Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Certification
Timeline
Generic

David Lara

San Angelo,TX

Summary

I am an accomplished Construction Inspector with a proven track record at the Texas Department of Transportation, where I enhanced project efficiency and compliance through expert highway, traffic signal, pedestrian elements, traffic control inspections and rigorous safety regulation adherence. Known for exceptional organizational skills and a collaborative approach. I significantly contribute to improving construction practices and environmental compliance, ensuring projects meet stringent standards.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Construction Inspector II

Texas Department of Transportation
10.2014 - Current

1. Overall Inspection Duties include but not limited to the following:

  • Inspects construction methods and workmanship to ensure contractors build roadways, bridges, traffic signals, and other related structures in accordance with plans and specifications.
  • Act as a consultant regarding work progress and problem resolution.
  • Serve as the lead inspector on construction projects or assist in overseeing construction inspection activities for very large and/or complex projects within the district for inspection activities for ongoing highway improvement projects.
  • Responsible to a licensed professional engineer who has full authority for approval of all work.
  • Maintain contact with contractors, Department of Transportation employees, consultants, City Of San Angelo, electrical service providers, and other private entities.
  • Perform materials tests and manufacturing process inspections at fabrication sites.
  • Follow standard practices that do not require frequent supervision of details.
  • Actively participate in Construction and Maintenance preconstruction meetings. Answer contractor and other attendees' questions and concerns.
  • Provide weekly portfolio updates to my supervisor and project manager to advise them of weekly progress of work activities as well as any issues that may need assistance.
  • Establish and maintain regular communication with my supervisor, project manager, construction record keepers, as well as contractors' project managers, superintendents, foremen, contractor record keepers, and other private entities.
  • Inspect, measure, and calculate work performed and make payments due to Contractors.
  • Inspect construction procedures and work with the contractors to identify deficiencies in either the work or plans and recommend processes and procedures for improvement.
  • I oversee and keep excellent construction record keeping documentation. I work with TX DOT offices and Contractors to ensure all required records are provided and verified.
  • I work to ensure that monthly estimates are prepared.
  • Review and become familiar with the plans, traffic control standards, Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SW3P)/environmental standards, and other specifications that are assigned to the project.
  • I refer or escalate unusual issues to my project manager or supervisor.
  • Perform materials testing in accordance with the American Concrete Institute (ACI) Field and Strength Testing procedures.


2. Overall Safety Responsibilities include but not limited to the following:

  • Served a two-year term as the Safety Point of Contact (SPOC) for the Traffic/Signal Office.
  • Served a two year term on the dapartment's Safety Committee.
  • Maintained my fire extinguisher certification test to inspect the fire extinguishers.
  • Recruited and accepted to serve as a Smith System Instructor. I am one of the few qualified instructors in the district. I train new and veteran employees in Smith System Driving safe practices.
  • I plan, analyze situations, stay aware of my surroundings, identify hazards, and never become complacent.
  • Plan and analyze situations to assist in the prevention incidents for myself, the department, contractors, and public usage of vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
  • Ensure to use and maintain proper PPE in accordance department policies.
  • Work to directly affect change to improve the safety culture in not only my own work and people I work with in the department, but also the contractors that I work with in the field.
  • Attend safety meetings and work to create an interest in them by providing feedback and actively participating, encouraging others to participate, and provide safety presentations of my own.
  • Work to be intentionally safe by planning, communicating, and always following through with safety practices in accordance with the department Handbook of Safe Practices and OSHA policies and procedures.
  • Work with contractors to ensure that all traffic control set ups comply with the plans, standards, and the Texas Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (TMUTCD).


3. Overall Record Keeping responsibilities include but not limited to the following:

  • I keep exceptional project records by documenting detailed Daily Work Reports (DWRs).
  • I prepare correspondence to ensure the contractor is informed of required documents including material invoices to confirm items used on the contract are on the current Material Producer Lists, Buy America Forms, Notarized Fabricators Certifications, Mills Test Reports, updated schedules, Construction Bulletin Board Materials, Labor Standards Reviews, Mobile Reflectivity Data, and other pertinent items.
  • I prepare correspondence to ensure the contractor is informed to provide accurate and required documentation by reviewing the Departments Materials and Test Reports for Project Records.
  • Work with the department's Construction Records Office/Auditor, Materials and Testing Department, contractor's record keeper, and other private entities to ensure records are obtained and accurate.
  • Ensure construction audits find very little to no deficiencies. Pay items are accurate and on time.
  • Gather documentation to prepare project punch list, material quantities for change orders, correspondences for reports, supplemental agreements, field changes, and other supporting documents.
  • Perform computer data entry using software programs including Site Manager to keep sensitive construction records, Bluebeam to assist in project reviews and comments, ProjectWise to assist in construction record keeping.
  • Read and prepare emails to start and maintain regular communication. Microsoft Word and Excel to create applicable data charts, laboratory testing records, and project schedules. Microsoft Teams to participate in project meetings and discussions.


