Job Description
Senior Rail Inspector Whether moving people or freight, future rail and transit solutions are shaped by energy costs, urban growth, and environmental priorities. Michael Baker International helps freight railroads, transit authorities, and state departments of transportation (DOTs) address these challenges through services focused on state of good repair, capacity, safety, asset management, and sustainable infrastructure solutions. By partnering closely with our clients, we deliver innovative, practical, and cost?effective rail and transit solutions that support the successful delivery of complex infrastructure projects nationwide. We are seeking an experienced Senior Rail Inspector in Alexandria, VA to support our local rail and transit infrastructure projects. In this role, you will provide on?site inspection, quality oversight, and safety monitoring to ensure that rail construction activities comply with approved plans, specifications, railroad standards, and regulatory requirements. In addition, you will serve as a key field representative and liaison among contractors, railroad and transit agencies, flagging services, and the project delivery team. In addition to overseeing daily construction activities, you may need to provide technical guidance and day?to?day support to junior inspectors on occasion while helping ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with contract requirements. This is a great opportunity for a seasoned rail inspection professional with deep knowledge of rail construction methods, safety practices, and railroad standards, who thrives in a fast?paced, field?oriented environment! What You'll Do Perform and oversee daily field inspections of rail construction activities, including trackwork, civil grading, drainage, structural interfaces, and related railroad infrastructure Verify construction work complies with contract documents, approved plans, project specifications, and railroad/transit standards (including FRA, AREMA, and agency requirements) Monitor contractor compliance with safety requirements, railroad operating rules, and approved work plans Prepare, review, and approve detailed daily inspection reports, field notes, progress photographs, and supporting documentation Observe and document material deliveries, testing procedures, and installation methods Coordinate field activities with contractors, railroad personnel, flagging services, testing agencies, utilities, and third?party inspectors Identify non?conforming work, document deficiencies, and communicate corrective actions to the Resident Engineer or Construction Manager Track quantities, verify pay items, and assist with progress measurements and quantity documentation Participate in project meetings, safety briefings, coordination meetings, and client updates Support project closeout activities, including punch lists, final inspections, and documentation Provide technical guidance, oversight, and mentorship to inspectors and support inspection team coordination, as needed What You Need to Succeed A high school diploma or equivalent is required 10+ years of construction inspection experience supporting freight rail, commuter rail, light rail, or transit projects Demonstrated expertise in rail construction methods, field inspection practices, and quality control procedures Strong working knowledge of FRA, AREMA, and railroad or transit agency standards Proven experience interpreting construction plans, specifications, and contract documents Ability to work independently and lead or support inspection teams in active rail environments Strong communication skills with the ability to coordinate effectively with contractors, inspectors, railroad representatives, and project leadership Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety, quality, and compliance Additional technical training or rail?related certifications are a plus! Compensation: The approximate compensation range for this position is $41.21 - $55.60 per hour. This compensation range is a good-faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location. Why Choose Us Medical, dental, vision insurance 401k Retirement Plan Health Savings Account (HSA) Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Life, AD&D, short-term, and long-term disability Professional and personal development Generous paid time off Commuter and wellness benefits