Lead Roadway Inspector

About the Role

The Lead Roadway Inspector supports the Resident Engineer on complex construction management projects by conducting engineering and inspection activities. The incumbent must read and interpret project plans and specifications, apply current Caltrans and industry standards, and monitor a variety of elements including traffic management, earthwork, drainage, utility relocation, storm‑water controls, roadway construction, pedestrian and bike facilities, structural components, lighting, and landscaping. In this position you will collect and analyze site data, perform inspections of moderate to high complexity, and provide technical assistance to ensure compliance with codes, permits, and design standards. You will act as a consultant on work progress, conduct initial, ongoing, and final inspections, verify calculations and change orders, monitor contractor performance, and prepare detailed reports with visual documentation. The role also includes attending pre‑construction meetings, calculating contractor payments, assisting with risk assessment, and mentoring entry‑level inspection staff. Ethical decision‑making and staying current with inspection practices are essential. • Collect and analyze site data, surveys, drawings, and samples for field inspections. • Perform inspections of moderate to high complexity, ensuring conformity with codes, standards, and permits. • Provide technical assistance and guidance on construction and infrastructure compliance. • Serve as consultant on work progress, resolve plan interpretation issues, and oversee inspection teams. • Conduct initial, ongoing, and final inspections, delivering written and oral feedback. • Verify load calculations, change orders, and contract specifications. • Monitor project phasing and contractor performance for quality control. • Lead or assist cross‑functional inspection tasks and mentor junior staff. • Attend pre‑construction meetings and address contractor inquiries. • Calculate contractor payments and prepare detailed technical reports with visuals. • Assist in risk identification, assessment, and mitigation for construction challenges. • Develop and coordinate inspection plans, staffing, and cost estimates. • Maintain current knowledge of inspection techniques and adhere to ethical standards.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸inspections
• ▸data analysis
• ▸technical assistance
• ▸reporting
• ▸risk assessment
• ▸mentoring

What You Bring

Candidates must hold at least a high school diploma and have nine or more years of relevant construction inspection experience, along with any required professional licensure or certification and a valid driver’s license. Advanced knowledge of inspection principles, construction codes, and Caltrans standards, as well as strong technical, communication, and self‑leadership skills, are required. Proficiency with technical writing, software tools, and data analysis, along with a proven safety record, is essential. Flexibility to work extended hours and occasional travel may be needed. Preferred qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, a Professional Engineering license, and experience inspecting structural construction projects. • Minimum high school diploma; 9+ years construction inspection experience. • Required professional licensure/certification and valid driver’s license. • Advanced knowledge of inspection principles, codes, and Caltrans standards. • Ability to perform technical calculations and interpret plans/specifications. • Strong interpersonal, communication, and self‑leadership skills. • Proficiency in technical writing, software, spreadsheets, and data analysis. • Critical thinking and problem‑solving abilities for inspection results. • Capability to direct subcontractors and junior staff safely and accurately. • Proven safety record and compliance with WSP health and conduct policies. • Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred. • Professional Engineering (PE) license preferred. • Experience inspecting structural construction preferred.

Requirements

• ▸9+ years
• ▸pe license
• ▸caltrans
• ▸data analysis
• ▸safety record
• ▸bachelor’s

Benefits

WSP offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, retirement savings, and generous paid leave policies. The expected hourly rate ranges from $58.46 to $91.27, with compensation adjusted for experience, skills, and geographic location. Additional benefits and compensation may be provided based on business needs and applicable laws. • Flexibility to work extended hours and occasional travel.

Work Environment

Field