State Inspector, MD

Position Summary: Tired of inspecting cars for someone else's bottom line? Done rubber-stamping fleet vehicles while nobody notices your expertise? Sick of dealership politics deciding how your day goes? Tired of being just another clipboard in a broken system? Whip is different. And so is this role. At Whip, we're not your grandfather's car company. We're a fast-moving, tech-forward vehicle platform that's rewriting the rules of how cars get inspected, certified, and put on the road and we need a State Vehicle Inspector who takes that seriously. This isn't mindless fleet processing. This is precision work that actually matters. As a State Vehicle Inspector at Whip, you'll be the last line of defense between our customers and an unsafe vehicle. You'll conduct thorough inspections in accordance with COMAR 11.14, evaluate critical mechanical and safety systems, document findings with surgical accuracy, and certify vehicles that truly meet Maryland state standards, not just the bare minimum. Your stamp means something here. What you're walking away from: Flat rate pay that punishes your thoroughness Fleet quotas that pressure you to rush and cut corners Dealership bureaucracy that ignores your expertise Dead-end routines with no room to grow What you're walking into: Hourly pay — no flat rate, no games A modern, flexible work environment built for professionals Management that respects your certification and your craft A role where your eye for detail is valued You're the right fit if you: Hold a valid Maryland State Vehicle Inspector certification Have experience in dealership, fleet, or independent inspection work Are obsessive about safety, accuracy, and doing it right the first time Want to be part of a company that's building something worth bragging about Are ready to leave the old-school grind behind for good The cars are newer. The culture is better. The opportunity is real. Whip is where sharp inspectors come to do their best work. Essential Duties and Responsibilities (include, but are not limited to the following): Vehicle Inspections Perform comprehensive safety inspections–brakes, steering, suspension, tires, lighting, exhaust, fuel systems, and every critical safety component in between. Catch what others miss. Identify worn, damaged, or unsafe components and conduct thorough reinspections after repairs are completed. Use of Test Equipment Operate state-approved tools like headlight testers, ball-joint gauges, brake micrometers, and tint meters with confidence and precision. Verify every vehicle against manufacturer specs and Maryland state standards–no shortcuts, no guesswork. Documentation & Certification Complete official inspection reports and issue or deny certificates per COMAR 11.14 guidelines–your signature carries weight, treat it that way. Maintain airtight records including tire depth, brake specs, suspension play, and all measurement data. Customer Interaction Communicate inspection results and required repairs clearly and professionally to vehicle owners and repair teams. You're the expert–own it. Compliance & Conduct Know the Vehicle Inspection Handbook inside and out and follow all state inspection procedures without exception. Uphold the integrity of every inspection– falsification, improper certification, or cutting corners has no place here. Qualifications Required: Minimum 12 months automotive repair experience. Minimum age 18 (or 17 with approved automotive training). Valid driver's license for vehicles inspected and road-tested. Ability to pass written/state exams (score ≥ 80) and demonstrate tool proficiency. Preferred Prior inspection certification or ASE credentials. Experience in repair shops, dealerships, or safety programs. Education and Experience: High school diploma or GED required. Vocational/technical automotive training preferred and required for 17-year-old applicants. Skills: Technical mechanical aptitude Attention to detail and accuracy Knowledge of state vehicle codes and standards Professional communication and customer service skills Integrity and adherence to regulatory protocols Ability to identify defects and enforce compliance consistently Work Environment & Physical Demands: Work performed in authorized inspection facilities, service bays, or state inspection stations. Frequent exposure to noise, fumes, machinery, and varying weather conditions (for outdoor tasks). Requires standing, bending, lifting automotive components, and working under vehicles. Must maintain compliance with safety standards and use personal protective equipment.