Transportation Vehicle, Equipment and Systems Inspectors, Except Aviation
Inspect and monitor transportation equipment, vehicles, or systems to ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards.
SOC: 53-6051.07
Common Job Titles
- Carman
- Inspector
- Smog Technician
- Transit Vehicle Inspector
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate transportation vehicles, equipment, and systems against federal and state safety regulations using diagnostic equipment and measurement tools to ensure compliance with standards.Proficient
- MindsetUphold public safety standards and regulatory enforcement responsibilities when making compliance determinations that impact transportation operations.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform detailed mechanical inspections of vehicle components, including brakes, tires, and structural elements using precision measurement instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze vehicle diagnostic data and test results using OBD scanners and exhaust analyzers to identify safety violations and mechanical defects.Developing
- Hands-onOperate specialized inspection equipment including dynamometers, wheel alignment gauges, and hydraulic lifts following standardized testing protocols under time constraints.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret technical specifications and regulatory requirements for transportation equipment referencing federal motor carrier safety regulations and manufacturer standards.Developing
- MindsetEngage with vehicle operators and fleet managers regarding inspection findings and compliance issues communicating technical deficiencies clearly and professionally.Developing
- KnowledgeApply troubleshooting procedures to diagnose mechanical and electrical system failures in field inspection environments with limited resources.Developing
- Hands-onExecute roadside vehicle inspections and compliance checks working independently in various weather conditions and traffic environments.Developing
- KnowledgeExplain inspection results, safety violations, and corrective action requirements documenting findings in inspection databases and enforcement systems.Developing
- KnowledgeCompare vehicle condition data with historical inspection records using inspection databases and vehicle identification systems to identify patterns of non-compliance.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate measurement tools and testing devices to assess equipment tolerances and performance specifications achieving precise readings for brake performance, emission levels, and structural integrity.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Transportation Vehicle, Equipment and Systems Inspectors, Except Aviation (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
- Mechanical4.0/5
- Transportation3.3/5
- English Language3.2/5
- Public Safety and Security3.0/5
- Administration and Management3.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Structured query language SQL
Technology Skills
- ASPEN
- Commercial driver's license information system CDLIS
- Diagnostic scanner software
- Inspection Selection System ISS
- Law enforcement database software
- Past Inspection Query PIQ
- Vehicle identification INTEGER VIN database
- Vehicle inspection databases
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable wrenches
- Barcode scanners
- Battery charge testers
- Battery test hydrometers
- Computer data input scanners
- Decelerometers
- Desktop computers
- Dial indicators