NICET Level I – Highway Construction Inspection Preparatory Course  

NICET Transportation -  (Highway construction inspection) 

NICET Level I – Highway Construction Inspection Preparatory Course  

(FREE 8 day workshop) 

NICET Highway Construction Inspection Level I is an entry-level certification designed for individuals starting their careers in highway construction inspection. It demonstrates foundational knowledge in monitoring, documenting, and reporting construction activities according to relevant industry standards. The certification ensures that inspectors have the essential skills to assist in the construction and inspection of highways, bridges, and related infrastructure projects. 

Scope of Highway Construction Inspection Level I Certification 

At Level I, the focus is on fundamental tasks that support more experienced inspectors. Certified individuals typically work under supervision, learning on-site procedures and gaining field experience. Tasks include: 

• Observation and Documentation: Recording daily construction activities, weather conditions, and equipment usage. 
• Measurement and Verification: Confirming materials and quantities meet project plans and specifications. 
• Safety Practices: Understanding basic safety protocols and ensuring work is carried out safely. 
• Communication: Assisting in coordination between contractors, supervisors, and project engineers. 
• Introduction to Quality Assurance: Helping ensure that materials such as asphalt, concrete, and steel comply with specifications. 

Who Needs NICET Highway Certification – Level I ? 

• State Departments of Transportation (DOTs): Many DOTs require NICET-certified inspectors for public highway projects. 
• Construction Management Firms: Contractors and consultants involved in road, highway, and bridge construction projects. 
• Government Agencies: Regulatory bodies involved in public infrastructure development. 
• Engineers and Inspectors: Professionals responsible for inspecting and documenting public works projects. 

Certification Requirements 

To achieve NICET Highway Construction Inspection Level I, candidates must: 

1. Work Experience: 
   1. Minimum of 1-2 years of relevant work experience (or demonstrated equivalent education). 
   2. Exposure to field conditions, such as construction sites and inspection tasks. 
2. Exams: 
   1. Pass a written examination that tests basic knowledge of highway construction practices, safety, terminology, and inspection procedures. 
3. Performance Measures: 
   1. Submission of a work history and supervisor validation. 
   2. No formal project management experience is required, as this is an entry-level credential. 

Benefits of Level I Certification 

• Career Entry: Provides a solid foundation to enter the highway construction inspection industry. 
• Employability: Many state transportation agencies and private contractors require NICET-certified inspectors for public projects. 
• Career Growth Path: Certification can be upgraded to higher levels (II, III, and IV) as the candidate gains more experience, knowledge, and responsibility. 

Preparatory Course Outlines (All study material will be provided by the instructor) 

Day 1: Plans and Specifications  
(Questions related to these tasks make up 30-35% of the exam.)  

• Recognize and use standard construction terminology. 
• Identify purposes and roles of various project documents.  
• Match locations on plans to locations on the site.  
• Locate and understand information on project drawings. 
• Identify project documents that specify types of project work. 
• Locate information in agency/owner standards and specifications. 

Day 2: Measurement and Surveys  
(Questions related to these tasks make up 20-25% of the exam.)  

• Identify and use U.S. Customary and Metric units of measure for length, area, volume, weight, mass, temperature, pressure, and strength, and convert one U.S. Customary unit to another, or one Metric unit to another. 
• Perform arithmetic calculations, and calculate areas and volumes of simple geometric shapes, including maintaining the correct precision. 
• Measure dimensions and compare with plans and specifications.  
• Identify survey stakes and markers, and interpret notation.  
• Use drawing scales to determine distances. 

Day 3:  Tools and Equipment  
(Questions related to these tasks make up 10-15% of the exam.)  

• Identify tools and equipment used by inspectors for inspections, testing, and reporting. 
• Identify tools and equipment used by surveyors. 
• Identify tools and equipment used in construction. 

Day 4:  Personal Safety  
 (Questions related to these tasks make up 10-12% of the exam.)  

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the construction site. 
• Identify and report potential safety hazards.  
• Identify sources of safety information and requirements.  

Day 5:  Site Operations  

 (Questions related to these tasks make up 10-20% of the exam.)  

• Identify components of work zone traffic control. 
• Identify construction activities.  
• Identify, and verify the presence of, erosion and sediment control components.  
• Identify, and verify the presence of, types of utility markings. 

Day 6: Review of selected topics

Day 7: Review of selected topics

Day 8: Preparation for the exam (practice test)

The course will take place on Saturdays and Sundays for four week online, with a Certificate of Completion provided upon completion of the course. 

Contact Information 

Dr. Azhar Mahmood 
Coordinator 
263 Academy Street, Room S605C  
Jersey City, NJ 07306 
(201) 360-4259 
amahmoodFREEHUDSONCOUNTYCOMMUNITYCOLLEGE