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Subway Inspector Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Greater interconnection on the subway. Explore it today. Field Inspector NYC, New York About the role The Field Inspector is responsible for providing support and conducting inspections and audits on ...

Special Inspector Department : Security Authority : OA Division/Unit : Bus Fare Enforcement- EAGLE ... In addition, incumbents will be required to work in bus depots, train yards, subway tunnels and at ...

Special Inspector Department : Security Authority : OA Division/Unit : Bus Fare Enforcement- EAGLE ... In addition, incumbents will be required to work in bus depots, train yards, subway tunnels and at ...

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Geotechnical Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

... Subway. The company works with high-profile clients such as Con Edison, and Verizon. GES provides ... Perform special inspection of piles, support of excavation, underpinning, excavation and ...

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Geotechnical Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

... Subway. The company works with high-profile clients such as Con Edison, and Verizon. GES provides ... Perform special inspection of piles, support of excavation, underpinning, excavation and ...

Quality Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

The MTA's Second Avenue Subway project is a $7.7B expansion that will extend the Q Line from 96th ... This involves conducting inspections and tests on materials before they are used on-site.

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Subway Inspector information

What does a subway inspector do?

A Subway Inspector is responsible for inspecting subway tracks, tunnels, and facilities to ensure they meet safety and operational standards. They identify potential hazards, structural issues, or equipment malfunctions and report findings to maintenance teams for necessary repairs. Inspectors may also check signals, switches, and communication systems to ensure smooth subway operations. Their role is critical in preventing accidents and ensuring public transportation safety.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a subway inspector?

To excel as a Subway Inspector, you need strong knowledge of subway systems, safety regulations, mechanical or electrical inspection, and a background in engineering or a related technical field. Familiarity with inspection tools, diagnostic equipment, and reporting software, as well as certifications such as OSHA safety or relevant transit authority credentials, is highly valued. Excellent attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and within teams are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate identification of issues, effective collaboration, and maintenance of public safety and system reliability.

What are common challenges faced by subway inspectors on the job?

Subway Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in confined or hazardous environments, responding to unexpected equipment malfunctions, and meeting tight inspection schedules to minimize service disruptions. The role frequently involves being on-call for emergencies and adjusting to varying work hours, including nights and weekends. Effective communication with maintenance crews, train operators, and supervisors is essential, as inspectors must clearly document findings and recommend prompt corrective actions. While the job can be demanding, it offers a dynamic environment and the satisfaction of ensuring the safety and efficiency of public transportation systems.

What are the job positions at Subway Inspector?

A Subway Inspector typically holds a role focused on inspecting and ensuring compliance with safety, health, and sanitation standards in food service establishments. Positions may include inspector, senior inspector, or supervisor, often requiring knowledge of food safety regulations and certification in food safety practices. Advancement opportunities can lead to supervisory or managerial roles within inspection agencies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Subway Inspector jobs in New York?

The most popular types of Subway Inspector jobs in New York are:

What job categories do people searching Subway Inspector jobs in New York look for?

The top searched job categories for Subway Inspector jobs in New York are:

Infographic showing various Subway Inspector job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Car Inspector (Subway Car Mechanic) (Provisional)*

New York City Transit

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$46.82/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


New York City Transit Authority rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

518th of 854 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Car Inspector/Road Car Inspector (Subway Car Mechanic)


Last Date of Filing:              Until Filled
Authority:                             New York City Transit (TA)
Department:                        Subways            
Division/Unit:                       Car Equipment        
Reports to:                          Maintenance Supervisor (Car Equipment)
Work Location:                    Various           
Hours of Work:                    Various

*This is a civil service position.  Selected candidates must pass a civil service exam and be appointed from the resulting list to gain permanent status. 

**Incumbents who are currently employed in the title of Maintainer's Helper - Group B working in the Division of Car Equipment for at least one year are eligible to be promoted on a provisional basis.

Compensation:

The current minimum salary for Car Inspector is $38.80 per hour for a 40-hour work week increasing to $45.65 per hour in the sixth year of service. The current minimum salary for Road Car Inspector is $46.82 per hour for a 40-hour work week. These rates are subject to change. The benefits of this position include, but are not limited to, night and weekend salary differentials, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, a comprehensive medical plan and a pension plan.

Responsibilities:


Car Inspectors, under supervision, maintain, inspect, test, examine, lubricate, troubleshoot and make repairs and adjustments on any part of MTA New York City Transit’s multiple-unit subway cars and subway service cars in the car shops, terminals, yards and on the road, including subway car body, electrical, electronic, mechanical and pneumatic equipment, truck equipment, body and truck brake rigging, electrical and pneumatic brake equipment, subway car bodies and associated fixtures, air conditioning and heating equipment, and electrical and electronic control and motor equipment; maintain and repair subway car washers and shop equipment; operate and maintain lifting and carrying equipment associated with the placement and removal of subway cars and subway car parts; keep records and prepare reports; and perform related work.