4. Overall Vehicle Operation responsibilities include but not limited to the following:

  • I complete daily 360 walk around inspections.
  • Perform daily/weekly preventative maintenance vehicle inspections by completing the department's Passenger, Medium Duty and Heavy Duty Checklist.
  • Communicate any reoccurring issues with my vehicle to my supervisor and the department's shop.




Building Maintenance Technician

Jeff Davis County
03.2014 - 09.2014
  • Inspected buildings, grounds, and equipment for unsafe or malfunctioning conditions.
  • Maintained a clean and attractive building exterior, contributing to positive curb appeal and tenant satisfaction.
  • Worked quickly on emergency requests in order to minimize disruptions to operations.
  • Handled basic plumbing repairs as well as more complex issue resolution tasks that required collaboration with licensed professionals.
  • Assisted with renovation projects, providing hands-on support and technical expertise as needed.
  • Served as on-call technician during off-hours periods, addressing urgent issues promptly to minimize disruptions to tenants'' daily routines.
  • Ensured tenant satisfaction with prompt response to service requests and effective communication.
  • Performed scheduled maintenance on electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
  • Collaborated with property management team to address facility needs, resulting in improved tenant retention rates.
  • Organized and maintained inventory of spare parts and equipment consumables.
  • Increased equipment lifespan by implementing a proactive maintenance schedule for all building systems.
  • Reduced downtime for critical equipment by performing routine maintenance and repairs.
  • Installed new locks, door handles, and door closers.
  • Completed daily, weekly, and monthly checklists on building equipment to maintain records of scheduled maintenance procedures.
  • Restored and repaired worn and damaged building components to support appearance, longevity and security.
  • Supported safety with well-maintained grounds, parking lots and landscaping.
  • Followed instructions from supervisor regarding daily job tasks and duties.
  • Rewired and replaced faulty electrical components in equipment.
  • Removed trash and recyclables at end of each shift and disposed of items in proper receptacles.
  • Operated varied hand and power tools to complete repairs.
  • Used problem-solving skills to alleviate issues efficiently with minimal supervision.
  • Troubleshot equipment breakdowns and performed preventive maintenance.
  • Followed work orders and specifications for machine and equipment replacement, repair, or maintenance.
  • Knowledge of the daily maintenance of grounds keeping procedures.
  • Knowledge in basic plumbing, sewer systems, electrical, painting, sprinkler systems, roofing, light construction, and janitorial work.
  • Knowledge and skills for usage of light and heavy-duty equipment like mowing tractors and attachments, bobcat and attachments, backhoe and attachments, and chainsaws, weed eaters, and other pertinent items.
  • Prepared vehicles for treatment by monitoring fluid levels and performing preventive maintenance.


Building Maintenance Technician

Fort Davis High Frontier
02.2012 - 02.2014
  • Inspected buildings, grounds, and equipment for unsafe or malfunctioning conditions.
  • Maintained a clean and attractive building exterior, contributing to positive curb appeal and tenant satisfaction.
  • Worked quickly on emergency requests in order to minimize disruptions to operations.
  • Handled basic plumbing repairs as well as more complex issue resolution tasks that required collaboration with licensed professionals.
  • Assisted with renovation projects, providing hands-on support and technical expertise as needed.
  • Served as on-call technician during off-hours periods, addressing urgent issues promptly to minimize disruptions to tenants'' daily routines.
  • Ensured tenant satisfaction with prompt response to service requests and effective communication.
  • Performed scheduled maintenance on electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
  • Collaborated with property management team to address facility needs, resulting in improved tenant retention rates.
  • Organized and maintained inventory of spare parts and equipment consumables.
  • Increased equipment lifespan by implementing a proactive maintenance schedule for all building systems.
  • Reduced downtime for critical equipment by performing routine maintenance and repairs.
  • Installed new locks, door handles, and door closers.
  • Completed daily, weekly, and monthly checklists on building equipment to maintain records of scheduled maintenance procedures.
  • Restored and repaired worn and damaged building components to support appearance, longevity and security.
  • Supported safety with well-maintained grounds, parking lots and landscaping.
  • Followed instructions from supervisor regarding daily job tasks and duties.
  • Rewired and replaced faulty electrical components in equipment.
  • Removed trash and recyclables at end of each shift and disposed of items in proper receptacles.
  • Operated varied hand and power tools to complete repairs.
  • Used problem-solving skills to alleviate issues efficiently with minimal supervision.
  • Troubleshot equipment breakdowns and performed preventive maintenance.
  • Followed work orders and specifications for machine and equipment replacement, repair, or maintenance.
  • Knowledge of the daily maintenance of grounds keeping procedures.
  • Knowledge in basic plumbing, sewer systems, electrical, painting, sprinkler systems, roofing, light construction, and janitorial work.
  • Knowledge and skills for usage of light and heavy-duty equipment like mowing tractors and attachments, bobcat and attachments, backhoe and attachments, and chainsaws, weed eaters, and other pertinent items.
  • Prepared vehicles for treatment by monitoring fluid levels and performing preventive maintenance.
  • Basic knowledge in pool maintenance.

