Senior Transportation Construction Inspector

HDR; South Carolina; On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading infrastructure firm is seeking a Senior Transportation Construction Inspector in Charleston, South Carolina. This role ensures that various infrastructure projects, such as highways and bridges, meet quality and safety standards. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of construction inspection experience and a strong grasp of materials and methods used in the industry. The position requires flexibility in working hours and a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of professional construction inspection experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of materials, methods, and equipment used in highway and bridge construction.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends.

Responsibilities

• Inspect asphalt and concrete for acceptable materials and quality.
• Document construction work, take field measurements, and prepare reports.
• Work with project teams to resolve inspection findings.

Skills

Construction inspection

Mathematical functions

Report writing

Team collaboration

Flexibility

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)

Job description

Senior Transportation Construction Inspector

Join HDR’s Field Services team as a Senior Transportation Construction Inspector. You will play a critical role in ensuring that infrastructure projects—highways, bridges, water treatment plants, transit systems, and power facilities—are built to the highest quality, safety, and integrity standards.

Responsibilities

• Inspect asphalt and concrete for acceptable materials, mix, and pavement quality, including proper spreading, rolling, depth, alignment, and compaction.
• Inspect roadway and structural elements to ensure conformance to plans, specifications, and regulatory requirements.
• Inspect structural materials and members, placement of culverts, foundation excavation, piling, reinforcing and structural steel, concrete, and backfill.
• Ensure traffic control and erosion control devices are installed correctly.
• Perform complex calculations and computations as required.
• Document construction work, take field measurements, and prepare or review reports and contract documentation.
• Work with project teams to resolve inspection findings and coordinate corrective actions.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in construction inspection for transportation projects.
• Comprehensive knowledge of materials, methods, and equipment used in highway and bridge construction.
• Strong grasp of mathematical functions, including geometry and trigonometry.
• Proficiency with electronic office equipment such as calculators and computers.
• Ability to read, interpret, and explain construction plans, contract provisions, and specifications.
• Strong note‑taking and report‑writing skills, with the ability to instruct other employees in proper work methods.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends as required by client needs.
• Travel to meetings, site visits, and inspections as necessary.
• Valid driver’s license and compliance with state laws.
• Local candidates are preferred, and SCDOT or other DOT certifications are highly desirable.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (or 8 years of relevant inspection experience in lieu of a diploma).
• A minimum of 5 years of professional construction inspection experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Strong written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Successful completion of a drug‑screening procedure and ongoing compliance with random and cause testing.
• Commitment to participating in HDR’s employee‑owned culture and diversity values.

Additional Information

• Night and/or weekend work may be required as dictated by client project needs.
• Primary location: Charleston, South Carolina.
• Other locations: Beaufort, Columbia, Greenville (all in South Carolina).

Commitments and Culture

HDR is committed to creating an inclusive environment where every employee is welcomed, valued, respected, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. Our employee‑owned model supports collaboration across the globe and fosters a sense of belonging through active Employee Network Groups.

EEO Statement

At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity. We are an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.