Field Inspector

Lerch Bates is seeking experienced Part-Time Field Inspectors to support our Vertical Transportation team by evaluating existing elevator and conveyance systems in a variety of building types.

About the role

In this role, you will conduct field inspections, equipment assessments, maintenance audits, modernization evaluations, and condition surveys while providing clear, detailed, and timely documentation of findings and recommendations. This position focuses primarily on existing building work, helping building owners and managers make informed decisions regarding system performance, code compliance, maintenance practices, equipment lifecycle planning, and modernization strategies. Field Inspectors manage their own schedules while serving as trusted technical resources on a project-by-project basis. This is a part-time, contingent position and is not currently eligible for benefits. It is ideal for seasoned industry professionals seeking flexible, project-based work.

About Lerch Bates

Lerch Bates (LB) is a global technical consulting firm focused on improving how buildings perform for owners, designers, and the people who use them every day. For more than 75 years we’ve partnered on some of the world’s most complex and high-profile projects. Today we provide Total Building Performance expertise that integrates Building Science and Building Flow into a unified delivery model. Our work spans design, construction, investigation, repair, rehabilitation, management, and modernization with one consistent goal: helping clients make confident, well-informed decisions in an increasingly complex built environment. We are 100% employee-owned through our ESOP. That means when the company succeeds, our employee-owners share in that success. It's more than a retirement benefit—it's an ownership mindset backed by the opportunity to build long-term financial value while helping shape the future of the company.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field evaluations of existing vertical transportation systems, including elevators, escalators, moving walks, wheelchair lifts, dumbwaiters, and other conveyance equipment.
• Perform condition assessments, maintenance audits, code compliance reviews, and modernization evaluations to support client decision-making and long-term asset planning.
• Document equipment conditions, operational performance, deficiencies, and observations during site visits.
• Prepare detailed inspection reports, assessment findings, and technical recommendations in a timely and professional manner.
• Clearly communicate observations, risks, and recommended actions to support maintenance, repair, and modernization strategies.
• Ensure all documentation meets Lerch Bates quality standards and project requirements.
• Manage your own schedule and workload to ensure inspections, assessments, and reports are completed accurately and on time.
• Maintain professional and courteous interactions with building owners, property managers, maintenance providers, and other project stakeholders.
• Serve as a trusted technical resource by providing objective, experience-based observations and recommendations.
• Maintain knowledge of industry codes, standards, technologies, and best practices related to vertical transportation systems.
• Support special projects and other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Thorough knowledge of conveyance equipment installation, maintenance, and applicable elevator codes.
• Prior experience in the elevator or vertical transportation industry.
• QEI and/or CEI certification strongly preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and inspection accuracy.
• Ability to work in elevated and confined environments, including high-rise buildings and elevator shafts.

Benefits

• Competitive, project-based compensation.
• Flexible scheduling.
• Exposure to diverse projects and clients across multiple markets.
• Collaboration with industry-leading technical experts.
• A values-driven, employee-owned culture.

Core Values

• Ownership
• Community
• Integrity
• Respect
• Optimism

Working Environment

This role involves both physical and mental demands and may be performed in various settings, including offices, construction sites, and confined spaces like elevator pits. Tasks often require frequent movement in multiple directions. Lerch Bates will provide reasonable accommodation upon request through Human Resources.

Physical Demands

• Regular sitting, talking, and hearing in meetings and by phone.
• Navigating tight spaces, climbing ladders, and moving around construction sites.
• Taking measurements and traveling by car, air, or rail.
• Working at heights and in confined spaces.
• Using hands for tasks like typing and operating elevator components.
• Applying up to 30 lbs. of force.
• Close visual attention.

Mental Demands

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Interpreting complex information and applying mathematical and logical reasoning.
• Quickly learning new skills.
• Managing detailed, multitask workloads under shifting deadlines.
• Regular interaction with executives, colleagues, clients, and external stakeholders.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment background check and drug test. The drug test includes screening for marijuana, regardless of state or local laws permitting its use. A conditional offer of employment will be rescinded if a candidate fails either the background check or the drug test.