Inspector - Rail

Michael Baker International•Alexandria, VA

1d•$85,715 - $115,654•Onsite

About The Position

Rail and Transit Practice Whether moving people or freight, future rail and transit solutions will be shaped by energy costs, urban growth, and environmental priorities. Michael Baker helps freight railroads, transit authorities, and state DOTs address these challenges through services focused on state of good repair, capacity, safety, asset management, and sustainable infrastructure solutions. By partnering closely with our clients, we deliver innovative, practical, and cost‑effective solutions that support the successful delivery of complex rail and transit projects. What We’re Looking For Michael Baker is seeking an experienced Rail Inspector to support rail infrastructure projects in the Alexandria area. This senior‑level role provides on‑site inspection and oversight to ensure construction activities comply with approved plans, specifications, railroad standards, and safety requirements. The Senior Inspector may also provide day‑to-day guidance to junior inspectors and serve as a key field liaison among contractors, railroad representatives, and the project team. What You’ll Do Perform and oversee daily inspections of rail construction activities, including trackwork, civil grading, drainage, structures, and related railroad improvements. Ensure construction is performed in compliance with contract documents, project specifications, and applicable railroad standards (FRA, AREMA, agency requirements). Monitor contractor compliance with safety requirements, railroad operating rules, and approved work plans. Prepare, review, and approve detailed daily inspection reports, field notes, progress photographs, and documentation. Observe and document material deliveries, testing procedures, and installation methods. Coordinate field activities with contractors, railroad personnel, flagging services, testing agencies, and third‑party inspectors. Identify non‑conforming work, document deficiencies, and communicate corrective actions to the Resident Engineer or Construction Manager. Track quantities, verify pay items, and assist with progress measurements. Participate in project meetings, safety briefings, coordination meetings, and client updates. Support project closeout activities, including punch lists, final inspections, and documentation. May provide technical guidance, oversight, and mentorship to other inspectors and assist with inspection team coordination. What You Need to Succeed High school diploma or equivalent required (additional technical training or certifications preferred). 10+ years of construction inspection experience on freight rail, commuter rail, light rail, or transit projects. Demonstrated expertise in rail construction methods, field inspection practices, and quality control procedures. Strong working knowledge of FRA, AREMA, and railroad or transit agency standards. Experience interpreting construction plans, specifications, and contract documents. Ability to lead or support inspection teams and communicate effectively with contractors, inspectors, and project leadership. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to safety and quality. Compensation: The approximate compensation range for this position is $85,715 - $115,654 per year. This compensation range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location. Why Choose Us: Medical, dental, vision insurance 401k Retirement Plan Health Savings Account (HSA) Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability Professional and personal development Generous paid time off Commuter and wellness benefits

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required (additional technical training or certifications preferred).
10+ years of construction inspection experience on freight rail, commuter rail, light rail, or transit projects.
Demonstrated expertise in rail construction methods, field inspection practices, and quality control procedures.
Strong working knowledge of FRA, AREMA, and railroad or transit agency standards.
Experience interpreting construction plans, specifications, and contract documents.
Ability to lead or support inspection teams and communicate effectively with contractors, inspectors, and project leadership.
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to safety and quality.

Responsibilities

Perform and oversee daily inspections of rail construction activities, including trackwork, civil grading, drainage, structures, and related railroad improvements.
Ensure construction is performed in compliance with contract documents, project specifications, and applicable railroad standards (FRA, AREMA, agency requirements).
Monitor contractor compliance with safety requirements, railroad operating rules, and approved work plans.
Prepare, review, and approve detailed daily inspection reports, field notes, progress photographs, and documentation.
Observe and document material deliveries, testing procedures, and installation methods.
Coordinate field activities with contractors, railroad personnel, flagging services, testing agencies, and third‑party inspectors.
Identify non‑conforming work, document deficiencies, and communicate corrective actions to the Resident Engineer or Construction Manager.
Track quantities, verify pay items, and assist with progress measurements.
Participate in project meetings, safety briefings, coordination meetings, and client updates.
Support project closeout activities, including punch lists, final inspections, and documentation.
May provide technical guidance, oversight, and mentorship to other inspectors and assist with inspection team coordination.