Some of the physical activities performed by Car Inspectors and the environmental conditions they experience are: working outdoors in all weather conditions, crouching under subway cars in maintenance pits, reaching into dark spaces and making tactile inspections, making visual inspections of equipment, distinguishing colors, reading gauges and prints, climbing into and out of maintenance pits, using hand tools, hearing warnings (bell, whistle and vocal), and carrying heavy tools and equipment.

Road Car Inspectors, under supervision, detect trouble on any part of MTA New York City Transit’s multiple-unit subway cars and subway service cars on the road and in terminals, including subway car body and truck equipment, subway car body and truck brake rigging, electrical and pneumatic brake equipment, and electrical and electronic control and motor equipment; make necessary repairs to keep subway cars in service or enable them to be moved to sidings or terminals; operate a motor vehicle; keep records and prepare reports; and perform related work.

Some of the physical activities performed by Road Car Inspectors and the environmental conditions they experience are: working outdoors in all weather conditions, crouching under subway cars along trackways, reaching into dark spaces and making tactile inspections, making visual inspections of equipment, distinguishing colors, reading gauges and prints, using ladders to climb up to and descend from track ways, working on elevated structures, operating heavy machinery and equipment, using hand tools, hearing warnings (bell, whistle and vocal), communicating verbally with crew and passengers regarding train troubles experienced on the road, and carrying heavy tools and equipment.

Special Working Conditions: Car Inspectors and Road Car Inspectors may be required to work various shifts, including nights, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

How to Qualify:

Internal Candidates: This position is open to each employee of MTA New York City Transit that by the first date of the assessment, is permanently (not provisionally) employed in the title of Maintainer's Helper - Group B working in the Division of Car Equipment, and has been permanently employed in such title for not less than one year; and is not otherwise ineligible.

OR

External Candidates and MTA Employees who are not employed in the eligible title listed above: When you apply, you must meet the following requirements:

Some examples of acceptable experience include: aircraft/avionics technician, marine technician, power-plant technician, automotive/diesel mechanic/technician, commercial/industrial electrician, electronic systems technician, commercial/industrial HVAC technician, and elevator/escalator mechanic.

1. Three years of full-time satisfactory experience as a journey-level mechanic (i.e., a fully trained, knowledgeable, experienced, proficient and competent mechanic) working from drawings, performing either (a) the troubleshooting, repair and maintenance of large heavy duty electromechanical, electric or electronic equipment and/or machinery; or (b) the inspection, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of multiple-unit electrical railroad cars or diesel electric locomotives; or

2. Two years of full-time satisfactory experience at the journey level as described in paragraph “1.” above, plus completion of one of the following listed below before obtaining your journey-level experience:

A. Two years of full-time experience as a mechanic’s helper, apprentice or trainee performing or assisting in the work described above; or

B. Graduation from a recognized trade school or technical school with a major course of study in electromechanical, electrical or electronic technology, or a closely related field totaling at least 600 hours; or

C. Graduation from a vocational high school with a major course of study in electromechanical, electrical or electronic technology, or a closely related field; or

D. An associate degree in applied science, or a higher degree, from an accredited college or university in electromechanical, electrical or electronic technology or a closely related field.

If you have qualifying part-time experience, it will be credited on a pro-rated basis.

Some examples of unacceptable experience include: machinist; CNC machine operator; copy machine mechanic; assembler; basic electrical work, such as residential/commercial lighting and wiring; electronic bench technician; auto-body and fender mechanic; auto or truck assembly mechanic; dealership makeready mechanic; gas station attendant; salvage or junkyard mechanic; automotive specialty work, such as changing mufflers, windshield wipers, tires, oil, etc.; and repair of personal computers.

The vocational high school, technical school, or trade school must be approved by a State’s Department of Education or a recognized accrediting organization. The college or university must be accredited by regional, national, professional or specialized agencies recognized as accrediting bodies by the U.S. Secretary of Education, and by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

Selection Method / Admission Letter:

Candidates may be asked to complete an education and experience test paper and also participate in one or more of the following assessments: written, practical skills and/or structured interview.

All selected candidates will be subject to a full background investigation that includes employment and education.  Discrepancies may lead to dismissal.

Applicants must keep their contact information (email, mailing, phone) up to date. The contact information you entered in your online profile with the MTA will be used to contact you. You can update your address and other contact information.by logging into your MTA profile or by sending an email to examsunit@nyct.com. 

How To Apply:

If you meet the Qualification Requirements above, you can submit an online application by clicking on the "APPLY NOW" button from either the CAREERS page or from the JOB DESCRIPTION page. If you have previously applied online for other positions, enter your Username and Password. If it is your first registration, click on the CLICK HERE TO REGISTER hyperlink and enter a User Name and Password; then click on the REGISTER button.

Requirements to be


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