Transportation Vehicle, Equipment and Systems Inspectors, Except Aviation
Inspect and monitor transportation equipment, vehicles, or systems to ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards.
SOC: 53-6051.07
Common Job Titles
Carman
Inspector
Smog Technician
Transit Vehicle Inspector
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate transportation vehicles, equipment, and systems against federal and state safety regulations using diagnostic equipment and measurement tools to ensure compliance with standards.
Proficient
MindsetUphold public safety standards and regulatory enforcement responsibilities when making compliance determinations that impact transportation operations.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform detailed mechanical inspections of vehicle components, including brakes, tires, and structural elements using precision measurement instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze vehicle diagnostic data and test results using OBD scanners and exhaust analyzers to identify safety violations and mechanical defects.
Developing
Hands-onOperate specialized inspection equipment including dynamometers, wheel alignment gauges, and hydraulic lifts following standardized testing protocols under time constraints.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret technical specifications and regulatory requirements for transportation equipment referencing federal motor carrier safety regulations and manufacturer standards.
Developing
MindsetEngage with vehicle operators and fleet managers regarding inspection findings and compliance issues communicating technical deficiencies clearly and professionally.
Developing
KnowledgeApply troubleshooting procedures to diagnose mechanical and electrical system failures in field inspection environments with limited resources.
Developing
Hands-onExecute roadside vehicle inspections and compliance checks working independently in various weather conditions and traffic environments.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain inspection results, safety violations, and corrective action requirements documenting findings in inspection databases and enforcement systems.
Developing
KnowledgeCompare vehicle condition data with historical inspection records using inspection databases and vehicle identification systems to identify patterns of non-compliance.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate measurement tools and testing devices to assess equipment tolerances and performance specifications achieving precise readings for brake performance, emission levels, and structural integrity.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Transportation Vehicle, Equipment and Systems Inspectors, Except Aviation (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
Mechanical4.0/5
Transportation3.3/5
English Language3.2/5
Public Safety and Security3.0/5
Administration and Management3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft Outlook
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word
Structured query language SQL
Technology Skills
ASPEN
Commercial driver's license information system CDLIS
