Inspector Apprentice
Posted on 8/28/2025

Virginia Department of Transportation
No salary listed
Bristol, VA, USA
In Person
In a training capacity, inspect phases of highway construction and maintenance projects in order to prepare to assume the duties of a construction inspector and provide a quality transportation system for the traveling public.
How you will contribute:
Communication: Keep supervisor and other inspection staff apprised of project activities. Actively seek feedback and direction from supervising inspectors and other VDOT personnel. Represent VDOT in a professional manner in all situations.
Construction and Contract Compliance: Develop an understanding of construction sequences and methods. Accurately interpret construction plans and specifications. Seek out opportunities to learn and prepare for inspection of activities in advance. Inspect road and structure construction projects to ensure contract compliance. Anticipate problems and assist in developing solutions to minor problems. Use survey instruments to check elevations. Apply geometric and trigonometric principles and formulas.
Project Documentation: Ensure required documentation is included in the project file. Ensure measurements, tests, calculations and documentation are accurate. Record daily work activities and keep project documentation up-to-date.
Project Safety and Environmental Compliance: Ensure work zones are properly established and maintained. Ensure project employees and equipment are performing in compliance with safety practices and directives. Monitor erosion and sediment control measures to ensure compliance and appropriate maintenance. Maintain a clean and organized work environment.
What will make you successful:
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with various stakeholders, e.g. contractors, general public, internal and external government agencies.
Ability to perform physically demanding work in field conditions such as using test equipment, lifting, climbing, stooping, working at heights, in confined spaces and making visual observations.
Ability to read, analyze and interpret construction plans, specifications and contract documents.
Ability to work in the vicinity and operate devices utilizing low-level ionizing radiation.
Basic knowledge and understanding of highway construction and contracting.
Knowledge in mathematics such as geometry and trigonometry.
Skill in the use of computers and software applications.
Minimum Qualifications:
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with various stakeholders, e.g. contractors, general public, internal and external government agencies.
Ability to obtain required certifications within 24 months.
Ability to perform physically demanding work in field conditions such as using testing equipment, lifting, climbing, stooping, working at heights, in confined spaces and making visual observations.
Ability to read, analyze and interpret construction plans, specifications and contract documents.
Basic knowledge and understanding of highway construction and contracting.
Knowledge in mathematics, e.g. geometry and trigonometry.
Safety shoes required.
Skill in the use of computers and software applications.
Valid driver's license.
Additional Considerations:
A combination of training, experience, or education in Construction, Engineering Technology, Project Management, Materials Handling or related field desired.
Commercial Driver's License.
Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
Competency Model
VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
VDOT Code of Ethics
Standards of Conduct
How you will contribute:
What will make you successful:
Minimum Qualifications:
Additional Considerations:
Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
Competency Model
Physical Requirements
Physical Requirements
VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
VDOT Code of Ethics
Standards of Conduct
Physical Requirements
Physical Requirements

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