Ranch Construction Laborer

Evans Ranch Consruction
06.2011 - 10.2011
  • Aided in the preparation for ranch road construction, clearing debris, mobilizing necessary equipment, and organizing materials for efficient workflow.
  • Contributed to successful ranch road construction projects, performing various labor-intensive duties as required.
  • Assisted in in the operation of light and heavy equipment including work trucks, water trucks, steel wheel rollers, backhoes, bobcats, excavators, and maintainers.
  • Assisted in the installation and maintenance of HDPE waterline systems to water troughs for a wide range of ranch livestock.
  • Assisting in the building and prepping water tank foundations.
  • Operated hand tools and power equipment safely, reducing risk of injury or damage to property during construction projects.
  • Assisted in the transportation of water to water tanks for drilling operations for silver mines.

Group Instructor

Fort Davis High Frontier
11.2010 - 06.2011
  • Assisted in the regular supervision of student groups for children in alternative and therapeutic boarding schools.
  • Contributed to school-wide initiatives aimed at improving overall student achievement and fostering a culture of excellence within the institution.
  • Organized extracurricular activities such as activities and competitions related to course content, further engaging students outside of class time.
  • Promoted a positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations and maintaining effective group management.
  • Developed strong relationships with students, creating an atmosphere of trust that facilitated open dialogue about academic performance and personal growth.
  • Assessed student progress regularly through various assessment tools, providing valuable feedback to the group and their improvement.
  • Provided valuable feedback to the student counselors and teachers on overall student and group dynamics.

Furniture Delivery Driver

Lack's Furniture
10.2006 - 10.2010
  • Loaded truck and properly secured items to prevent damage for deliveries.
  • Improved customer satisfaction by providing professional, courteous service throughout the delivery process.
  • Demonstrated strong attention to detail while inspecting furniture before delivery, identifying any defects or damages prior to departure from the warehouse.
  • Coordinated with management on route adjustments as needed based on traffic conditions or other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Collaborated with warehouse staff to ensure timely loading and unloading of inventory for delivery.
  • Handled customer inquiries and concerns regarding deliveries, resolving issues promptly to maintain positive relationships.
  • Contacted customers prior to delivery to confirm and coordinate delivery times.
  • Assisted with assembly and installation of furniture at customer locations when required.
  • Maintained accurate records of deliveries, including signatures and confirmation documentation.
  • Promoted a clean work environment by maintaining a neat appearance both personally and within the vehicle.
  • Supported fellow drivers in developing their skills by sharing knowledge about safe driving techniques, effective packing methods, and time-saving strategies.
  • Trained in the SMITH System Safe Driving practices.
  • Reduced damage claims by carefully handling delicate items during loading, transportation, and unloading processes.
  • Provided support to sales team through prompt communication of delivery updates or changes in scheduling.

Furntiture Delivery Driver

Ashley's Furntiure Homestore/Bratton's Funiture
08.2005 - 10.2006
  • Loaded truck and properly secured items to prevent damage for deliveries.
  • Improved customer satisfaction by providing professional, courteous service throughout the delivery process.
  • Demonstrated strong attention to detail while inspecting furniture before delivery, identifying any defects or damages prior to departure from the warehouse.
  • Coordinated with management on route adjustments as needed based on traffic conditions or other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Collaborated with warehouse staff to ensure timely loading and unloading of inventory for delivery.
  • Handled customer inquiries and concerns regarding deliveries, resolving issues promptly to maintain positive relationships.
  • Contacted customers prior to delivery to confirm and coordinate delivery times.
  • Assisted with assembly and installation of furniture at customer locations when required.
  • Maintained accurate records of deliveries, including signatures and confirmation documentation.
  • Promoted a clean work environment by maintaining a neat appearance both personally and within the vehicle.
  • Supported fellow drivers in developing their skills by sharing knowledge about safe driving techniques, effective packing methods, and time-saving strategies.
  • Reduced damage claims by carefully handling delicate items during loading, transportation, and unloading processes.
  • Provided support to sales team through prompt communication of delivery updates or changes in scheduling.

