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Powts Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zoning Administrator

Ladysmith, WI · On-site

$31.59 - $33.39/hr

Maintain POWTS inspector credential. Maintain certified soil tester credential. Prepare training for local plumbers related to POWTS changes and updates. Interpretation and enforcement of zoning ...

Land Use Services also administers the County's Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (POWTS) program, ensuring proper regulation, inspection, and monitoring to protect ground and surface water ...

Land Use Specialist

Shell Lake, WI · On-site

$24.80 - $25.55/hr

Must possess or acquire and maintain a State of Wisconsin POWTS Inspector credentials within six months and attempt the Wisconsin Certified Soil Tester credentials within the first year of employment.

Land Use Specialist

Shell Lake, WI · On-site

$24.80 - $25.55/hr

Must possess or acquire and maintain a State of Wisconsin POWTS Inspector credentials within six months and attempt the Wisconsin Certified Soil Tester credentials within the first year of employment.

Powts Inspector information

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do powts inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for powts inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a POWTS inspector?

To thrive as a POWTS (Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems) Inspector, you need a solid understanding of wastewater treatment principles, state/local codes, and inspection procedures, often supported by relevant certifications and licensing. Familiarity with inspection tools, digital reporting systems, and GPS mapping technology is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the accurate assessment and documentation of systems, compliance with regulations, and protection of public and environmental health.

What is the difference between Powts Inspector vs Plumbing Inspector?

AspectPowts InspectorPlumbing Inspector
CertificationsTypically requires certifications in plumbing systems and backflow preventionRequires plumbing licenses and certifications in plumbing codes
Work EnvironmentInspects wastewater and stormwater systems, often outdoors or at construction sitesInspects plumbing installations in residential, commercial, or industrial buildings
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, environmental agencies, wastewater companiesBuilding departments, construction firms, municipalities

Powts Inspectors focus on wastewater and stormwater systems, ensuring compliance with environmental standards, while Plumbing Inspectors primarily verify plumbing installations in buildings. Both roles require plumbing-related certifications and work in similar environments, but their specific responsibilities differ based on the systems they inspect.

What is a POWTS inspector?

POWTS inspectors are professionals responsible for inspecting Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (POWTS), commonly known as septic systems, to ensure they comply with local and state regulations. They examine system design, installation, maintenance, and operation to protect public health and the environment. POWTS inspectors often work for local government agencies or as licensed contractors and are trained in wastewater treatment standards, soil science, and plumbing codes.

What are common challenges POWTS inspectors face during site evaluations?

POWTS Inspectors often encounter challenges such as difficult terrain, limited access to private properties, and incomplete or outdated system documentation. Additionally, they may need to navigate communication with property owners who are unfamiliar with code requirements or reluctant to make necessary changes. Effective problem-solving skills and clear, respectful communication are essential for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring systems meet all regulatory standards.
What job categories do people searching Powts Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Powts Inspector jobs are:
Infographic showing various Powts Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Zoning Administrator

Rusk, County of (WI)

Ladysmith, WI • On-site

$31.59 - $33.39/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Description This position is responsible for the administration and enforcement of the county comprehensive zoning ordinance, subdivision control ordinance, floodplain ordinance, private sewage ordinance, and shore land ordinance. Requires interaction with any affected entity to provide ordinance and code related information and guidance for completion of required forms and applications. Must possess in-depth knowledge of current regulations related to zoning, land use, and sanitary activities.

Conducts inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and investigates code violations including issuance of citations. Examples of Duties The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive.

Other duties may be required and assigned. Work with the public on permit applications and changes in zoning code. Inspect septic system installations and construction projects to determine compliance.

Review and issue land use and sanitary permits. Review soil tests and evaluate for suitability. Assist property owners with floodplain determination.

Assist with wetland determinations. Review rezoning and conditional use permits. Prepare annual budget for review by Zoning/Land Information Committee.

Assists with review of CSM's, subdivision plats, and other development projects and make recommendations to the Zoning/Land Information Committee. Maintain daily log of inspections and mileage. Administer the WI-FUND program.

Administers the county POWTS maintenance tracking program. Draft and post committee agendas. Ensures maintenance of complete, accurate, and timely records of division activities.

Prepare public hearing notices and posts notices per State Statutes. Receive and investigate complaints. Enforce codes including issuing citations.

Assist property owners with the variance process. Attend Board of Adjustment meetings to represent the Rusk County Zoning Division. Send annual camper permit notices.

Maintain POWTS inspector credential. Maintain certified soil tester credential. Prepare training for local plumbers related to POWTS changes and updates.

Interpretation and enforcement of zoning codes and regulations, scheduling relevant permit activities, maintaining zoning related data, and field collection of data related to permit activity. Make recommendations to the Zoning/Land Information Committee for code changes. Assign, monitor, plan and schedule work activities of the Zoning Technician and other LCDD staff when available and as needed.

Support Department Director to determine work processes and evaluate/discipline employees. Responsible for knowing, interpreting, and implementing the requirements of current zoning codes and regulations. Must be able to effectively communicate division goals, strategies, and operations to federal, state, and local governmental agencies in the administration of zoning program Typical Qualifications The following qualifications must be met in order to be considered for the position: Bachelor's degree in soil science, natural resources, geography, or closely related file with a minimum of 2 years of experience in zoning code administration; or a combination of training and experience equivalent to 5 years of experience in zoning code administration, interpretation, and enforcement.

Ability to analyze legal documents such as CSM's, soil maps, site plans, etc. Must understand complex sewage disposal system design and construction. Able to read and interpret zoning code and related court cases.

Knowledge of state and local government organizational functions. Knowledge of administrative practices and procedures including budgeting, fiscal management, public administration, and personnel management. Thorough knowledge of current zoning management practices and procedures.

Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations affecting planning, development, land use, and zoning. Certification as a POWTS inspector. Certification as a Wisconsin Certified Soil Tester.

Must possess a valid motor vehicle operator's license. Supplemental Information Physical Requirements This job entails minimal physical demands, typically found in an office environment, with limited exposure to workplace hazards. Field conditions will impact physical requirements.

Some lifting, moving, bending, and twisting. Work Environment Work is conducted both in an office setting and in the field. Office setting includes sitting, standing, and walking with some bending, lifting, and twisting.

Field conditions vary and generally involve conditions which could impact physical comfort and include walking, standing, and other physical activity. Occasional exposure to workplace hazards and environmental conditions including heat, cold, wetness, noise, dust, and odors. Will require travel to job sites, meetings/trainings, and to obtain supplies.

EOE / ADA Statement Rusk County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Rusk County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. Selection Guidelines Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; job related tests may be required.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.