Special Inspector - ICC Soils at KS Engineers PC – New York, New York

KS Engineers (KSE) is a mid-size engineering and surveying firm ranked among the leaders in design services. With seven offices across New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut, we have been delivering transportation and public infrastructure design and survey services for more than 35 years. KSE offers a full range of employee benefits, including medical, dental and vision insurances, a 401(k) plan, paid time off, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), long- and short-term disabilities, and term life insurance. KSE is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Position – Special Inspector - ICC Soils

Reports to: Manager – Special Inspections

Job Summary:

A Soils Special Inspector in New York City is responsible for ensuring that earthwork, foundations, and soil compaction comply with the NYC Building Code (Chapter 17) and the project’s specific geotechnical report. This role is a "field-heavy" position that requires high technical accuracy to ensure the structural stability of New York’s high-density developments.

The Soils Special Inspector performs mandated third-party inspections and testing of soil conditions, fill placement, and foundation elements. You will verify that the subsurface work matches the approved architectural/engineering plans and the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) Technical Reports (TR1).

Technical Responsibilities:

- Site Preparation & Subgrade Inspection: Verify that the site is stripped of organic matter and prepared according to the Geotechnical Report (BC 1704.7.1) before footings or fill are placed.

- Fill Placement Monitoring: Oversee the placement of structural fill, ensuring lift thicknesses do not exceed code limits (typically 8–12 inches) and that the material matches specified classifications (BC 1704.7.2).

- In-Place Density Testing: Perform field density tests using a Nuclear Moisture-Density Gauge (Troxler/Humboldt) to ensure soil reaches the required compaction percentage (usually 95% Modified Proctor).

- Foundation Oversight: Inspect excavations for shallow foundations (spread footings) and deep foundations (piles, caissons, or helical piers) to confirm bearing capacity and depth (BC 1704.8/1704.9).

- Reporting: Prepare and submit Daily Field Reports (DFRs). Identify non-conformance issues (NCRs), document them with photos, and verify when they have been corrected and re-tested.

- Safety Compliance: Maintain a safe work environment in active excavation zones, adhering to OSHA standards and NYC DOB site safety protocols.

Technical Skills:

- Ability to read and interpret complex Foundation Plans, Borings Logs, and Geotechnical Reports.

- Proficiency in field testing equipment (Sand cone, Nuclear gauge, Dynamic Cone Penetrometer).

- Strong documentation skills using field apps (like PlanGrid, Procore, or Metafield).

Education and Experience:

- Entry-Level (1-3 years) or Mid-Level (4-9 years) in inspecting construction work in the city of NY, varied in size and complexity.

- Bachelor’s Degree in Geotechnical, Civil, or Structural Engineering with 1 year of relevant experience; OR NICET Level 1 Geotechnical Certification with 2 years of relevant experience OR ICC Soils Special Inspector certification with 1 year of relevant experience.

- ICC Soils

- Nuclear Gauge Safety Certification (U.S. Dept. of Transportation)

- OSHA 30

- Familiarity with soil sampling and testing as per requirements of Chapter 17 of the NYC building code.

Professional Development:

- Willing to pursue professional development, training, and licensing.

Physical requirements:

- Handle, inspect, and /or feel materials and/or equipment relevant to the job.

- Move around on the jobsite, including ascending or descending on the landscape or usage of scaffolding or on a ladder, and positioning oneself appropriately to assess necessary testing materials and equipment, usually for prolonged periods of time.

- Lift and/or move up to 50lbs for some types of monitoring and inspections.

Salary range:

$28-45 per hour based on experience

KS Engineers, P.C. is an EOE/AA/VEV/Disabled Employer. KSE will not discriminate based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, citizenship status, or other status protected by law.