High Voltage Substation Inspector

WSP is currently initiating a search for a High Voltage Transmission Line Inspector for our Power Constructors, Inc. (PCI) sector to work in the Portland, Oregon vicinity. This position will have the ability to work remotely from any mutually acceptable location. This position may be up to 100% travel. Be involved in projects with our PCI Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges.

WSP brings global expertise in power delivery, power generation, and program management—anchored by the acquisition of POWER Engineers, Inc. TRC Companies have now joined WSP, deepening our power practice and expanding our energy advisory and intelligent grid services. We're partnering with clients to shape how energy systems evolve around the world—and we need your help.

This Opportunity

Provides inspection support to engineers and project managers to ensure construction compliance with plans, specifications, contract documents, and codified requirements.  Responsibilities involve performing field inspections on various assigned construction projects of moderate scale, scope, and/or complexity, including examining and evaluating the placement of concrete, installation of underground pipelines, earthwork and roadway paving, buildings, structures, systems, building materials, mechanical and electrical installations, foundations, and environment.  Generates accurate and concise documentation regarding assigned aspects of the project.  Ensures that responsibilities are delivered and adhered to with a level of quality that meets or exceeds acceptable industry standards for design, safety, functionality, and sustainability.

Your Impact

• Collect, compile, and analyze data from the physical work site, surveys, structural plans, blueprints, schematics, data, technical drawings, flow diagrams, material sampling, computer-generated reports, and other matrices for single, multi-phase, or multi-site field inspection activities.    
• Use survey instruments, metering devices, and test equipment to perform inspections on projects of moderate complexity and/or scope, including proposed and existing site conditions, equipment, construction, materials, controls, resources, layout, alignment, and elevation to determine conformance with applicable rules, standards, codes, and construction or operating permits.
• Follow standard practices to provide technical assistance and guidance that accounts for the proper inspection, construction, and functioning of buildings, highways, roads, bridges, materials, structures, infrastructure, equipment, and/or mechanical systems according to design standard specifications.
• Act as consultant regarding work progress and problem resolution; may serve as the only inspector on a construction project or assist in overseeing construction inspection activities for projects of a moderate scope and complexity within a district.
• Verify load calculations, change orders, interpretation of contract plans and specifications; resolving differences in interpretation of plans and specifications.
• Monitor project phasing plans and contractors' work to ensure quality control and contract compliance; documenting work progress and issues arising throughout scope of project.
• Work with cross-functional teams in executing project work.
• Attend pre-construction meetings and answer questions from contractors and other attendees.
• Assist with calculating payments due to contractors for work completed.
• Write technical reports summarizing inspection findings and conclusions; generating complete, accurate, and concise documentation using photographs, sketches, calculations, software, spreadsheets, technical drawings, flow diagrams, 2D/3D illustrations, and reports.
• Assist technical staff, project managers, and contractors with risk identification and assessment, offering input, analysis, escalation, or resolution with construction, mitigation, and improvement activities for more intricate and involved construction or engineering problems.
• Assist with work plan preparation and coordination of any field/site work, reviewing staffing, and equipment utilization data and time/cost estimates.
• Provide guidance and training to entry-level inspection staff.
• Engage in contact with client and contractor personnel to schedule and coordinate project inspection.
• Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma, equivalent diploma, or demonstrated proven equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 9 years of relevant post education experience in discipline with prior construction inspection experience.
• Have computer skills (to properly fill out daily and weekly reports) and also be capable of photo documentation with working knowledge of Word and Excel.
• Essential professional licensure/certification(s).
• Valid state driver’s license.
• Able to pass a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) background check.
• Well-defined knowledge of construction inspection principles, field inspection practices, process, methods and techniques.
• Well-defined knowledge of relevant construction codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
• Analytical mindset with an ability to exercise sound judgement in evaluating situations and making decisions.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to a technical and non-technical audience.
• Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, accuracy, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
• Ability to learn new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, follow instruction, and comply with company policies.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
• Highly proficient with technical writing, office automation, software, technology, math principles, spreadsheets, and tools.
• Competent critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to apply technical knowledge to reach conclusions from inspection and testing results, data collation, load calculations, statistical analysis and arriving at the most effective, economical, and logical solution.
• Ability to direct others in the field such as subcontractors and junior-level staff to consistently complete tasks safely, efficiently, and accurately according to specifications.
• Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP’s health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
• Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
• Travel will be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in closely related discipline is preferred.
• Knowledge of transmission line work, foundations and stringing of conductors, and transmission substations and facilities.

Physical Requirements included but not limited to:

• This job may require you to work up to 12 hour days, 5 to 6 days a week if project requires.
• Able and willing to travel and stay for a minimum of 6 weeks at a time for a project.
• Must be able to work in extreme weather conditions for up to 12 hours a day.
• Must be able to wear company-provided PPE for the entire shift while onsite.
• Able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs or more at any given time throughout the day.
• Must be able to walk on average 3 to 5 miles per day across rough terrain and/or unlevel surfaces.
• Ability to step in and out of a 3/4-ton pickup truck several times a day.