Special Inspector

UES, Inc.; Flagstaff (AZ); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is looking for a Special Inspector in Flagstaff, AZ. The role involves performing inspections and material testing on construction projects, ensuring compliance with building codes and standards. Candidates should have a high school diploma and basic inspection skills, with some experience preferred. The position demands strong mathematical skills and outdoor work in various conditions. This full-time role offers opportunities for technical training and certification.

Qualifications

• 0–2 years of experience in materials testing or inspections.
• Ability to read and interpret basic blueprints and technical documents.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic field tests on construction materials.
• Document observations in inspection reports.
• Communicate job status to supervisors.

Skills

Basic computer skills

Mathematical skills

Problem-solving skills

Time-management skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Welding certificate or vocational training

Job description

Overview

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

The Special Inspector is responsible for performing basic routine inspections and material testing on construction projects to ensure compliance with building codes, specifications, and standards. This role operates under direct supervision and focuses on developing technical inspection skills and industry knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic field and laboratory tests on construction materials (e.g., concrete, soil, steel) following prescribed methods.
• Document observations and findings accurately in inspection reports.
• Communicate job status and results to dispatch, field supervisors, or project engineers.
• Adhere to company and client safety protocols at all times.
• Operate and maintain assigned motor vehicles, ensuring routine maintenance.
• Assist senior inspectors with more complex inspections as needed.
• Pursue certifications and technical training to advance inspection skills.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; welding certificate program or vocational training preferred.
• 0–2 years of experience in materials testing or inspections.
• Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with reporting tools.
• Strong mathematical, problem‑solving, and time‑management skills.
• Ability to read and interpret basic blueprints and technical documents.
• Certification in inspection‑related fields (ACI, ICC, etc.) preferred but not required at hire.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• This position primarily works in an outdoor work environment, regularly exposed to varying field conditions, including:
  • Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, fields, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man‑made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris.
  • Moderate to loud noise levels, common in active construction and industrial environments.
  • Exposure to environmental elements including dirt, dust, sun, heat, humidity, and adverse weather conditions.
• The physical requirements for this position may include and are not limited to:
  • Ability to lift and/or carry 35 to 75 lbs. up to 75 feet, involving regular repetitive motion.
  • Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate equipment for extended periods.
  • Frequent use of hands and arms for typing, handling tools, and operating equipment.
  • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as required for fieldwork and inspections.
  • Ability to speak and hear effectively to communicate in noisy environments and with project teams.
  • Ability to use your senses to see (including close, distant, and peripheral vision, depth vision, and ability to focus), smell, hear, touch (use hands to reach climb or balance, crouch, stoop, crawl, kneel and sit).

Travel Requirements

This position requires moderate travel, approximately up to 40% of the time, in support of business objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on‑site work.

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here.