Field Inspector

Job DetailsJob Location: Kansas City, MODepartment: Vertical Transportation

Lerch Bates is seeking experienced Part-Time Field Inspectors to support our Vertical Transportation team by evaluating existing elevator and conveyance systems in a variety of building types. In this role, you will conduct field inspections, equipment assessments, maintenance audits, modernization evaluations, and condition surveys while providing clear, detailed, and timely documentation of findings and recommendations.

This position focuses primarily on existing building work, helping building owners and managers make informed decisions regarding system performance, code compliance, maintenance practices, equipment lifecycle planning, and modernization strategies. Field Inspectors manage their own schedules while serving as trusted technical resources on a project-by-project basis.

This is a part-time, contingent position and is not currently eligible for benefits. It is ideal for seasoned industry professionals seeking flexible, project-based work.

About Lerch Bates:

Lerch Bates (LB) is a global technical consulting firm focused on improving how buildings perform for owners, designers, and the people who use them every day. For more than 75 years we’ve partnered on some of the world’s most complex and high-profile projects. Today we provide Total Building Performance expertise that integrates Building Science and Building Flow into a unified delivery model.

Our work spans design, construction, investigation, repair, rehabilitation, management, and modernization with one consistent goal: helping clients make confident, well-informed decisions in an increasingly complex built environment.

We are 100% employee-owned through our ESOP. That means when the company succeeds, our employee-owners share in that success. It's more than a retirement benefit—it's an ownership mindset backed by the opportunity to build long-term financial value while helping shape the future of the company. 

What You’ll Do:

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed in this position. They are not intended to prescribe or restrict the assignments that management may make.

Existing Building Assessments & Inspections

Conduct field evaluations of existing vertical transportation systems, including elevators, escalators, moving walks, wheelchair lifts, dumbwaiters, and other conveyance equipment.
Perform condition assessments, maintenance audits, code compliance reviews, and modernization evaluations to support client decision-making and long-term asset planning.
Document equipment conditions, operational performance, deficiencies, and observations during site visits.

Reporting & Technical Documentation

Prepare detailed inspection reports, assessment findings, and technical recommendations in a timely and professional manner.
Clearly communicate observations, risks, and recommended actions to support maintenance, repair, and modernization strategies.
Ensure all documentation meets Lerch Bates quality standards and project requirements.

Project Management & Client Service

Manage your own schedule and workload to ensure inspections, assessments, and reports are completed accurately and on time.
Maintain professional and courteous interactions with building owners, property managers, maintenance providers, and other project stakeholders.
Serve as a trusted technical resource by providing objective, experience-based observations and recommendations.

Additional Responsibilities

Maintain knowledge of industry codes, standards, technologies, and best practices related to vertical transportation systems.
Support special projects and other duties as assigned.

What You’ll Bring:

Thorough knowledge of conveyance equipment installation, maintenance, and applicable elevator codes
Prior experience in the elevator or vertical transportation industry
QEI and/or CEI certification strongly preferred
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Exceptional attention to detail and inspection accuracy
Ability to work in elevated and confined environments, including high-rise buildings and elevator shafts

Why Work with Lerch Bates?

Even in a part-time capacity, you’ll be working alongside a respected, employee-owned consultancy known for technical excellence and a strong ownership mindset.
Competitive, project-based compensation
Flexible scheduling
Exposure to diverse projects and clients across multiple markets
Collaboration with industry-leading technical experts
A values-driven, employee-owned culture

Core Values

Ownership • Community • Integrity • Respect • Optimism

Working Environment:

This role involves both physical and mental demands and may be performed in various settings, including offices, construction sites, and confined spaces like elevator pits. Tasks often require frequent movement in multi