Construction Inspector

Your Next Career Move Starts at HWA GeoSciences Inc!

At HWA GeoSciences we get excited about providing smart geotechnical solutions for our communities and our planet! Located in Bothell, Washington, HWA is a geotechnical and environmental firm providing leading geo-environmental and geotechnical consulting services. Our work is exceptional, we delight our clients, and we get to play in the dirt and have a lot of fun while we grow our business. We are passionate about what we do, foster a culture of teamwork and growth, and we positively impact the earth each day.

We also love coming up with creative and smart solutions to gnarly problems that hinder our state’s infrastructure, stability, and environmental impact and we currently have full-time opportunities for experienced Construction Inspectors.

The Construction Inspector position plays a crucial role in conducting various operations in the field, primarily for construction materials observation and testing, supporting projects across all departments of HWA. This role requires excellent communication skills, strong technical writing ability, the ability to work in various weather conditions, and coordination with clients, staff, and contractors.

Here’s what you’ll be doing:

• Field and laboratory work, often a blend of the two
• Construction inspection and materials testing (soils/aggregate, concrete, and asphalt) for public works and private development projects across the Puget Sound region
• Prepare clear and intelligible handwritten and computer-rendered reports of field observations  
• Exploration for upcoming work, including geotechnical drilling, hand auger, Drop weight Cone Penetrometer (DCP), inclinometer, and geologic mapping  
• Landslide observation and mapping  
• Aerial drone imagery/mapping
• Seismic data collection
• Environmental sampling during construction  
• Infiltration testing for stormwater design
• Assist other HWA groups (geotechnical, environmental, pavement, laboratory) as needed 

Here’s what we’re looking for:

• Minimum of 2-4 years soil and asphalt construction inspection and testing experience (required)
• Degree in Geology or Civil Engineering (preferred) 
• Knowledge of current WSDOT Standard Specifications (preferred)
• Knowledge of Materials Section of WSDOT Construction Manual (preferred)
• Reliable, punctual, attention to detail
• Washington State Driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Ability to use computer software, including MS Office Suite
• Comfortable working in the field year-round in various weather
• Willing to work at distant site locations, if needed, for multiple days (rare)
• Ability to move boxes and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds, in the field, on uneven ground 
• 40-hour HAZWOPER training is a plus 
• Geologic knowledge of the Puget Sound area is not required but is a bonus
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills 
• Comfortable being out on construction and drilling sites, coordinating with clients, staff, and contractors (in various weather/terrain) 
• Works on multiple projects of moderate size or portions of major projects  
• Ability to read construction plans/specifications  
• Problem solving skills in the field and office (maintaining/troubleshooting/repairing equipment)  
• Ability to use pdf editors (BlueBeam/Acrobat) for field reports is a plus (can learn on the job)

Here are some other things to know:

• Starting compensation for this role is $80,000 - $95,000 per year, based on your experience and qualifications
• This is a full-time role
• Monday to Friday is the typical workweek, however construction needs sometimes dictate night and weekend work, especially during summer months
• Work is performed in-person, onsite at HWA and in the field both indoors and outside, at times during adverse weather conditions   
• The position may require overtime, night, and weekend work as needed.   
• Site conditions often include large, moving/rotating, loud machinery  
• Transportation to other work locations is occasionally required using a company or personal vehicle with a valid Washington State license and insurance   
• Work periodically requires remaining in a stationary position (i.e., sitting or standing) for prolonged periods of time   
• Office environment work may include focusing/concentrating on work tasks in an open environment with conversation and office noise present; operating a computer and other office equipment such as a copier, printer, and calculator; exchanging information and ideas with others for accuracy and understanding (i.e., writing, speaking, listening); and observing information at close range for extended periods of time (i.e., looking at a computer and reading reports)   
• Work in the field may include working during adverse weather (e.g., rain, snow, hot/cold temperatures); handling contaminated materials; carrying various equipment to/within jobsite; lifting items weighing up to 50 pounds; walking long distances, often on uneven terrain; using hand tools and other equipment; and troubleshooting equipment issues 

Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love working at HWA:

Amazing people – We are passionate about the environment and geotechnical engineering, and we positively impact the earth each day.

Positive and relaxed environment – Fun work events, professional mentoring, training and professional educational hours with support to work toward ASBOG licensure from the National Association of State Boards of Geology, and a flexible work schedule with a focus on work/life balance.

Great location – Just off I-405 in Bothell, we have plenty of free parking and are surrounded by trees, trails, and greenspaces.

Robust benefits – Three medical plan options (including an HSA option), prescription, vision, dental, life and AD&D insurance, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance program, caregiver concierge, a 401(K) retirement savings plan with a generous employer matching contribution, and paid time off that includes holidays, vacation, and sick leave to balance work and life, and more!

If you’re excited by this opportunity and have what we’re looking for, we want to meet you!

Please send your resume and cover letter to contactus@hwageo.com.