Whether a vehicle flies at high altitude, rolls on 18 wheels, or hauls cargo across oceans, a transportation inspector makes sure it meets all laws and regulations. They keep vehicles, cargo, and passengers on the move as well as safe. Vehicle inspectors examine cars, trucks, and accessories to report on the condition of their parts, typically for a car dealership or a government agency. They ensure there are no illegal devices on cars or trucks, such as those meant to get around auto emissions laws. They also conduct test drives to see that everything sounds, and feels, like it’s running smoothly, and to determine whether there’s been prior damage. Physical strength may be needed to lift heavy equipment for some inspections. Typically, vehicle inspectors need a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Aviation inspectors review all procedures, equipment, and systems on an aircraft to ensure it meets federal safety regulations. They examine flight logs and maintenance records to verify all required checks have been performed, and investigate accidents and complaints to determine causes. Most positions require a certificate from an aviation maintenance technician school approved by the Federal Aviation Administration, along with on-the-job experience. Freight and cargo inspectors ensure ships’ freight is secured and complies with regulations. They measure ships’ holds and tank contents, calculate hold capacities, and check conditions of shipping and storage areas. Most positions require a bachelor’s degree.
What they do:
Inspect and monitor transportation equipment, vehicles, or systems to ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards.
On the job, you would:
Inspect vehicles or other equipment for evidence of abuse, damage, or mechanical malfunction.
Inspect vehicles or equipment to ensure compliance with rules, standards, or regulations.
Inspect repairs to transportation vehicles or equipment to ensure that repair work was performed properly.
Engineering and Technology
mechanical
Transportation
movement of people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road
Arts and Humanities
English language
Safety and Government
public safety and security
Basic Skills
listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
reading work related information
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Verbal
listen and understand what people say
communicate by speaking
Hand and Finger Use
keep your arm or hand steady
People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
Independence
Integrity
Cooperation
Attention to Detail
Concern for Others
Dependability
You might use software like this on the job:
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Data base user interface and query software
Commercial driver's license information system CDLIS
Past Inspection Query PIQ
high school diploma/GED or no high school diploma/GED usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.