CEI Inspectors

S&ME; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Plans

Wellness Program

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

401(k) Retirement Plan

Paid Holidays and PTO

Career Development Programs

Job summary

A construction engineering firm is looking for Construction Engineering and Inspection (CEI) Inspectors to support transportation projects across North Carolina. Responsibilities include overseeing contractor activities, ensuring project compliance, and preparing inspection reports. Ideal candidates will hold a high school diploma or GED, possess relevant work experience, and have NCDOT certifications. This role offers competitive pay, benefits, and opportunities for career growth.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Prior experience in highway construction or inspection is essential.
• Active NCDOT certifications preferred.
• Active NCDOT certifications such as QMS Roadway, Conventional Density, Concrete Field Technician, Erosion Control Level II, and/or Nuclear Gauge.
• Strong English communication skills (oral and written).
• Solid math skills with knowledge of weight, volume, pressure, and measurement units.

Responsibilities

• Oversee construction activities to ensure compliance with standards.
• Inspect erosion control measures and perform material quality testing.
• Prepare detailed daily inspection reports.
• Conduct calculations and maintain records of material quantities; ensure timelines are met.
• Attend progress and safety meetings; work with contractors, engineers, and stakeholders to resolve challenges.
• Perform DBE/EEO compliance surveys to verify workforce inclusivity.

Skills

High school diploma or GED

Experience in highway construction or inspection

Strong English communication skills

Solid math skills

Flexibility to work variable schedules

Education

Technical degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Surveying Technology

Civil/Surveying tech degree substitute

Tools

NCDOT certifications (e.g., QMS Roadway, Nuclear Gauge)

Job description

Requisition Number: 2026-2701-01

S&ME is looking for Construction Engineering and Inspection (CEI) Inspectors to support our Transportation group across North Carolina, including Asheville, Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh, Wilmington, and nearby regions. In this role, you'll help ensure that vital infrastructure projects—such as highways, bridges, greenways, airports, ports, and rail systems—are built to meet safety, quality, and regulatory benchmarks. Your knowledge and attention to detail will safeguard compliance and uphold excellence throughout the construction process.

Your Day-to-Day:

As a CEI Inspector, you'll play a critical role in overseeing contractor activities and ensuring successful project completion. In this mid-level or lead technician role, you may make key technical decisions, and work independently on medium‑size projects or as part of a team on larger projects.

• Oversee construction activities, such as earthmoving, paving, bridge construction, and traffic control, to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, and safety standards.
• Inspect erosion control measures and environmental compliance while performing material sampling and quality testing.
• Prepare detailed daily inspection reports, document contractor performance, and process payment records.
• Conduct calculations, maintain records of material quantities, and ensure project timelines are met.
• Attend progress and safety meetings, working closely with contractors, engineers, and stakeholders to resolve project challenges.
• Perform DBE/EEO compliance surveys to verify adherence to inclusivity and workforce standards.

CEI Inspectors may encounter a variety of challenging work environments, including exposure to outdoor conditions, highway traffic, uneven terrain, and construction hazards involving heavy machinery. This role may also require extended hours, including weekends and holidays. You must be capable of lifting and carrying 40‑50 lbs., maneuver field equipment safely, including loaded wheelbarrows, on uneven ground and around active construction sites.

Compensation is based on experience, with additional bonuses for holding relevant certifications.

What You Bring:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Prior experience in highway construction or inspection.
• A technical degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Surveying Technology may substitute for one year of experience.
• Active NCDOT certifications such as QMS Roadway, Conventional Density, Concrete Field Technician, Erosion Control Level II, and/or Nuclear Gauge.
• Strong English communication skills (oral and written).
• Solid math skills with knowledge of weight, volume, pressure, and measurement units.
• Flexibility to work variable schedules and willingness to travel as needed.

Working Conditions:

This is a physically demanding, outdoor role requiring the use of company‑issued PPE. Inspectors will work in all weather conditions, traverse uneven terrain, stand for extended periods (up to 12 hours), and lift/carry 40‑50 lbs. of materials and equipment. The position involves exposure to highway traffic, heavy machinery, and active construction sites, with potential for long hours, weekends, and holidays.

We Are S&ME:

At S&ME, we’re committed to your growth, professionally and personally. With over 50 years of experience delivering innovative solutions in geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction materials engineering, we’ve built a strong foundation for long‑term careers. Our team of 1,000+ employee‑owners across 10+ states works together to create meaningful impact for our clients and communities. When you join S&ME, you become part of a collaborative, honest, and people‑focused culture that invests in your success. We offer exciting project opportunities, ongoing training, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family. This is more than a job; it’s a place to grow, thrive, and build a future.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options—no medical premium increase in 2026.
• Wellness Program—$50 off per month on your 2027 premiums!
• Pet Insurance.
• Term Life & Long‑Term Care Coverage—available Spring 2026.
• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan.
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) with rollover options.
• Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave.
• Mentorship & Career Development Programs.
• Credential Incentive Program—get rewarded for advancing your skills.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Employee Recognition Program.
• Company Vehicle & Fuel Card—for project-based roles.
• $2,000 Employee Referral Bonuses—and more!

If you are seeking a challenging and rewarding career with a firm committed to our employees and providing quality service to our clients, join our team!

This full‑time role offers competitive pay based on experience. Candidates must comply with our Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements. Only candidates with valid employment eligibility (I‑9) will be considered. Visa assistance is not available. S&ME reserves the right to hire internally or externally at any time. No candidate/recruiter calls, personal calls, or walk‑ins are accepted.

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