Senior Construction Inspector - DPW

City of Detroit•Michigan, MI
•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Senior Construction Inspector supervises subordinate inspectors conducting field inspections and/or performs field inspection work to ensure construction complies with plans, specifications, codes, and recognized standards and work methods. The position is responsible for one or more construction projects. Work includes reviewing plans and specifications, monitoring project progress and quality, documenting construction activities, coordinating with contractors and government agencies, and supervising and training inspection staff. Employees assigned to the Department of Public Works may need to obtain required MDOT certifications. Work is performed at construction or field work sites and may involve exposure to heat, dust, fumes, standing water, confined spaces, raised platforms, excavations, and seasonal weather conditions. Employees may be required to perform related duties beyond those listed, and essential duties may vary by position.

Requirements

  • High school graduation or GED.
  • Two years of experience in inspection, construction, and field engineering work.
  • Valid State of Michigan Operator License.
  • Knowledge of construction methods, materials, equipment, testing instruments, and practices.
  • Knowledge of construction specifications and standards, hazardous-material testing requirements, and related documentation.
  • Knowledge of City of Detroit Standard Plans and Specifications and Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Standard Specifications for Construction.
  • Knowledge of OSHA and MIOSHA safety regulations and regulations governing hazardous-material removal.
  • Skill in inspection, construction, and field engineering work; applying construction standards and specifications; using surveying instruments and personal computers and common office software; and observing site conditions.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering sketches, drawings, and specifications; supervise inspectors; prepare clear and accurate reports; communicate with a range of colleagues, contractors, government officials, and the public; address difficult inspection problems resourcefully; and acquire additional knowledge and skills through training.
  • Sufficient strength to lift and carry tools, materials, and equipment.

Nice To Haves

  • Completion of two years of engineering coursework at a recognized college or university.
  • Ability to obtain Department of Public Works-required MDOT certifications, such as Field Manager, Computerized Office Technician, Concrete Paving/Bridge Construction Inspection, Aggregate Technician, Bituminous Technician Level I, Density Certification, Hot Mix Asphalt Paving Inspection, Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control, and Concrete Level I Certification.

Responsibilities

  • Review and interpret design plans, specifications, blueprints, and sketches, and provide information about site conditions.
  • Ensure site work does not damage existing utilities and that sites are properly barricaded for worker and public safety.
  • Prepare daily and weekly progress logs and reports, Inspectors' Daily Records, and required construction accounting and documentation records.
  • Prepare and issue deficiency and punch lists to contractors as needed.
  • Monitor work schedules, assess progress, and prepare contract progress payment estimates.
  • Inspect and report conditions that may require changes to specifications, work procedures, or schedules.
  • Investigate and assist in resolving disputes with contractors.
  • Use test and measuring instruments and conduct tests to assess material quality and work accuracy.
  • Conduct simpler field or laboratory tests on concrete, asphalt, and granular materials as required.
  • Transport material samples to contracted laboratories and obtain test certifications and documentation.
  • Collect and enter construction data into computer databases.
  • Check or perform construction surveying, including determining the location, dimensions, alignment, and grade of structures using appropriate instruments.
  • Maintain field liaison with government agencies, suppliers, and contractors by providing information and responding to complaints.
  • Drive to work sites.
  • Prepare drawings, sketches, and other records reflecting as-built construction work.
  • Assign work to subordinate inspectors and monitor their field activities.
  • Train and instruct less experienced inspection staff in site inspection work.
  • Report work-rule violations and other matters requiring discipline.
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