASQ CQI or equivalent preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, construction sites, or industrial settingsManufacturing facilities, laboratories, or inspection stations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and construction industriesCommon in manufacturing, electronics, and quality assurance sectors

The main difference between a Sr Inspector and a Quality Inspector lies in experience and responsibility. A Sr Inspector typically has more experience, advanced certifications, and oversees complex inspections, while a Quality Inspector performs routine inspections to ensure product quality. Both roles are essential in maintaining standards but differ in scope and seniority.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Sr Inspector jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Sr Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Sr Inspector job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,323 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Full-time

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Re-posted 25 days ago


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Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

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Job description

RK&K's Construction Engineering Inspection and Construction Management Division is hiring Senior Construction Inspectors in and around the Bristol, VA area. This role will primarily perform work in VDOT's Bristol District, adjacent Districts as well as localities inclusive of Bristol, Abingdon, Wise and Wytheville. As a Senior Construction Inspector with RK&K you will lead and strengthen our construction engineering and inspection business including highway, bridge, and design-build /design-build projects. Opportunities for growth and training into construction management and office engineering careers.

Essential Functions

  • Provide construction management support, including inspection and monitoring of construction of roadway and structures to ensure compliance with plans, specifications and safety regulations
  • Independently coordinate and directs all phases of construction inspection of projects, complicated by extensive traffic control, sensitive to the public or environmentally challenging, or require significant project coordination with property owners, utility companies, or local/federal government representatives
  • Ability to communicate effectively across different platforms with project management, clients, stakeholders, general public and contractors
  • Lead and monitor work products of a team of junior level inspectors and provide technical supervision
  • Lead and conduct project meeting with various project stakeholders
  • Interface with clients, state and federal agencies, and other engineering disciplines on construction projects
  • Fully engage in solving complex problems to provide technical evaluation and sound solutions
  • Monitor and document the activities of contractors. Communicate and document non-compliant work elements
  • Review lines, grades, dimensions, and elevations using standard survey and field engineering equipment
  • Review placement of various materials, tracks project materials testing frequencies and provides materials testing as required
  • Performs field measurements and tracks daily quantities of work items installed
  • Maintain comprehensive project records and reporting as required typically inclusive of daily reports, materials compliance tracking, pay quantity records, as-built plan records, EEO documents, change orders, and monthly payment vouchers.
  • Aid Construction Management staff with monitoring of project schedule, budget and development of change order and NOI analysis

Required Skills and Experience

  • Minimum seven (7) years of relevant experience in construction inspection, materials, standards, and specifications related to state highway projects and facilities
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to compute basic mathematic formulas including algebra and geometry
  • Functional use of computer software including Microsoft suite and other construction documentation software
  • Experience overseeing junior level staff work products to ensure project requirements are achieved
  • Capable of working independently on small construction projects
  • Acceptable driving record
  • High School Diploma or GED

Certifications Required

  • VDOT Required Material Certifications (or ability to obtain within 6 months)
    • VDOT Soil and Aggregate Compaction - NICET LEVEL II
    • VDOT Asphalt Field Level I & II
    • ACI Concrete Field Level I, or WACEL Concrete I, or NICET LEVEL II
    • VDOT Pavement Marking
    • VDOT Slurry Surfacing
    • VDOT Surface Treatment
    • VDOT Flagger Certification
    • VDOT GRIT (Guardrail Certification)
    • VA DEQ - Certification for Erosion and Sediment Control Inspection
    • VA DEQ - Stormwater Management (Inspector) Certification
    • Nuclear Gauge Safety Training
    • ATTSA Intermediate Work Zone Traffic Control
    • 10 Hour OSHA Safety Training - OSHA

Preferred Skills and Experience

  • Construction Inspection experience including roadway, asphalt, concrete, pavement markings, structure and bridge construction methods
  • VDOT and other local public agency experience desired
  • Experience with construction document management software including PlanGrid, AWP, and SharePoint
  • Associate or bachelor's in engineering or similar field of study
  • Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or Certified Construction Manager in Training (CMIT) certificate

Physical Demands:

This role requires the ability to perform field inspections on active construction sites. The employee must be able to stand and walk for extended periods, navigate uneven terrain, and climb ladders or stairs. Ability to lift and carry inspection equipment and materials weighing up to 20-30 pounds on an occasional basis, with or without reasonable accommodation. Work is performed outdoors in varying weather conditions and may include exposure to construction-related hazards.

Other Duties

This job description indicates the general nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities, and other essential functions (as covered under ADA). It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities and duties required by the employee. Other duties are assigned as required.

What We Offer

RK&K offers excellentpotentialforcareer advancementand professional growth. We also offer attractive compensation packages commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances
  • Matching 401(k) plan
  • Paid Holidays
  • Much, much more!

Why RK&K?

As a full-service engineering and construction management firm, RK&K gives you the opportunity to directly impact the communities in which we live and work. What sets RK&K apart is an award-winning culture that has fostered a spirit of collaboration and trust for over 100 years. To its clients, the firm delivers concepts, processes, and outcomes that are designed for success. RK&K has earned its reputation as a trusted partner, responsive employer, and community steward.

Design your career at RK&K, Apply Today!


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