Transportation inspectors

SOC Code: 53-6051
Also known as:
Admeasurer, Bridge Inspector, Cargo Inspector, Cargo Surveyor, Container Inspector
Median Annual Salary
$85,750
+1.7% growth (2024-2034)
3K
Openings/Year
26K
Current Jobs

What Transportation inspectors Do

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.

💰 Salary

$85,750
Median annual wage (2024)

📈 Job Growth

+1.7%
As fast as average

🎓 Education

High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement

🚀 Annual Openings

3K
Projected average per year

📚 On-the-Job Training

Moderate-term on-the-job training
Expected training period

Employment Projections (2024-2034)

Current Employment (2024)

25,700

Projected Employment (2034)

26,100

Related Careers

Transportation inspectors

$85,750 • +1.7% growth
View →

Top Skills Required

Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Speaking
Operations Monitoring

Daily Tasks & Responsibilities

  • Prepare and submit reports after completion of freight shipments.
  • Inspect shipments to ensure that freight is securely braced and blocked.
  • Record details about freight conditions, handling of freight, and any problems encountered.
  • Advise crews in techniques of stowing dangerous and heavy cargo.
  • Observe loading of freight to ensure that crews comply with procedures.
  • Recommend remedial procedures to correct any violations found during inspections.
  • Inspect loaded cargo, cargo lashed to decks or in storage facilities, and cargo handling devices to determine compliance with health and safety regulations and need for maintenance.
  • Notify workers of any special treatment required for shipments.
  • Direct crews to reload freight or to insert additional bracing or packing as necessary.
  • Check temperatures and humidities of shipping and storage areas to ensure that they are at appropriate levels to protect cargo.

Technology & Tools

Adobe Acrobat Google Android Microsoft Excel Microsoft Office software Microsoft Outlook Microsoft Word Adobe InDesign Adobe Photoshop Microsoft Access Microsoft Active Server Pages ASP

📚 Entry-Level Education

High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement

🎯 Recommended Education

Associate's Degree
O*NET recommended level

College Rankings

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much do transportation inspectors make?
The median annual salary for transportation inspectors is $85,750.
What education do transportation inspectors need?
Most transportation inspectors positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Is becoming transportation inspectors a good career choice?
Transportation inspectors is projected to see +1.7% job growth from 2024 to 2034, which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 2,500 job openings expected annually, there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for transportation inspectors?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to transportation inspectors?
Transportation inspectors may also be known as: Admeasurer, Bridge Inspector, Cargo Inspector, Cargo Surveyor, Container Inspector, Damaged Freight Inspector, Equipment Inspector, Freight Car Inspector, Freight Inspector, Freight Service Inspector, Heavy Check Inspector, Inspector, Loading Inspector, Locomotive Inspector, Maintenance Inspector, Marine Cargo Broker, Marine Cargo Inspector, Marine Cargo Specialist, Marine Cargo Surveyor, Marine Surveyor. These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.