Construction Jobs in Syracuse, NY

At McFarland Johnson (MJ), we?re more than infrastructure consultants ? we are a 100% employee-owned firm with 80 years of commitment to delivering innovative planning, engineering design, environmental services, technology, and construction solutions that make a lasting impact in the communities we serve.

We?re looking for an experienced Senior Construction Inspector to join our Aviation Division for seasonal construction assignments in the Capital Region of New York State.

The successful candidate will serve as MJ's primary on-site representative during construction of airport infrastructure improvement projects, providing construction observation, inspection, documentation, and day-to-day field coordination with Airport personnel, Contractors, and MJ's Project Managers.

Working under the direction of MJ's Project Manager, the Senior Construction Inspector will independently monitor construction activities, document daily progress, verify completed work quantities, coordinate with materials testing personnel, and help ensure construction is performed in accordance with approved plans, specifications, and applicable Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.

This position will primarily support FAA-funded airport improvement projects throughout NYSDOT Region 1, including the greater Albany Capital Region and surrounding areas. Projects may include runway and taxiway rehabilitation, airfield lighting and signage, grading, drainage improvements, utility installations, and other airport infrastructure improvements.

The ideal candidate is a dependable, self-motivated construction professional with strong field inspection experience, sound technical judgment, demonstrated computer proficiency, and the ability to work independently while maintaining effective communication with MJ's Project Managers.

Why Join Us?

• Career Growth: Accelerate your professional career with opportunities to lead, learn, and expand your expertise.
• Collaborative Culture: Work alongside multidisciplinary teams that thrive on creativity, support, and teamwork. Collaborative is the most frequent word used to describe MJ?s culture in annual employee survey.
• Employee Ownership: As a 100% ESOP, your contributions directly shape our shared success ? you own your future.
• Innovation & Impact: Work on projects that push boundaries, drive sustainability, and create real-world solutions.
• Professional Development: From mentorship, ongoing technical training, and conferences we invest in your growth every step of the way.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy flexible schedules, generous PTO, and a culture that values balance so you can thrive both professionally and personally.
• Shape the next generation: For experienced professionals, MJ offers the chance to mentor emerging talent, share your expertise, and leave a lasting legacy in the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Construction Observation and Inspection
• Serve as MJ's primary on-site representative during assigned airport construction projects.
• Independently observe and document construction activities to assess general conformance with approved contract documents, plans, specifications, and applicable FAA standards.
• Monitor construction operations, workmanship, materials, and installation methods.
• Observe construction activities involving asphalt and concrete pavement, earthwork, grading, drainage, underground utilities, airfield electrical systems, and related infrastructure.
• Verify completed construction quantities and maintain accurate measurements and records to support Contractor payment applications.
• Identify and promptly report potential construction deficiencies, discrepancies, and deviations from contract requirements to the Project Manager.
• Observe corrective work and document the resolution of identified deficiencies.
• Coordinate with materials testing agencies and observe quality assurance testing activities, including asphalt, concrete, and earthwork testing.
• Assist with construction inspections, punch list development, and project closeout activities.

Construction Documentation and Reporting

• Prepare accurate and detailed daily construction reports documenting Contractor activities, personnel, equipment, weather conditions, work progress, and significant project events.
• Maintain comprehensive photographic documentation of construction activities and completed work.
• Track construction progress, completed quantities, and relevant project milestones.
• Review material delivery records, certifications, testing reports, and other construction documentation as assigned.
• Maintain accurate quantity measurements and supporting documentation for Contractor payment applications.
• Assist with documenting construction delays, changed conditions, and potential contract modifications.
• Maintain organized electronic project records in accordance with MJ procedures and applicable FAA documentation requirements.
• Use computers, tablets, and electronic construction management systems daily to prepare inspection reports, record construction quantities, maintain project records, and communicate with project personnel.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and complete electronic construction documentation using MJ's designated software platforms and procedures.

Project Coordination and Communication

• Serve as MJ's primary on-site point of contact for day-to-day construction activities, coordinating with Airport Operations and Administrative personnel, Contractors, testing agencies, and other project stakeholders.
• Maintain regular communication with MJ's Project Manager regarding construction progress, field conditions, potential deficiencies, schedule impacts, and other project concerns.
• Coordinate daily construction activities with Airport Operations personnel to minimize disruptions to airport operations.
• Participate in construction progress meetings and provide updates regarding observed work, completed quantities, testing activities, and outstanding construction issues.
• Assist with coordinating construction schedules, work area access, operational restrictions, planned closures, and upcoming construction activities.
• Proactively identify and communicate construction-related issues, field conditions, and potential conflicts to MJ's Project Manager.
• Maintain effective working relationships with Airport Owners, Contractors, and other project stakeholders throughout construction.
• Exercise sound judgment in the field and promptly elevate issues requiring technical interpretation, contractual decisions, or project management direction.

