State Infrastructure Quality Assessor in Kansas Career Overview
As a State Infrastructure Quality Assessor, you play a vital role in ensuring the safety, functionality, and quality of public infrastructure projects across Kansas. Your primary responsibilities include:
Evaluation of Infrastructure: You assess roads, bridges, wastewater systems, and other critical infrastructure components to determine their condition and compliance with federal and state standards.
Regulatory Compliance: You ensure that all infrastructure projects adhere to established regulations and guidelines, thereby helping to mitigate risks associated with infrastructure failure.
Report Generation: You compile detailed assessments and reports that provide insights into infrastructure performance, maintenance needs, and potential areas of improvement.
Collaboration: You work closely with engineers, project managers, and government agencies to promote best practices in infrastructure development, maintenance, and assessment.
Public Safety: Your evaluations contribute directly to public safety by identifying potential hazards and recommending timely repairs or upgrades to prevent accidents and infrastructure failures.
Resource Allocation: By identifying priority areas for infrastructure investment, you assist state and local governments in making informed decisions about resource allocation.
In this role, your expertise not only enhances the quality of infrastructure but also supports sustainable development within the state, ultimately benefiting the community at large.
State Infrastructure Quality Assessor Salary in Kansas
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a State Infrastructure Quality Assessor in Kansas
To pursue a career as a State Infrastructure Quality Assessor in Kansas, you'll need the following educational qualifications and training:
Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is typically required. The following degree programs are most relevant:
- Civil Engineering: This program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects, providing a solid foundation in engineering principles.
- Construction Engineering: This specialization combines civil engineering with project management, emphasizing the application of engineering techniques in construction projects.
- Construction Management: A degree in this field trains you to manage construction projects while considering budget, schedule, and scope, essential for assessing project quality.
- Engineering: General engineering programs cover a broad range of engineering principles and can serve as a pathway into various related fields.
- Engineering Technology: This program focuses on the practical application of engineering principles and technology in the infrastructure sector.
Relevant Coursework: Within these programs, seek out courses in structural analysis, materials science, project management, and quality control, as these will provide important knowledge applicable to infrastructure assessments.
Internships/Co-ops: Gaining practical experience through internships or cooperative education programs while pursuing your degree is important. These experiences enhance your understanding of infrastructure projects and quality assessment practices.
Licensure and Certification: While not always mandatory, obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license might be beneficial. This typically requires passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam after graduation, followed by a specified amount of professional experience and passing the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
Consider additional training or certification in quality assurance or related fields to further enhance your qualifications.
Best Schools to become a State Infrastructure Quality Assessor in Kansas 2024
University of California-Berkeley
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Texas A & M University-College Station
California State Polytechnic University-Pomona
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Investigate or inspect government property to ensure compliance with contract agreements and government regulations.
State Infrastructure Quality Assessor Required Skills and Competencies in Kansas
Analytical Thinking: You will need to analyze complex data and systems to evaluate the quality of infrastructure. Being able to identify patterns, draw conclusions, and make informed judgments based on your assessments is essential.
Attention to Detail: Thoroughness is vital in assessing infrastructure. You should be able to spot inconsistencies, defects, and areas for improvement that others may overlook.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with engineering principles, construction standards, and quality management systems will aid in your assessments. Staying updated on technology and tools relevant to infrastructure evaluation is also important.
Problem-Solving Skills: Your ability to troubleshoot issues and recommend effective solutions will be critical when assessing infrastructure quality.
Communication Skills: Clear and concise communication is necessary for both reporting findings and collaborating with stakeholders. You must be able to convey technical information to a non-technical audience effectively.
Project Management: Understanding project management principles can help in organizing assessments and ensuring that timelines and quality benchmarks are met.
Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulations related to infrastructure can enhance your assessments and ensure compliance.
Data Analysis Skills: Proficiency in using statistical and analytical software tools to interpret data will strengthen your ability to evaluate infrastructure quality.
Field Inspection Skills: Practical experience in conducting on-site evaluations will enhance your assessments. This includes understanding safety practices and regulatory requirements during inspections.
Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport with team members, contractors, and public officials is important for effective collaboration and ensures that your assessments are taken seriously.
Adaptability: The ability to adjust to changing environments and new challenges is vital in the ever-evolving landscape of state infrastructure.
Ethical Judgment: High ethical standards are necessary, as your assessments can impact public safety and resource allocation. You must prioritize transparency and integrity in your evaluations.
Job Duties for State Infrastructure Quality Assessors
Examine records, reports, or other documents to establish facts or detect discrepancies.
Inspect government property, such as construction sites or public housing, to ensure compliance with contract specifications or legal requirements.
Prepare correspondence, reports of inspections or investigations, or recommendations for action.
Data base user interface and query software
- Database software
- Microsoft Access
Inventory management software
- Inventory control system software
- Plant Clearance Automated Reutilization Screening System PCARSS
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Reading work related information
People and Technology Systems
- Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for State Infrastructure Quality Assessor in Kansas
The job market for State Infrastructure Quality Assessors in Kansas is characterized by steady demand and promising growth potential. As infrastructure projects receive increasing attention from both state and local governments, the need for qualified assessors to evaluate and ensure the quality and safety of these projects has become essential.
