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.
SOC: 53-6051.00
Common Job Titles
Cargo Surveyor
Marine Cargo Surveyor
Marine Surveyor
Petroleum Inspector
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onInspect transportation equipment, structures, and cargo materials using precision measurement tools and digital imaging equipment in field and terminal environments.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate equipment conditions and cargo specifications for compliance with federal and state transportation regulations independently making determinations that affect public safety.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate public safety priorities with operational efficiency requirements when communicating findings to carriers, operators, and regulatory agencies.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply transportation laws, mechanical principles, and engineering standards to evaluate the airworthiness, seaworthiness, or roadworthiness of vehicles and equipment.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret technical documentation, maintenance records, and certification requirements to determine compliance status during on-site inspections.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess mechanical systems, cargo loading procedures, and structural integrity of transportation assets in diverse settings including rail yards, marine terminals, and roadway checkpoints.
Proficient
KnowledgeExplain inspection findings, regulatory requirements, and enforcement actions through written reports and verbal communication with diverse stakeholders.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze inspection data and quantifiable characteristics of transportation materials using measuring instruments and sampling equipment to identify safety hazards.
Developing
Hands-onOperate digital measurement devices, calibrated scales, and portable diagnostic equipment following standardized inspection protocols under time constraints.
Developing
MindsetEngage with transportation personnel and management to explain violations, negotiate corrective actions, and promote safety culture.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Transportation Inspectors (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
23,320
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $40,090. 25th percentile: U.S. $58,650. 50th percentile: U.S. $85,750. 75th percentile: U.S. $105,020. 90th percentile: U.S. $137,120. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$40,090
10% of workers earn the following or more
$137,120
Workers on average earn
$86,490
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Transportation3.9/5
English Language3.8/5
Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
Mathematics3.2/5
Public Safety and Security3.2/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
