Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Transportation Inspector is responsible for ensuring the safety and compliance of various modes of transportation, including rail, road, air, and sea transport. They inspect vehicles, equipment, and systems to ensure they meet regulatory standards and safety guidelines.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Moderate-term
Projected Growth: 2.7% (average)
Annual job openings: 2,500
Direct AI exposure: 6% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 58% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $92K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $40K per year | $59K per year | $92K per year | $109K per year | $139K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $41K above the national average. | ||||
Transportation Inspectors work in diverse environments, from airports and seaports to railway stations and trucking depots. The job often involves on-site inspections and can require travel to different locations. Working conditions vary greatly depending on the mode of transportation being inspected.
Transportation Inspectors play a critical role in maintaining public safety and confidence in transportation systems. Their work involves not only physical inspections of vehicles and equipment but also a review of procedural and operational practices. Inspectors must be knowledgeable about current safety standards, transportation regulations, and inspection techniques. They often use specialized tools and technology to conduct thorough inspections and assess compliance.
Effective communication skills are essential, as inspectors need to convey their findings to transportation operators, regulatory bodies, and occasionally to the public. Inspectors must also keep detailed records of their inspections and any findings or recommendations they make. In the event of an incident, inspectors may be involved in the investigation, requiring a keen eye for detail and analytical thinking.
The job requires staying up-to-date with technological advancements in transportation and adapting to new inspection methods and regulations. Ongoing training and professional development are often part of the career path.
Typically, a high school diploma is required, along with specialized training in transportation safety and inspection. Some positions, especially in aviation or advanced transportation systems, might require higher education or specific certification.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
