CEI Inspector Trainee - 2026

At Mott MacDonald, we trust our brilliant people to do brilliant things in engineering, management, and development services, supporting multisector project work in over 150 countries. As one of the largest employee-owned companies in the world, we pride ourselves on our ability to deliver exceptional outcomes through our network of 20,000+ talented consultants. With sustainability and innovation at the heart of all our sectors in North America, including, Buildings, Energy, Transportation, and Water.

We believe in empowering our people to excel, learn, and grow, offering diverse opportunities to contribute to career-defining work. Join us and be part of a collaborative environment where your ambitions are united with ours, and you can truly shape your story.

If you share that vision, even if you don’t meet every requirement listed, we’d still love to hear from you. We value potential and diverse perspectives as much as experience. Let’s explore how we can support your growth and help you take the next step in your career, while contributing to an exciting new chapter for Mott MacDonald in North America.

We are seeking an entry-level Engineering Technician I Trainee to support Construction Engineering & Inspection (CEI) services on highway and bridge projects in Western North Carolina (Asheville, Waynesville, Hendersonville, Sylva, etc.) and the Charlotte, NC region (including surrounding areas).

This position is part of a structured Engineering Technician I Trainee Program, which typically spans up to 24 months. Upon successful completion of the program and required certifications, the trainee could advance into a CEI Inspector role.

This position is designed for individuals with no prior inspection experience who are interested in starting a career in transportation construction. The selected candidate will work under the guidance of senior inspectors and engineers while completing required training and certifications.

Duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Traveling to project sites to assist with inspection and basic field testing activities
• Learning NCDOT procedures for inspection, documentation, and materials tracking
• Assisting with reviewing construction plans and specifications under supervision
• Recording daily field activities, quantities, and basic measurements
• Supporting documentation efforts, including daily diaries and material reports
• Assisting with measuring and tracking materials such as concrete, asphalt, and earthwork
• Using company vehicles, computers, and field equipment
• Communicating with inspectors, contractors, and project team members
• Reporting construction progress and any observed issues to senior staff
• Working outdoors in varying weather conditions as required by project needs

CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION

We are looking for candidates who are motivated to learn and grow in the construction field:

• No prior experience required (0–2 years preferred but not required)
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Willingness and ability to complete NCDOT Engineering Technician I Trainee Program requirements
• Valid driver’s license
• Basic computer skills (email, data entry, etc.)
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions
• Effective communication skills (verbal and written)
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as needed

Preferred (not required):

• Any construction, labor, or outdoor work experience
• Interest in transportation, construction, or engineering careers

CERTIFICATIONS / TRAINING
Certifications (such as NCDOT and OSHA) are not required at time of hire. The selected candidate will be expected to obtain required certifications within a reasonable timeframe as part of the Engineering Technician I Trainee Program (training support provided).

This position is located in Charlotte, NC or Western North Carlina (Asheville, Waynesville, Hendersonville, Sylva, etc.). You must be able to reliably commute to our office in this location, per our hybrid working policy.

We’re more than engineers - we’re changemakers. At Mott MacDonald, you’ll find:

• Best in class learning and development initiatives
• Dedicated mentorship program
• Network of Employee Resource Groups
• Opportunities for excellence everyday

We welcome individuals who are driven by curiosity, compassion, and a desire to make a difference. If you’re excited by the idea of working in an engineering consultant that values your growth and empowers you to lead with integrity, we’d love to hear from you.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US, as Mott MacDonald is unable to provide sponsorship at this time.

Benefits & Reward

At Mott MacDonald, our employees have a stake and a voice in our business, providing them with a direct connection to our success through our personal and group performance bonuses. We provide a comprehensive benefit package that includes 401k, medical, dental and vision insurance, short-term/long-term disability, paid holidays, PTO, parental leave, and company paid life insurance.

Individual pay is determined based on several factors such as work location, education, experience, and unique skills.

Collaboration at Our Core
At Mott MacDonald, we believe great ideas happen when we’re together. Our hybrid approach centers on an in-office culture, with most of your time spent collaborating face-to-face and a minimum of three days per week in the office. We balance flexibility with connection, so you and your manager can choose how to meet client, team, and personal commitments.

Equal opportunity is the law.

We seek to promote fair employment procedures and practices to ensure equal opportunities for all. We encourage individual expression in our workplace and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels they have the opportunity to contribute.

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All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, creed, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship status or disability status.