FAA Compliance and Construction Safety

• Observe construction activities for consistency with applicable FAA Advisory Circulars, project specifications, and approved construction safety requirements.
• Observe and document Contractor compliance with the approved Construction Safety and Phasing Plan (CSPP) and Safety Plan Compliance Document (SPCD), as applicable.
• Identify and promptly report observed construction safety concerns and potential impacts to airport operations.
• Coordinate with Airport Operations personnel regarding work area access, aircraft movement restrictions, temporary closures, and construction activities within active airport environments.
• Assist with monitoring construction phasing and operational restrictions established to maintain airport safety during construction.
• Ability to successfully complete required background checks and security screening to obtain and maintain airport-issued security identification badges and access credentials, as required for assigned projects.
• Obtain and maintain required airport security credentials, airfield access authorization, and airfield driving privileges, as applicable to assigned projects.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional education in Civil Engineering Technology, Construction Management, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in construction inspection, construction administration, or civil infrastructure construction.
• Strong working knowledge of civil construction practices, including earthwork, pavement construction, drainage systems, and underground utilities.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering plans, construction specifications, and contract documents.
• Demonstrated ability to independently observe construction activities, identify potential deficiencies, and maintain accurate field records.
• Ability to work independently as the primary on-site representative while maintaining effective communication with off-site project management personnel.
• Strong attention to detail, particularly in construction documentation, quantity verification, and project recordkeeping.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work professionally with Contractors, engineers, and Airport personnel.
• Demonstrated proficiency using computers and digital technology, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and electronic document management systems.
• Ability to independently prepare electronic daily reports, maintain spreadsheets, manage digital photographs and project files, and communicate using email.
• Willingness and ability to learn and consistently use new construction inspection software and electronic documentation systems.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to airport construction sites throughout the Capital Region of New York State.
• Ability to successfully complete required background checks and security screening to obtain and maintain airport-issued security identification badges and access credentials, as required for assigned projects.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and navigate active construction sites.

Preferred Qualifications

• 7?10 years of relevant construction inspection experience, particularly on transportation or airport infrastructure projects.
• Previous experience serving as a Senior Construction Inspector, Resident Project Representative, or similar field inspection position.
• Experience with FAA-funded airport construction projects or other federally funded transportation infrastructure projects.
• Familiarity with FAA Advisory Circulars, particularly AC 150/5370-10 (Standards for Specifying Construction of Airports) and AC 150/5370-2 (Operational Safety on Airports During Construction).
• Knowledge of FAA construction documentation, material testing, and quality assurance requirements.
• Experience inspecting asphalt pavement, concrete pavement, grading, drainage, or airfield electrical installations.
• Familiarity with NYSDOT construction specifications, inspection practices, and documentation procedures.
• Experience with construction quantity tracking, payment application documentation, and change order support.
• Experience with construction inspection and project management software, such as Appia, Autodesk Forma, or similar platforms.
• Relevant construction inspection certifications, including NICET, ACI, or equivalent credentials.

Work Environment and Schedule

This is a seasonal, field-based position supporting airport construction projects throughout the Capital Region of New York State.

Employment and work assignments will be based on the duration and scheduling of active construction projects.

The position may require:

• Full-time work during active construction assignments, with schedules varying based on project needs.
• Extended working hours, including overtime, during critical construction activities.
• Night shifts, weekends, and occasional holiday work depending on airport operational restrictions and construction schedules.
• Work in active airport environments, including airside construction areas.
• Travel between airport project sites throughout the Capital Region and surrounding areas.
• Outdoor work in varying weather conditions and exposure to typical construction site conditions.

Overtime compensation will be provided in accordance with applicable law.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation: $45?$55/per hour, commensurate with qualifications and experience, plus a performance-based incentive/bonus plan.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision coverage.
• Generous Paid Time Off, including Parental Leave.
• Company-funded ESOP + 401(k) employer match.
• Ongoing technical training and professional development opportunities.

Join Us and Make a Difference

Join a team where your work has purpose, your ideas are valued, and your growth is personal. Apply today and become a part of a company where you can #ownyourfuture.