Senior Construction Inspector - CWI

Terracon; Las Cruces (NM); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Terracon is seeking experienced construction inspectors to join our West Texas region teams. The role focuses on performing inspections, testing, and reporting to ensure compliance with contract specifications, drawings, and project requirements.

Qualified candidates will have a high school diploma or equivalent and several certifications in materials testing, geotechnical, and structural specialties. Local travel, strong communication, and adherence to safety standards are essential.

Qualifications

• Completion of related internal safety certifications.
• At least four certifications in NICET, ICC, AWS, or ASNT categories as listed.

Responsibilities

• Perform testing, observation, and inspection per procedures and contract specs.
• Read construction drawings and specifications.
• Document findings clearly and prepare inspection reports.
• Coordinate with Project Manager and other personnel on findings and resolutions.
• Maintain equipment calibration and participate in project planning.
• Lead and coordinate activities of lower-level inspectors.
• Adhere to safety rules and ensure quality standards on all projects.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Construction Engineering Technology preferred

Tools

NICET Level III (Construction Materials Testing)

NICET Level III (Geotechnical)

ICC certification (Reinforced Concrete, Fireproofing, Masonry, Prestressed/ Post‑Tensioned Concrete, Structural Steel – Bolting/Welding)

ICC Master of Special Inspection

AWS CWI

ASNT Level III (VT, MT, PT, RT, UT)

Job description

General Responsibilities

This position can sit in any of our West Texas region offices. Construction inspectors spend the majority of their time working on projects, performing construction‑related inspections that require specific certifications and/or experience. They conduct daily inspections, monitoring quality and adherence to building code requirements, construction drawings, and project specifications. Inspections may involve multiple disciplines or focus on a specific area of expertise, such as structural steel, concrete, masonry, or fireproofing. Inspectors may perform visual/physical inspections and field testing to verify conformance with the plans and specifications. They prepare inspection reports, provide written documentation of observations and testing of materials, and communicate findings to engineers or project managers. When requested, they collaborate with the project team on solutions to potential issues and adhere to strict safety standards.

Essential Roles and Responsibilities

• Perform 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.
• Provide clear documentation of findings and results.
• Prepare inspection reports and document nonconformance.
• Perform basic analysis of data to verify accuracy before communication and submittal to the Project Manager.
• Communicate 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.
• Maintain equipment operation and calibration.
• Lead, provide direction, and may coordinate activities of lower‑level inspectors.
• Perform advanced fieldwork and assist with project management.
• Follow safety rules and practices and other safety requirements for all projects. Perform 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.
• Associate’s 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.

Required Qualifications

• Successful completion of related internal safety certifications.
• At least four or more certifications in the following areas:
• NICET Level III certification in Construction Materials Testing (Asphalt, Concrete, Soils).
• NICET Level III certification in Geotechnical (Construction, Laboratory, Exploration, Generalist).
• ICC certification (Reinforced Concrete, Spray‑applied Fireproofing, Structural Masonry, Prestressed/Post‑Tensioned Concrete, Structural Steel – Bolting, Structural Steel – Welding).
• ICC Master of Special Inspection.
• American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI).
• American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level III certification (Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Dye Penetrant Testing (PT), Radiographic Testing (RT), Ultrasonic Testing (UT)).
• 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.