Senior Construction Inspector

Terracon Consultants, Inc.; Sacramento (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Terracon Consultants, Inc. is seeking a Senior Construction Inspector for a large transportation infrastructure project spanning from the Los Angeles area to the Nevada state line.

The role is primarily field-based, focusing on monitoring construction activities for compliance with plans, specifications, and industry standards. The Senior Inspector will oversee multiple disciplines including rail systems, ballast, signals, traction power, and related infrastructure.

Qualifications

• Minimum 4–6 years of construction inspection experience.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's degree preferred.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable history may be required.
• Must be able to travel as needed for project locations.
• Experience with rail transportation projects strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Performs testing, observation and inspection per contract specifications and procedures.
• Read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Provides clear documentation of findings and results.
• Prepare inspection reports and document nonconformance.
• Performs basic analysis of data before submission to the Project Manager.
• Communicates information to the Project Manager and team.
• May interact with client and site personnel to resolve findings.
• May assist Project Manager in developing scope for testing and inspection services.
• Coordinate pre-dispatch activities with Project/Office Managers.
• Maintains equipment operation and calibration.
• Lead and coordinate activities of lower level inspectors.
• Performs advanced fieldwork and assists with project management.
• Adhere to safety rules and maintain quality standards on all projects.

Skills

Field inspections

Communication skills

Travel readiness

Leadership / supervision

Rail project experience

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associates degree in Civil/Construction Engineering Technology

Tools

ICC Reinforced Concrete

ICC Structural Steel - Bolting

ICC Structural Steel - Welding

ICC Master of Special Inspection

AWS CWI

ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician

ACI Concrete Strength Testing Technician

Job description

General Responsibilities

Terracon is seeking a Senior Construction Inspector to support a large transportation infrastructure project extending from the Los Angeles metropolitan area to the Nevada state line. This position is primarily field-based and is responsible for monitoring construction activities to verify compliance with project requirements, applicable specifications, approved plans, and industry standards.

The Senior Inspector will perform daily inspections across a variety of construction disciplines, including structural steel, concrete, masonry, rail systems, ballast, signals, traction power, and related infrastructure. Responsibilities include conducting visual inspections, observing field testing activities, verifying material and workmanship quality, and documenting construction progress and compliance.

The successful candidate will prepare detailed daily inspection reports, maintain accurate project records, and communicate observations, concerns, and findings to the engineering and project management teams. The Senior Inspector will also work collaboratively with project stakeholders to provide technical insight and recommendations regarding field issues while supporting overall project quality objectives.

Candidates should possess relevant inspection certifications, demonstrated experience inspecting heavy civil or transportation construction projects, strong written and verbal communication skills, and a commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards throughout all project activities.

Experience with rail transportation projects, including track, signals, traction power, structures, or major civil infrastructure, is strongly preferred.

Essential Roles and Responsibilities

• Performs testing, observation, and inspection as directed in accordance with training and the specified procedures to determine if work is done according to contract specifications.
• Read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
• Provides clear documentation of findings and results.
• Prepare inspection reports and document nonconformance.
• Performs basic analysis of data to verify accuracy before communication and submittal to the Project Manager.
• Communicates information to Project Manager and other personnel as directed by the Project Manager.
• May interact with client and other site personnel to provide input on appropriate resolution of findings.
• May assist Project Manager in development of scope for testing and inspection services
• Coordinate pre-dispatch activities with Project, Department, and/or Office Managers.
• Maintains equipment operation and calibration.
• Lead, provide direction and may coordinate activities of lower level inspectors.
• Performs advanced fieldwork and assists with project management.
• Follow safety rules and practices and other safety requirements for all projects. Performs pre-task planning prior to executing work. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
• Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Associates degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Construction Engineering Technology preferred.
• Minimum 4-6 years' experience in construction inspection.
• A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.
• Successful completion of related internal safety certifications.
• The ability to travel.
• Experience with rail transportation projects, including track, signals, traction power, structures, or major civil infrastructure, is strongly preferred.

At least four or more certifications in the following areas:

• ICC certification (Reinforced Concrete, Structural Steel - Bolting, Structural Steel - Welding).
• ICC Master of Special Inspection
• American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
• Other national, regional, state, and local Materials related certifications requiring experience and written examination will also be considered if deemed appropriate by the Terracon Department Manager.
• ACI certification* in one or more of the following areas:
  • Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I
  • Concrete Strength Testing Technician