Transportation Inspectors
Inspect equipment or goods in connection with the safe transport of cargo or people. Includes rail transportation inspectors, such as freight inspectors, rail inspectors, and other inspectors of transportation vehicles not elsewhere classified.
Common Job Titles
- Cargo Surveyor
- Marine Cargo Surveyor
- Marine Surveyor
- Petroleum Inspector
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onInspect transportation equipment, structures, and cargo materials using precision measurement tools and digital imaging equipment in field and terminal environments.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate equipment conditions and cargo specifications for compliance with federal and state transportation regulations independently making determinations that affect public safety.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate public safety priorities with operational efficiency requirements when communicating findings to carriers, operators, and regulatory agencies.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply transportation laws, mechanical principles, and engineering standards to evaluate the airworthiness, seaworthiness, or roadworthiness of vehicles and equipment.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret technical documentation, maintenance records, and certification requirements to determine compliance status during on-site inspections.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess mechanical systems, cargo loading procedures, and structural integrity of transportation assets in diverse settings including rail yards, marine terminals, and roadway checkpoints.Proficient
- KnowledgeExplain inspection findings, regulatory requirements, and enforcement actions through written reports and verbal communication with diverse stakeholders.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze inspection data and quantifiable characteristics of transportation materials using measuring instruments and sampling equipment to identify safety hazards.Developing
- Hands-onOperate digital measurement devices, calibrated scales, and portable diagnostic equipment following standardized inspection protocols under time constraints.Developing
- MindsetEngage with transportation personnel and management to explain violations, negotiate corrective actions, and promote safety culture.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Transportation Inspectors (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
23,320
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $40,090. 25th percentile: U.S. $58,650. 50th percentile: U.S. $85,750. 75th percentile: U.S. $105,020. 90th percentile: U.S. $137,120. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $40,090 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $137,120 |
| Workers on average earn | $86,490 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Transportation3.9/5
- English Language3.8/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
- Mathematics3.2/5
- Public Safety and Security3.2/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Acrobat
- Google Android
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Email software
- Web browser software
Tools & Equipment
- Automatic samplers
- Bottom samplers
- Calibrated measuring tapes
- Calipers
- Cargo scales
- Centrifugal testers
- Desktop computers
- Digital cameras