CEI Inspectors

What if your next career move helped shape the roads, bridges, airports, and rail systems that keep North Carolina moving? S&ME is seeking Construction Engineering and Inspection (CEI) Inspectors to join our Transportation team across North Carolina, including Asheville, Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh, Wilmington, and surrounding areas. Your work will contribute directly to the successful delivery of infrastructure that serves communities for generations.

At S&ME, we have a history of delivering innovative geotechnical, civil, environmental, and construction material testing for over 50 years. We have grown into a trusted partner for clients across transportation, energy, water, waste management, education, government, commercial, and industrial sectors. Our commitment to technical excellence and integrity has established us as a leader in our field.

About the Role

As a CEI Inspector, you'll play a critical role in overseeing contractor activities and ensuring successful project completion. In this mid-level or lead technician role, you may make key technical decisions and work independently on medium-sized projects or as part of a team on larger projects.

• Oversee construction activities, such as earthmoving, paving, bridge construction, and traffic control, to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, and safety standards.
• Inspect erosion control measures and environmental compliance while performing material sampling and quality testing.
• Prepare detailed daily inspection reports, document contractor performance, and process payment records.
• Conduct calculations, maintain records of material quantities, and ensure project timelines are met.
• Attend progress and safety meetings, working closely with contractors, engineers, and stakeholders to resolve project challenges.
• Perform DBE/EEO compliance surveys to verify adherence to inclusivity and workforce standards.

CEI Inspectors may encounter a variety of challenging work environments, including exposure to outdoor conditions, highway traffic, uneven terrain, and construction hazards involving heavy machinery. This role may also require extended hours, including weekends and holidays. You must be capable of lifting and carrying 40-50lbs., maneuver field equipment safely, including loaded wheelbarrows, on uneven ground and around active construction sites.

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
• Active NCDOT certifications such as QMS Roadway, Conventional Density, Concrete Field Technician, Erosion Control Level II, and/or Nuclear Gauge
• Strong English communication skills (oral and written)
• Solid math skills with knowledge of weight, volume, pressure, and measurement units
• Flexibility to work variable schedules and willingness to travel as needed

Physical Demands

You must be willing and able to perform the following with the use of company-provided Personal Protective Equipment:

• Work the majority of the time outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Walk over rough, uneven terrain and stand for potentially up to 12 hours a day
• Routinely lift and carry 40-50lbs (field/laboratory samples and equipment)
• Maneuver field equipment safely, such as a loaded wheelbarrow, on uneven ground around active construction sites

The position involves exposure to highway traffic, heavy machinery, and active construction sites, with potential for long hours, weekends, and holidays.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Plans with HSA and FSA options
• 100% Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with a 5% company contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO) - with rollover options
• Paid Maternity/Parental Leave
• Employee Recognition Program
• Credential Incentive Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Company Vehicle with Fuel Card for Project-Based Work
• $2,000 Referral Bonuses

Compensation is based on experience, with additional bonuses for holding relevant certifications.