Construction Observer

Cobb, Fendley & Associates, Inc.Houston, TX
Onsite

About The Position

CobbFendley is seeking an experienced Construction Observer in our Houston, Texas Office. Since 1980, CobbFendley has been committed to providing innovative engineering and surveying solutions with the goal of bettering communities. Our multi-discipline approach allows for the efficient completion of projects through experienced staff who focus on client communication. We are always seeking talented and qualified professionals to enhance our ability to provide clients with exceptional service.

Requirements

  • 5 years of experience as a Construction Observer (roadway, bridge, pavement, water, sewer).
  • Experience inspecting cast-in-place concrete structures.
  • Public works experience required.
  • Strong work ethic and able to work independently on the job site.
  • Able to travel to remote locations for extended periods.
  • Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
  • Identify complex problems and review related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Understand the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
  • Motivation to work in a dynamic environment with strict deadlines.
  • Desire to collaborate with professionals and clients to increase your industry knowledge and grow in your career.
  • Commitment to perform responsibilities consistent with industry standards to achieve department and company goals.
  • Interest in developing relationships with clients, partners, and local organizations to remain a trusted resource in the community.
  • Seated and Standing Position. Extended periods of sitting and standing in an upright position at a workstation.
  • Mobility. Movement within the office and job sites, including navigating between floors, workstations, and outdoor environments with potential for uneven surfaces.
  • Head and Neck Movement. Forward flexion, extension, or lateral rotation of the head and neck while using multiple computer screens.
  • Repetitive Motion. Repetitive finger movements for operating a computer mouse and typing on a keyboard.
  • Arm Movement. Extending hands and arms in various directions, such as overhead, below the waist, forward, or laterally.
  • Object Handling. Raising or lowering objects from one level to another and transporting objects by holding them in the hands, arms, or over the shoulder.
  • Cognitive Requirements. Selective attention, oral comprehension, oral expression, speech recognition, speech clarity, written comprehension, written expression, problem sensitivity, deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, number facility, information ordering, category flexibility, flexibility of closure, fluency of ideas, and originality.
  • Construction Sites, Traffic Zones, and Other Work Sites. Ability to move effectively in and around construction sites, traffic work zones, and other outdoor assignments.
  • Physical Abilities. Includes hand-eye coordination, steadiness, upper and lower body strength, control precision, stamina, multi-limb coordination, static strength, manual dexterity, depth perception, and both oral comprehension and expression.
  • Alertness. Must remain alert and responsive while working in lane closure zones adjacent to high-traffic and dynamic areas.
  • Lifting and Carrying. Capable of lifting, carrying, and balancing equipment and supplies weighing up to 30 pounds in various environments, including remote, rural, or urban settings.
  • Walking and Climbing. Ability to walk long distances (3+ miles) and climb on ladders and uneven surfaces.
  • Vehicle Use: Frequent climbing in and out of vehicles and extended periods of driving.
  • Repeated Motions. Includes activities such as reaching, bending, stooping, carrying, lifting, pushing, pulling, and handling.
  • Sitting and Standing. Ability to sit and/or stand for extended periods.
  • Warehouse Mobility. Movement within the warehouse, including navigating between floors, workstations, high-traffic areas, and various walking surfaces.
  • Communication. Effective communication with other employees and clients.
  • Cognitive Requirements. Selective attention, oral comprehension, oral expression, speech recognition, speech clarity, written comprehension, written expression, problem sensitivity, deductive reasoning, inductive reasoning, number facility, information ordering, category flexibility, flexibility of closure, fluency of ideas, and originality.
  • Work is carried out in both a professional office and various outdoor environments.
  • Includes extensive use of electronic devices such as computers, printers, copiers, scanners, plotters, and telephones. Additionally, tasks may involve the use of cutting tools and equipment like rotary paper cutters and plotting devices.
  • Includes walking and climbing on uneven surfaces, confined spaces, exposure to extreme weather conditions (heat and freezing temperatures).
  • Regular use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required, along with use of hand and power tools.
  • Driving fleet vehicles for extended periods of time.
  • Potential exposure to high noise levels and various allergens, including but not limited to poison ivy, sumac, dust, pollen, and cedar.
  • Potential exposure to wildlife hazards including but not limited to animals, insects, and plants.

Nice To Haves

  • TXDOT Construction and Utility Inspection experience preferred.
  • TXDOT SB 102 and Level 1B certification preferred.
  • Working knowledge of Headlight software preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Monitor construction activities on-site to ensure work aligns with approved plans and specifications.
  • Document daily site conditions, progress, and any notable issues through reports and photos.
  • Communicate observations, potential concerns, and solutions to project managers or engineers promptly.
  • Verify quantities and assist with contractor pay applications as needed.
  • Track schedule adherence and report delays or deviations.
  • Observe/Inspect safety practices and report any hazards or violations.
  • Attend project meetings and provide updates on field conditions.
  • Maintain accurate records of site visits, observations, and communications.
  • Serve as the liaison between the field and the office team without directing contractor operations.
  • Support quality assurance efforts by noting workmanship and material compliance.
  • Observe construction activities at sites to ensure compliance with contract specifications and approved plans.
  • Observe/Inspect and test work using handheld tools to record field notes and track progress to identify potential conflicts and make recommendations on how to proceed.
  • Observe/Inspect, coordinate, and track utility relocation.
  • Observe/Inspect materials.
  • Schedule and attend Utility Meetings, Public Utility Meetings, One-to-One Utility Meetings, and Municipality coordination meetings.
  • Read and interpret plan drawings.
  • Exercise judgment in identifying potential problems and take necessary corrective action to inform the contractor and Construction Manager that an item is out of compliance.
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned.
  • Perform independent research and delegate changing priorities.
  • Work with minimal supervision and deliver accurate work product.
  • Adhere to CobbFendley’s safetystandards to uphold a safe and efficient environment.
  • Maintain a professional attitude and fulfill responsibilities with integrity.

Benefits

  • 401(k) Matching
  • Profit-sharing Contributions
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Employer Funded and Voluntary Life Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Continuing Education Programs
  • Paid Parental Leave (maternity, paternity, adoption)
  • Winter Holiday (office closure from December 25 through January 1)
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service