State Vehicle Inspector

DriveWhip is a mobility provider in the Washington, DC area, with offices in multiple cities that Leases/Rents vehicles to Uber, Lyft and other On-Demand or Rideshare drivers. As a ground floor member of an exciting new company all associates will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities. An appreciation for the pros and cons of start up culture is a must.

Position Summary: Whip is looking for an exceptional State Vehicle Inspector to uphold the highest standards of vehicle safety and compliance. In this role, you will conduct thorough inspections in accordance with COMAR 11.14, assess critical mechanical and safety systems, document results with precision, and certify vehicles that meet state regulatory requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (include, but are not limited to the following):

 Vehicle Inspections

• Perform full safety inspections covering brakes, steering, suspension, wheels/tires, lighting, exhaust, fuel systems, and other required safety components.
  
  


• Identify worn, damaged, or unsafe components; conduct reinspections after repairs.

Use of Test Equipment

• Operate state-approved tools such as headlight testers, ball-joint gauges, brake micrometers, and tint meters.
  
  


• Verify vehicle condition against manufacturer specifications and state minimum standards.

Documentation & Certification

• Complete official inspection reports and issue or deny inspection certificates per COMAR guidelines.
  
  


• Maintain accurate records and measurement data (tire depth, brake specs, suspension play, etc.).

Customer Interaction

• Explain inspection results and required repairs to vehicle owners and repair professionals.

Compliance & Conduct

• Follow all state inspection procedures and maintain familiarity with the Vehicle Inspection Handbook.
  
  


• Adhere to rules prohibiting falsification, improper certification, or inspecting outside approved areas.

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.

Salary:

$30 -$40/hour depending on experience

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Whip is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. Whip is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding status, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, military or veteran status, genetic information, disability (including physical or mental disability, medical condition, or medical leave), or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Consistent with our commitment to equal employment opportunity, Whip will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to perform the essential functions of your job due to a disability, please contact People Operations at [email protected] to request an accommodation.

This EEO statement reaffirms our commitment to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, in accordance with all applicable laws. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply for employment opportunities at Whip.

Compliance with Laws:

Whip employees are expected to comply with all federal, state, and local laws.

Disclaimer:

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of this position.  Essential duties and responsibilities may be added or modified as necessary at any time.