1

Transportation Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Elevator Inspector A professional, experienced vertical transportation inspector to provide detailed code compliance safety inspections and oversight of required testing for vertical transportation ...

Elevator Inspector

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $120K/yr

Elevator Inspector A professional, experienced vertical transportation inspector to provide detailed code compliance safety inspections and oversight of required testing for vertical transportation ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Transportation Inspector information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do transportation inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for transportation inspector in Virginia is $19.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Transportation Inspector Do?

A transportation inspector handles responsibilities related to reviewing various vehicles and modes of transportation and ensuring that all regulations meet the company standards and legal regulations. In this career, you may inspect a subway train, a bus, an airplane, or any other vehicle that may transport passengers. Your duties include assessing equipment for safety issues, investigating accidents and complaints, filing reports, evaluating schedules, recommending appropriate repairs and maintenance, and approving a vehicle for use. A transportation inspector can work for the government reviewing public transportation or for a private company.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Transportation inspectors who specialize in areas such as freight, safety compliance, or infrastructure tend to earn higher salaries, especially those with advanced certifications or extensive experience. Inspectors working in roles with greater responsibility, such as senior or lead inspectors, or those overseeing large projects, generally have higher earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Transportation Inspector, you need a solid understanding of transportation regulations, safety standards, and inspection procedures, often supported by a relevant associate’s degree or specialized training. Familiarity with inspection tools, compliance software, and reporting systems is typically required, and certifications such as the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) or Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) credentials may be necessary depending on the sector. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills set outstanding inspectors apart. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure public safety, regulatory compliance, and the efficient operation of transportation systems.

How do you become a transportation inspector?

To become a transportation inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience in transportation, safety, or inspection roles. Many positions require passing written exams, background checks, and obtaining certifications such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) or state-specific licenses. On-the-job training and familiarity with safety regulations and inspection tools are also important for success in this role.

How much do transportation inspectors make?

Transportation inspectors typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work in environments requiring attention to safety standards and may need certifications such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) credentials.

How does a Transportation Inspector typically collaborate with other departments to ensure safety and regulatory compliance?

Transportation Inspectors frequently work alongside operations teams, maintenance staff, and regulatory agencies to ensure that vehicles, equipment, and procedures meet established safety standards. They often coordinate inspections, share findings, and recommend corrective actions, fostering a culture of compliance and continuous improvement. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as inspectors may need to educate staff on regulations or assist in developing updated safety protocols. This collaborative approach helps address issues proactively and supports organizational goals for safety and efficiency.

What qualifications do I need to be a quality inspector?

To be a transportation inspector, relevant qualifications typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, knowledge of safety standards and regulations, and experience with inspection tools and procedures. Certifications such as the Certified Transportation Inspector (CTI) or related safety certifications can enhance job prospects. Strong attention to detail and good communication skills are also important for this role.

What is the difference between Transportation Inspector vs Railroad Inspector?

AspectTransportation InspectorRailroad Inspector
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications vary by industryHigh school diploma; often requires certifications related to rail safety
Work EnvironmentInspecting various transportation modes like buses, trucks, and transit systemsInspecting railroad tracks, equipment, and safety protocols
Employer & Industry UsagePublic transit agencies, transportation companiesRailroads, freight companies, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for safety and compliance roles in transportationSpecialized focus on rail safety and infrastructure

Transportation Inspectors and Railroad Inspectors both ensure safety and compliance within the transportation industry. While Transportation Inspectors oversee various modes of transit, Railroad Inspectors focus specifically on rail safety and infrastructure. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but their industry focus and specific responsibilities differ.

What are Transportation Inspectors?

Transportation Inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that vehicles, equipment, and operations within the transportation industry comply with safety regulations, laws, and standards. They may inspect trains, trucks, buses, ships, or aircraft, looking for mechanical problems, safety hazards, or regulatory violations. Their work helps to prevent accidents and maintain public safety by enforcing rules related to operation, maintenance, and documentation. Transportation Inspectors often work for government agencies or private companies and may specialize in a specific mode of transport.
What are the most commonly searched types of Transportation Inspector jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Transportation Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Transportation Inspector jobs in Virginia? For Transportation Inspector jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Transportation Inspector jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Transportation Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Transportation Inspector jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Transportation Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Transportation Inspector jobs in VA? For Transportation Inspector jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Senior Transportation Inspector (Full-Time)

Senior Transportation Inspector (Full-Time)

