Field Inspector- Rail and Transit - (West)

As a Field Inspector at Jacobs, your primary responsibilities will involve providing on-site construction monitoring for various projects focused on accessibility improvements through the Amtrak ADA Stations Program. You’ll ensure contractor performance meets contract requirements, prepare daily inspection reports, and assist in post-construction assessments to verify compliance with both contract and ADA standards.

To qualify for the Field Inspector position at Jacobs, you should have a minimum of 6-8 years of experience in field inspection, specifically in construction oversight for transportation projects. A high school diploma or GED is required, while an Associate’s Degree in a related field is preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and strong communication skills are also essential.

In the Field Inspector role at Jacobs, you can expect to travel approximately 80% of your working time. This may involve one- or two-week trips to various project locations throughout the continental U.S., giving you a chance to experience diverse work environments and connect with a range of teams.

A typical day for a Field Inspector at Jacobs includes onsite monitoring of construction activities, conducting inspections, preparing reports documenting compliance and deviations, meeting with the Contracting Official’s Technical Representative, and fostering a culture of safety while ensuring the project aligns with contract requirements and engineering practices.

Jacobs is committed to the professional growth of its employees, including Field Inspectors. You will have opportunities for training, advancement, and mentorship. Joining a diverse team enables knowledge sharing and skills development, empowering you to further your career in the field of construction and engineering.

When answering this question, emphasize your years of experience in field inspection, detailing the types of projects you've worked on, your responsibilities, and any specific challenges you've overcome. Highlight your familiarity with construction standards, safety protocols, and your interactions with contractors and project management.

To effectively ensure compliance with project specifications, discuss your systematic approach to inspections, including reviewing contract documents, conducting thorough assessments of work performed, and documenting compliance or deficiencies clearly. Mention how you communicate findings with the contractor and make sure corrective actions are taken.

Provide a specific example of a situation where you detected a major issue, detail how you handled it, and the steps you took to resolve it. This should demonstrate your ability to communicate issues effectively and take necessary actions promptly to maintain project standards.

When prioritizing tasks across multiple projects, explain your strategy for assessing deadlines, the severity of issues, and client needs. Mention tools or methods you use to stay organized, ensuring that you can manage time effectively while maintaining high quality in your inspections.

Discuss the documentation methods you’re familiar with, such as daily reports, photographs, and digital documentation tools like Unifier. Emphasize the importance of detailed and accurate records for maintaining compliance and facilitating communication among stakeholders.

Address how you lead by example when it comes to safety practices. Mention any training you've undergone, safety protocols you follow, and how you engage with contractors to foster a safe working environment that prioritizes the well-being of all team members.

Highlight your insights and experience relating to ADA compliance in construction projects. Discuss how you apply ADA principles in inspections and how ensuring accessibility can lead to a better experience for all passengers and stakeholders.

Convey your passion for contributing to community improvements and how Jacobs' mission aligns with your values. Mention the company’s reputation for fostering an inclusive workplace and their commitment to impactful projects as motivating factors for your interest.

Emphasize your collaborative skills by sharing specific examples of successful teamwork in previous positions. Discuss your ability to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and contribute positively to a team dynamic, particularly in high-stakes construction projects.

Talk about how you typically address contractor performance issues by first documenting the concerns clearly, discussing them with the contractor to seek resolutions, and escalating as necessary to ensure compliance with contractual obligations, all while maintaining professional relationships.