CEI Inspectors

S&ME•Mt Airy, NC

3d•Onsite

About The Position

S&ME is hiring Construction Engineering and Inspection (CEI) Inspectors for its Transportation team at locations across North Carolina, including Asheville, Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh, Wilmington, and surrounding areas. Inspectors help ensure that construction activities meet safety, quality, and regulatory requirements and contribute to the delivery of roads, bridges, airports, and rail infrastructure. This is a mid-level or lead technician role. The inspector 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 role offers training, mentorship, career-development opportunities, and participation in S&ME’s employee-ownership program. The work is outdoor and hands-on in all weather conditions, with exposure to highway traffic, heavy machinery, and active construction sites. It requires walking over rough terrain, standing for extended periods, lifting and carrying materials and equipment, and flexibility to work variable schedules, potentially including long hours, weekends, and holidays. Company-provided personal protective equipment is used. Candidates must meet S&ME’s Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements and have valid employment eligibility; visa assistance is unavailable.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Prior experience in highway construction or inspection.
A technical degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Surveying Technology may substitute for one year of experience.
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.
Compliance with S&ME’s Fleet Management, Substance Policy, and Reference Check requirements.
Valid employment eligibility (I-9); visa assistance is not available.

Nice To Haves

Active NCDOT certifications such as QMS Roadway, Conventional Density, Concrete Field Technician, Erosion Control Level II, and/or Nuclear Gauge; relevant certifications may qualify for additional bonuses.

Responsibilities

Oversee earthmoving, paving, bridge construction, traffic control, and other construction activities for compliance with plans, specifications, and safety standards.
Inspect erosion-control measures and environmental compliance, and perform material sampling and quality testing.
Prepare 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.

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.
Professional training and mentorship.