MBP

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Overview
EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATION:
Do you bring VDOT or other DOT inspection experience and a strong understanding of roadway and bridge construction methods?
MBP is looking for a Senior Transportation Inspector to support transportation projects by providing on-site compliance inspection, quality assurance, and progress monitoring, with a focus on VDOT or other DOT work.
Responsibilities
What You'll Do:
Serve as a key on-site contact to coordinate with clients, contractors, adjacent property owners, and project stakeholders while representing MBP. Provide guidance to contractors regarding conformance with plans, specifications, and codes. Oversee quality assurance and progress monitoring for assigned operations and recommend corrective actions within project scope. Exercise sound judgment in field conditions and support MBP objectives through professional communication and coordination. Offer mentorship to less experienced inspectors and contribute to a safe and compliant work environment. Responsibilities include:
  • Provide on-site compliance inspection, quality assurance, and progress monitoring for conformance to plans, contracts, specifications, and applicable codes; advise contractors of discrepancies and facilitate corrective actions
  • Maintain project records including daily diaries, materials notebook, permit compliance, and civil rights compliance; perform algebraic, geometric, and trigonometric calculations and prepare associated sketches in daily diaries
  • Check materials and review material documents to verify testing and coordinate additional samples to clients or testing laboratories for verification
  • Review payment applications, provide final inspections, and create and track punchlists
  • Communicate professionally with the client, contractor, traveling public, adjacent property owners, other project stakeholders, and MBP team members
  • Provide oversight of less experienced construction inspectors and assist with training
  • Verify that highway work zones and traffic control conform to current standards
  • Perform work of basic to moderate difficulty including materials testing and basic surveying
  • Complete administrative tasks including a daily timesheet, monthly expense report, and monthly mileage report
  • Work on project sites, including standing and sitting as needed, climbing ladders, working at heights, working outdoors in a wide range of weather conditions, and safely navigating uneven terrain

Who We Are Looking For
Experience:
  • Construction work experience with advanced understanding of construction means and methods for transportation projects
  • VDOT or other DOT experience inspecting projects including roadway widening, intersection improvements, signalization, bridges, roadway maintenance, streetscape, utilities, and similar work activities
  • Construction-related training and/or experience or coursework in road/bridge construction, civil engineering, materials, and tools utilized in transportation projects

Qualifications
Education/Knowledge:
  • High school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED)
  • Basic mathematics including algebraic, geometric, and trigonometric computations based on field measurements
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, Email, Internet navigation, project management information systems, and web-based tools

Preferred Certifications:
  • OSHA 10-hour or OSHA 30-hour certification required or obtainable within 3 months of hire
  • Certification(s) from VDOT such as Intermediate Work Zone Protection, Asphalt Field Level I and II, Soils and Aggregate, Pavement Marking, Nuclear Gauge Safety, Guard Rail Inspector Training, ACI Concrete, and DEQ Erosion and Sediment Control and Stormwater Management (required)
  • Other relevant certifications including WACEL, ICC, NICET, or MARTCP

Skills and Abilities:
  • Professional and effective communication with clients, contractors, stakeholders, and team members
  • Mentorship and training support for less experienced inspectors
  • Attention to detail in documentation, calculations, and compliance verification
  • Safe field practices including working at heights, outdoors in various weather, and navigating uneven terrain

Guidance/Responsibility:
  • Works independently in the field with responsibility for coordinating quality assurance and compliance verification for assigned operations
  • Represents MBP in client and stakeholder interactions while facilitating solutions consistent with project requirements
  • Provides oversight in the field and offers recommendations to address nonconformance within project scope

Supervisory:
  • May provide oversight of less experienced construction inspectors and assist with training

What We Offer:
We're focused on providing the tools and support you need to succeed, both personally and professionally. MBP offers a comprehensive benefits package including 100% employer-paid medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance (for individual employees), a 401(k) profit-sharing plan, a health savings account with company contributions, competitive compensation with opportunities for semi-annual bonuses, and generous paid time off. We also provide unique perks like tuition assistance, student loan repayment, annual gym reimbursement, pet insurance, and paid volunteer time. Additional benefits include mental health resources, company-wide wellness activities, and training and development to support your professional growth. MBP also covers the costs associated with obtaining and maintaining certifications and licenses, such as OSHA 10-hour or OSHA 30-hour, VDOT Intermediate Work Zone Protection, Asphalt Field Level I and II, Soils and Aggregate, Pavement Marking, Nuclear Gauge Safety, Guard Rail Inspector Training, ACI Concrete, DEQ Erosion and Sediment Control and Stormwater Management, WACEL, ICC, NICET, and MARTCP.
Status: Full-time
The base hourly rate for this position is $34.00 to $41.00. Actual compensation will be determined based on work location, qualifications, experience, job-related skills, and relevant education or training.
Requirements:
  • Valid driver's license with a good driving record
  • Fingerprint-based criminal background check, DMV driving record check, reference verification, and work history check
  • Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship

MBP is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any legally protected status or characteristic; protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply