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Truck Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mercer Transportation

Truck Inspector

Louisville, KY · On-site

$20/hr

We're seeking a Truck Inspector (Quality Assurance Technician) to help ensure the commercial vehicles and trailers operated by Mercer's owner-operators are safe and compliant with Department of ...

Mercer Transportation

Truck Inspector

Louisville, KY · On-site

$20/hr

We're seeking a Truck Inspector (Quality Assurance Technician) to help ensure the commercial vehicles and trailers operated by Mercer's owner-operators are safe and compliant with Department of ...

M&K Truck Centers

New Truck Prep Technician

Scranton, PA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Inspect vehicles to ensure all systems, components, accessories, and installed equipment meet OEM and dealership standards. * Complete inspection forms, documentation, and delivery checklists ...

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Truck Inspector information

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How much do truck inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for truck inspector in the United States is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a truck inspector?

Truck inspectors are professionals responsible for examining commercial trucks to ensure they comply with safety regulations and standards. They check various aspects of the vehicle, such as brakes, lights, tires, cargo securement, and emissions systems to identify any mechanical issues or violations. Their inspections help prevent accidents, reduce environmental impacts, and keep roads safer by ensuring only safe and well-maintained trucks are on the road. Truck inspectors may work for government agencies, transportation departments, or private companies.

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

To excel as a Truck Inspector, you need thorough knowledge of vehicle mechanics, safety regulations, and inspection protocols, often supported by relevant certifications or technical training. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, inspection checklists, and regulatory compliance systems such as DOT regulations is essential. Attention to detail, integrity, and strong communication skills help in accurately identifying issues and explaining findings to drivers or fleet managers. These skills ensure road safety, regulatory compliance, and the reliability of commercial transportation.

What are some common challenges faced by truck inspectors during daily inspections, and how can they be managed effectively?

Truck Inspectors often face challenges such as time constraints, adverse weather conditions, and varying compliance levels among drivers. Managing these challenges involves staying up-to-date with the latest safety regulations, maintaining clear communication with drivers and fleet managers, and using checklists to ensure thorough and consistent inspections. Building strong attention to detail and adaptability helps inspectors identify issues quickly while maintaining safety and compliance standards. Collaboration with other inspectors and mechanics also plays a key role in resolving complex or recurring vehicle issues.

What is the difference between Truck Inspector vs Vehicle Inspector?

AspectTruck InspectorVehicle Inspector
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Vehicle Inspection CertificationState Vehicle Inspection Certification, Emissions Testing Certification
Work EnvironmentRoadside, inspection stations, trucking companiesInspection stations, DMV offices, roadside
Industry UsageTransportation, logistics, freightAutomotive, transportation, regulatory agencies
Common Search IntentTruck safety, commercial vehicle compliancePassenger vehicle safety, emissions compliance

Truck Inspectors focus on commercial trucks, ensuring they meet safety and regulatory standards for freight transport. Vehicle Inspectors typically evaluate passenger cars and smaller vehicles for safety and emissions compliance. While both roles involve vehicle safety checks, Truck Inspectors specialize in commercial vehicles used in transportation industries.

How do you become a truck inspector?

To become a truck inspector, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete specialized training or certification in vehicle inspection, which may be offered through state agencies or technical schools. Some positions require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and knowledge of safety regulations, inspection procedures, and vehicle systems.

How to become a certified truck inspector?

To become a certified truck inspector, you must complete a state-approved training program and pass a certification exam, which covers vehicle safety, inspection procedures, and regulations. Certification is often issued by the state's department of transportation or motor vehicle agency and may require ongoing education to maintain. Having a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) and experience with vehicle maintenance can also be beneficial.
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What states have the most Truck Inspector jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Truck Inspector jobs?

For Truck Inspector jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Truck Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Truck Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $56,905 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Truck Inspector

Louisville, KY • On-site

Mercer Transportation
See more jobs at Mercer Transportationexternal

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Mercer Transportation rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Headquartered in Louisville, KY, Mercer Transportation is consistently ranked among the top carriers in the U.S. For over 40 years, we've built our reputation as one of the nation's leading owner-operator companies by fostering a family-oriented culture rooted in honesty, professional freedom, and respect.
We're seeking a Truck Inspector (Quality Assurance Technician) to help ensure the commercial vehicles and trailers operated by Mercer's owner-operators are safe and compliant with Department of Transportation requirements. This hands-on role combines vehicle inspections, equipment installation, driver support, and compliance documentation.
As a Truck Inspector, you'll conduct thorough safety inspections, identify needed repairs, install electronic equipment, and guide new contractors through Mercer's inspection requirements. Success in this position requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, sound judgment, and the ability to communicate effectively with drivers and internal teams.
This position is onsite Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
What's In It for You
  • Competitive Pay - Based on experience and qualifications
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage - Mercer contributes over $7,500 per year toward your health insurance
  • Free Healthcare Clinic - Available at no cost to eligible employees, spouses, and dependent children
  • Wellness Incentives - Qualify for our Wellness Rate and pay as little as $0 per month for employee-only coverage
  • Earn Extra Rewards - Receive up to $300 per year in gift cards through wellness initiatives
  • Generous Time Off - Paid Time Off plus company-paid holidays
  • Company-Paid Protection - Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability included at no cost
  • Optional Benefits - Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts, and Short-Term Disability
  • Secure Your Future - 401(k) with company match
  • Hands-On Training - Develop your knowledge of commercial vehicles, DOT regulations, inspection procedures, and safety systems

What You'll Do
  • Perform safety inspections on new and used commercial motor vehicles and trailers in accordance with federal regulations, state law, and Mercer requirements
  • Ensure trucks and trailers operated by Mercer contractors are safe and DOT compliant
  • Maintain responsibility for the quality, accuracy, and thoroughness of each inspection
  • Install Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and dash cameras in commercial motor vehicles
  • Maintain inventory of ELDs and dash cameras and prepare equipment for installation
  • Enter inspection information and maintain accurate inspection and maintenance records
  • Conduct truck inspection orientations for new contractors, agents, and employees
  • Notify contractors of inspection results and available repair options when deficiencies are identified
  • Receive and audit copies of roadside DOT inspections, complete required documentation, and distribute records to the appropriate state agency and internal department
  • Support drivers throughout the orientation process and for the duration of their relationship with Mercer
  • Coordinate with recruiters, contractors, and internal departments to maintain complete and accurate driver files
  • Stay current on DOT safety regulations, truck maintenance practices, systems, and procedures
  • Identify opportunities to improve inspection processes and implement practical solutions

Who You Are
  • Detail-oriented and committed to completing accurate, thorough inspections
  • Mechanically inclined with a general understanding of cars, trucks, or commercial equipment
  • Organized and able to manage multiple drivers, inspections, projects, and records at once
  • Able to follow established procedures and maintain consistent follow-through
  • Comfortable making independent decisions and using sound judgment to address maintenance and compliance concerns
  • Strong communicator who can clearly explain inspection results and requirements in person, by phone, and in writing
  • Responsive to driver needs while maintaining safety and compliance standards
  • Comfortable working in varied weather conditions, including heat, cold, and wind
  • Willing to learn commercial vehicle components, DOT regulations, and industry practices
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required
  • Valid driver's license required
  • Mechanical knowledge of diesel-powered commercial vehicles is a plus
  • Previous inspection experience-including automotive, home, structural, mechanical, or electrical inspections-is a plus

Why Mercer
At Mercer, safety and compliance are essential to our long-term success. You'll be part of a collaborative team that supports the independent contractors who keep freight moving across the country. We value attention to detail, practical problem-solving, continuous learning, and employees who take ownership of doing the job correctly.
Screening Requirements: May include a Motor Vehicle Record check, Drug Screen, and Criminal Background Check.
Equal Employment Opportunity
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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