Special Inspector

Job Title:

Special Inspector

Job Description

This Special Inspector role focuses on performing field inspections and tests to verify that construction work complies with approved plans, specifications, and applicable codes. You will interpret construction documents, conduct materials testing within your certification scope, and document findings through clear and timely daily reports. The position offers significant in-field exposure, opportunities to gain additional certifications, and a strong path for growth within the special inspection discipline.

Responsibilities

+ Perform special inspections in accordance with approved plans, specifications, and applicable building codes.

+ Read and interpret construction documents, including drawings, RFIs, and structural details, to understand project requirements and inspection scope.

+ Conduct field testing and inspections within your certification scope, including concrete testing, reinforced concrete, post-tensioned systems, and other materials testing as applicable.

+ Prepare accurate, detailed, and timely daily inspection reports that clearly document observations, test results, and any nonconforming work.

+ Communicate effectively with project managers, contractors, and internal staff to discuss findings, clarify requirements, and resolve issues in the field.

+ Maintain current certifications and actively pursue additional relevant certifications to expand inspection capabilities.

+ Uphold strong safety practices in all field environments, following site-specific and company safety procedures.

+ Participate in continuing education and professional development activities to stay current with industry standards, codes, and best practices.

+ Use non-destructive examination (NDE/NDT) methods and nuclear density testing when qualified and required by the project.

+ Support multiple projects across commercial, mixed-use, multi-family, educational, and highway scopes, adapting to varying site conditions and requirements.

Essential Skills

+ Minimum 2 years of experience in construction inspection or special inspection.

+

Experience with at least one of the following: concrete testing, reinforced concrete, or post-tensioned concrete systems.

+ Hands-on experience as a construction or concrete inspector with reinforced concrete and post-tension experience.

+ Familiarity with ICC-related inspection practices and concrete inspection standards.

+ Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, RFIs, and structural details.

+ Proficiency in preparing clear, accurate, and timely daily inspection reports.

+ Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with project managers, contractors, and internal teams.

+ Valid driver's license to travel between job sites.

+ Commitment to maintaining high safety standards in all field environments.

+ Ability to perform materials testing, including concrete testing and nuclear density testing, within certification scope.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ ICC-related experience or certifications in areas such as reinforced concrete, structural steel, or proprietary anchors.

+ OBOA (Oregon Building Officials Association) or WABO (Washington Association of Building Officials) certification, or the ability to obtain one within a few months.

+ Nuclear Density Gauge training and certification is a plus.

+ ACI Concrete Field-Testing Technician certification is preferred.

+ ICC Reinforced Concrete certification is preferred.

+ ICC Structural Steel & Bolting certification is preferred.

+ ICC Proprietary Anchors certification is preferred.

+ Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification is a plus, especially with construction inspection experience.

+ AWS-CWI welding experience in a construction inspection context is a plus.

+ ODOT-related certifications are a plus.

+

Experience with non-destructive testing (NDT/NDE) methods and welding inspection is advantageous.

+ Interest in obtaining additional ICC certifications and advancing within the special inspector role.

+ Willingness to engage in continuing education through platforms such as Udemy and other professional development resources.

Work Environment

This role is predominantly field-based, with approximately 90% of the time spent on active job sites. You will travel to different construction sites around the Portland area, and depending on your level, you may have access to a company vehicle for site visits. Travel outside of Portland is not required but is encouraged for those interested in broader project exposure. As you advance in the role, you may be assigned to a single job site for extended periods.

Initial assignments are most likely to include a large medical center project in North Portland, with additional work across commercial, mixed-use, multi-family, school, and highway projects throughout the region. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, access to a continuing education platform, structured 360-degree performance…