Lanscaping Laborer

Roadrunner Landscaping
06.2004 - 08.2005
  • Planted bulbs, trees, bushes, and flowers for residential and commercial clients.
  • Maintained a clean working environment by regularly clearing debris from walkways, patios, and other common areas.
  • Worked with efficient time management and prioritizing tasks for maximum productivity.
  • Used trimmers and chainsaws for grounds maintenance, brush clearing, and tree removal and thinning.
  • Performed planting, watering, mulching, and edging of lawns.
  • Installed stonework according to landscape design plan and client specifications.
  • Utilized power tools and landscaping machines to maintain outdoor areas.
  • Worked under the supervision of landscaping professionals to improve outdoor areas.

Grocery Store Stocker

Baeza's Thriftway
09.2001 - 09.2002
  • Unloaded, sorted and stocked merchandise according to store layout and product placement.
  • Answered customer questions and provided detailed product information.
  • Performed inventory control, such as counting, and stocking merchandise.
  • Greeted customers and directed to requested products.
  • Enhanced inventory accuracy by diligently organizing and maintaining stockroom shelves.
  • Contributed to store cleanliness, ensuring aisles were free from clutter and hazards for shopper safety.
  • Improved customer satisfaction by promptly locating items.
  • Completed end-of-day tasks such as returning misplaced items to their correct locations, contributing to an organized sales floor for the next day''s business.
  • Maintained strong communication with supervisors regarding stock levels, upcoming promotions, and potential display changes.
  • Ensured proper rotation of perishable goods to maintain freshness and comply with health regulations.
  • Provided backup support to cashiers during peak hours, resulting in shorter wait times for customers.

Education

High School Diploma -

Fort Davis High School
Fort Davis
05.2005

Skills

  • Highway & Traffic Signal Inspections
  • Materials and Testing
  • Safety Regulations
  • Inspection Reporting & Record Keeping
  • Environmental Compliance Inspections
  • Plan Review
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Problem-Solving
  • Attention to Detail
  • Organizational Skills
  • Self Motivation
  • Professionalism

Languages

English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Limited Working

Certification

American Concrete Institute (ACI) Certified in the following:.

  • ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician – Grade I.
  • ACI Concrete Strength Testing Technician.


Certified to do TX DOT Electrical work on the following:

  • TX DOT Roadway Illumination and Electrical Installations.
  • TX DOT Electrical Requirements for the Installation of Traffic Signals.


TX DOT Certified to instruct Smith System Driving Training.

  • Smith System Instructor Course.


  • TX DOT Forklift - Train the Trainer


Timeline

Construction Inspector II

Texas Department of Transportation
10.2014 - Current

Building Maintenance Technician

Jeff Davis County
03.2014 - 09.2014

Building Maintenance Technician

Fort Davis High Frontier
02.2012 - 02.2014

Ranch Construction Laborer

Evans Ranch Consruction
06.2011 - 10.2011

Group Instructor

Fort Davis High Frontier
11.2010 - 06.2011

Furniture Delivery Driver

Lack's Furniture
10.2006 - 10.2010

Furntiture Delivery Driver

Ashley's Furntiure Homestore/Bratton's Funiture
08.2005 - 10.2006

Lanscaping Laborer

Roadrunner Landscaping
06.2004 - 08.2005

Grocery Store Stocker

Baeza's Thriftway
09.2001 - 09.2002

High School Diploma -

Fort Davis High School

American Concrete Institute (ACI) Certified in the following:.

  • ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician – Grade I.
  • ACI Concrete Strength Testing Technician.


Certified to do TX DOT Electrical work on the following:

  • TX DOT Roadway Illumination and Electrical Installations.
  • TX DOT Electrical Requirements for the Installation of Traffic Signals.


TX DOT Certified to instruct Smith System Driving Training.

  • Smith System Instructor Course.


  • TX DOT Forklift - Train the Trainer


David Lara