CEI Inspectors

S&ME, Inc.•Charlotte, NC

13d•Onsite

About The Position

S&ME is seeking Construction Engineering and Inspection (CEI) Inspectors for its Transportation team across North Carolina, including Asheville, Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh, Wilmington, and surrounding areas. Inspectors oversee construction activities to ensure compliance with safety, quality, regulatory, plan, and specification requirements. The role is described as a mid-level or lead technician position in which the employee may make key technical decisions and work independently on medium-sized projects or as part of a team on larger projects. Compensation is based on experience, with additional bonuses for relevant certifications. The position involves outdoor, hands-on work in all weather conditions at active construction sites. Employees use company-provided personal protective equipment and may be exposed to highway traffic and heavy machinery. The work includes walking over rough terrain, standing for up to 12 hours, and lifting and carrying 40–50 pounds of materials and equipment. Variable schedules, travel as needed, long hours, weekends, and holidays may be involved. S&ME describes itself as a 100% employee-owned company with more than 50 years of experience. It offers career growth opportunities, training, mentorship, and employee-ownership benefits. Candidates must comply with Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements and have valid employment eligibility. Visa assistance is not available.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Prior experience in highway construction or inspection.
Strong oral and written English communication skills.
Solid math skills, including knowledge of weight, volume, pressure, and measurement units.
Flexibility to work variable schedules and willingness to travel as needed.
Valid employment eligibility (I-9).
Compliance with the company's Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements.

Nice To Haves

A technical degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Surveying Technology may substitute for one year of experience.
Active NCDOT certifications such as QMS Roadway, Conventional Density, Concrete Field Technician, Erosion Control Level II, and/or Nuclear Gauge.

Responsibilities

Oversee earthmoving, paving, bridge construction, traffic control, and other construction activities to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, and safety standards.
Inspect erosion control measures and environmental compliance, and perform material sampling and quality testing.
Prepare detailed daily inspection reports, document contractor performance, and process payment records.
Conduct calculations and maintain records of material quantities to help ensure project timelines are met.
Attend progress and safety meetings and work with contractors, engineers, and stakeholders to resolve project challenges.
Perform DBE/EEO compliance surveys to verify adherence to inclusivity and workforce standards.
Safely handle field tools and maneuver equipment on active construction sites.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision plans with HSA and FSA options.
Pet insurance.
100% employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), with a minimum 5% company contribution and automatic enrollment.
401(k) retirement plan.
Paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), with rollover options.
Paid maternity and parental leave.
Mentorship and career development programs.
Credential incentive program.
Tuition reimbursement.
Employee recognition program.
Company vehicle and fuel card for project-based roles.
$2,000 employee referral bonuses.