Current Demand: With significant state investments in infrastructure, including transportation networks, water systems, and public facilities, the demand for professionals in this field remains strong. State and local agencies are actively seeking qualified assessors to manage and oversee the integrity of various projects.
Growth Potential: The infrastructure sector is expected to expand substantially over the next few years, driven by increased funding from state and federal sources. This growth may lead to a surge in job openings for State Infrastructure Quality Assessors. Continuous improvements in technology and methodologies will also require skilled assessors to implement and adapt to new standards.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Kansas City Metro Area: This region, with its diverse array of infrastructure projects, sees a high concentration of opportunities. Collaboration between urban planners and assessors is frequent as the city undertakes various initiatives to enhance infrastructure quality.
- Wichita: As a hub for manufacturing and transportation, Wichita is investing heavily in infrastructure upgrades. The demand for assessors is particularly notable as new projects and refurbishments are planned to support economic growth.
- Topeka: State government buildings and transportation infrastructures are under continuous assessment and improvement, leading to openings for quality assessors in the capital region.
- Smaller Towns and Rural Areas: As part of infrastructure development initiatives, smaller towns are also presenting opportunities for assessors. These regions often seek professionals to help manage local infrastructure projects funded by state programs.
The combination of these factors indicates a robust job market for State Infrastructure Quality Assessors in Kansas, creating a variety of opportunities across different regions.
Top Related Careers to State Infrastructure Quality Assessor 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a State Infrastructure Quality Assessor in Kansas
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
- Website: www.asce.org
- Offers reports, guidelines, and standards for civil engineering, infrastructure assessment, and quality management.
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
- Website: www.nist.gov
- Provides research and resources on measurement science, standards, and technology, including quality assessment practices.
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
- Website: www.fhwa.dot.gov
- A valuable resource for information about highway and infrastructure quality assessment as well as policies and funding opportunities.
Institute for Transportation Engineers (ITE)
- Website: www.ite.org
- Features resources related to transportation engineering, including best practices for infrastructure assessment and planning.
Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT)
- Website: www.ksdot.org
- Provides specific information and resources related to infrastructure projects, assessments, and standards in Kansas.
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
- Website: www.nationalacademies.org
- Publishes a variety of studies and reports on infrastructure quality and performance measures that can inform assessment practices.
American Public Works Association (APWA)
- Website: www.apwa.net
- Offers training, certifications, and resources for public works professionals, including infrastructure assessment methodologies.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Website: www.epa.gov
- Contains guidelines and resources on environmental assessments and sustainability which intersect with infrastructure quality assessments.
Center for Infrastructure Renewal (CIR)
- Website: circuit.tamu.edu
- Focuses on advancing infrastructure renewal through research and collaboration, providing resources relevant to quality assessment.
National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP)
- Website: www.trb.org/NCHRP
- A source of research findings and recommendations for highway-related practices, including assessment and quality management.
These resources will enhance your knowledge and provide you with the tools necessary for a successful career as a State Infrastructure Quality Assessor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About State Infrastructure Quality Assessor in Kansas
What is the role of a State Infrastructure Quality Assessor?
A State Infrastructure Quality Assessor evaluates the condition and performance of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, water supply systems, and public facilities. You will inspect, analyze, and report on various infrastructures to ensure they meet safety and quality standards.What qualifications do I need to become a State Infrastructure Quality Assessor in Kansas?
Typically, a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field is required. Relevant certifications, such as Professional Engineer (PE) or similar credentials, may enhance your competitiveness.What skills are important for this career?
Key skills include analytical thinking, attention to detail, strong communication abilities, and proficiency in using various assessment tools. Familiarity with federal, state, and local safety regulations is also essential.What is the job outlook for State Infrastructure Quality Assessors in Kansas?
The demand for infrastructure assessors is expected to remain strong, driven by ongoing infrastructure projects and the necessity for maintenance and upgrades. Job growth can vary depending on government budgets and infrastructure initiatives.What types of projects will I work on?
You may work on a variety of projects, including highway expansions, bridge repairs, water treatment facilities, and public transportation systems. Your role will most often involve collaboration with engineers and construction teams.Do I need any special certifications?
While not always mandatory, obtaining certifications such as the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or the Project Management Professional (PMP) can help advance your career and increase your qualifications.What are the working conditions like?
As an assessor, expect a mix of office and fieldwork. You will spend time inspecting sites, which may involve working in various weather conditions or remote locations, alongside standard office tasks like report writing and data analysis.Can I advance my career in this field?
Yes, there are opportunities for advancement. With experience and additional education or certifications, you can move into higher-level positions such as Infrastructure Manager or Director of Public Works.Is travel required for this position?
Travel may be necessary, particularly if projects are located outside your immediate area. The frequency and extent of travel will depend on your specific job duties and the projects you oversee.What is the typical salary range for a State Infrastructure Quality Assessor in Kansas?
Salaries can vary widely based on experience, education, and location. On average, you may expect a salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, with potential for higher earnings in more senior roles.What types of employers hire State Infrastructure Quality Assessors?
Employers typically include state and local government agencies, private engineering firms, construction companies, and infrastructure consulting firms.How can I find job openings for this career?
Job openings can be found on state government websites, job boards, and professional organizations related to engineering and infrastructure. Networking within industry associations can also uncover opportunities.