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Public Works Construction Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Right now, we're looking for a skilled Construction Inspector to join our team across Southern California and help deliver impactful public works projects. In this role, you'll play a key part in ...

Right now, we're looking for a skilled Construction Inspector to join our team across Southern California and help deliver impactful public works projects. In this role, you'll play a key part in ...

Right now, we're looking for a skilled Construction Inspector to join our team across Southern California and help deliver impactful public works projects. In this role, you'll play a key part in ...

Right now, we're looking for a skilled Construction Inspector to join our team across Southern California and help deliver impactful public works projects. In this role, you'll play a key part in ...

Public Works Inspectors are responsible for on-site inspection to enforce the contract plans and ... These positions are part of the Construction Services, Utility Management & Compliance, and ADA ...

Public Works Inspector

Portland, OR · On-site

$88.15K - $100.82K/yr

Public Works Inspectors are responsible for on-site inspection to enforce the contract plans and ... These positions are part of the Construction Services, Utility Management & Compliance, and ADA ...

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Public Works Construction Inspector information

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$32.5K

$66.3K

$117K

How much do public works construction inspector jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works construction inspector in the United States is $66,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $78,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Public Works Construction Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Works Construction Inspector, you need a solid understanding of construction methods, civil engineering principles, and local building codes, often supported by relevant certifications or an associate degree. Familiarity with inspection reporting software, GIS systems, and tools for measuring site compliance is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and strong problem-solving abilities are critical soft skills for this role. These skills ensure infrastructure projects meet quality standards, regulatory requirements, and are completed safely and efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by Public Works Construction Inspectors during large-scale infrastructure projects?

Public Works Construction Inspectors often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple contractors and stakeholders, ensuring all work complies with complex codes and regulations, and managing unexpected site conditions like weather delays or unforeseen underground utilities. Additionally, inspectors must maintain clear and consistent documentation, and sometimes mediate between project teams to resolve conflicts. These challenges require strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt quickly to evolving project needs.

What does a Public Works Construction Inspector do?

A Public Works Construction Inspector is responsible for overseeing and inspecting construction projects funded or managed by government agencies, such as roads, bridges, water systems, and public buildings. They ensure that construction work complies with plans, specifications, codes, and safety regulations. Inspectors monitor the quality of materials and workmanship, document progress, and report any issues or violations. They also serve as a liaison between contractors, engineers, and government officials to help resolve problems and maintain project standards.

What is the difference between Public Works Construction Inspector vs Civil Engineering Technician?

AspectPublic Works Construction InspectorCivil Engineering Technician
CertificationsUsually requires certifications like NICET or state-specific inspector licensesOften requires an associate degree in civil engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentOn-site inspections of public infrastructure projectsOffice and field work supporting engineering projects
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, state agencies, construction firmsEngineering consulting firms, government agencies, construction companies

The Public Works Construction Inspector primarily focuses on inspecting public infrastructure projects on-site, ensuring compliance with plans and safety standards. Civil Engineering Technicians support engineering projects through design, drafting, and data collection, often working in offices. While both roles require technical knowledge, the inspector's role is more field-oriented, whereas the technician's role is more supportive and design-focused.

More about Public Works Construction Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Works Construction Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Public Works Construction Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Public Works Construction Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Works Construction Inspector jobs include:
Infographic showing various Public Works Construction Inspector job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,250 per year, or $31.9 per hour.
Construction Inspector-Public Works

Construction Inspector-Public Works

NV5

San Diego, CA • On-site

$50 - $75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 349 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

NV5, where we specialize in technology, conformity assessment, and consulting solutions for both public and private sector clients. Right now, we're looking for a skilled Construction Inspector to join our team across Southern California and help deliver impactful public works projects.

In this role, you'll play a key part in ensuring quality, safety, and compliance on infrastructure projects that shape the communities we live in-think roads, bridges, water systems, and more. As part of NV5, you'll work alongside engineers, program managers, and environmental professionals to contribute to sustainable, cost-effective projects that make a real difference.

Competitive $50.00- $75.00 per hour + Benefits Location: Southern California; Hours: Full-time and Part-time Focus: Public Works Infrastructure projects (Water/Wastewater/Roads/Treatment facilities/Airports/ Transportation)

If this sounds like an opportunity you'd like to explore, Apply today Careers - NV5 

ResponsibilitiesWhat You'll Do:
  • Be the Problem-Solver: Work directly with supervisors, contractors, and design professionals to tackle challenges head-on, ensuring seamless project execution.
  • Oversee Quality & Compliance: Monitor contractor work, inspect structures and systems to guarantee adherence to project plans and specifications.
  • Keep Projects on Track: Track costs and schedules, identify risks early, and ensure that deadlines are met while avoiding budget overruns.
  • Be the Go-To Expert: Interpret plans and contract terms, ensuring all stakeholders-from administrative staff to clients-are on the same page.
  • Proactively Manage Challenges: Recommend solutions for delays, weather disruptions, and site emergencies to maintain efficiency.
  • Drive Project Success: Represent NV5 and our commitment to excellence by maintaining strong client relationships and assessing their needs to provide optimal solutions.
 Qualifications

Qualifications:

  • Experience and working knowledge of civil construction principles/practices in at least one of the following three fields:
    • Municipal and Public Works projects, water and wastewater distribution systems, water and waste water treatment plants.
    • Transportation projects with a preference for highway and Caltrans roadway projects.
    • Experience and working knowledge with Caltrans MUCTD and Caltrans Construction Manual
  • 3-5 years of experience in the above experience
    • Preference given to Group II Construction Inspection Certificates or other Valid Construction Certificates in Public Works or Related Fields
  • Electrical inspection, including SCADA and Instrumentation for City and Agency municipal projects such as lift stations, pumping stations, water treatment plants, signalized intersections, and other electrical municipal projects.
  • Knowledge of building codes, including ICBO, ACI, NEC, local City ordinances, and engineering practices for public works and/or transportation projects and/or electrical SCADA and Instrumentation Projects.
  • Preference will be given to those who have a minimum of one valid Group II certification.
  • Competency Statement(s)
  • Experience providing construction oversight of the Contractor
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, proven ability to interact with individuals at all levels of construction while coordinating multiple, complex projects
  • Working knowledge of and basic proficiency with computers. Ability to create and use Construction Inspection Daily logs on computer/tablet. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and Outlook. Ability to utilize other construction related software including Microsoft Project and/or Primavera, a plus.
  •  
  • Conflict Resolution -Effectively and constructively manage conflicts with others.
  • Safety Awareness - Identify and correct conditions that affect employee safety.

Education:

  • High School Degree or a related technical field

Certifications/Licenses:

  • Candidate must have a valid California Driver's License
  • While Certificates are not mandatory, the ideal candidate may have many of the following certificates:
  • Safety and Basic Certificates
  • Cal OSHA Safety Awareness Training
  • 40-Hour HAZWOPER
  • Project Inspector
  • Public Works Inspector
  • Group II Certifications
  • AWS-CWI Welding Inspector
  • Concrete Inspector
  • Building/Construction Inspector
  • Grading Inspector
  • Reinforcing Steel
  • Pre-tensioned concrete
  • Post Tensioned Concrete
  • Structural Steel Welding Inspector
  • Concrete Batch Plant
  • Structural Masonry
  • Group III
  • Protective Coatings Inspector

Physical Requirements:Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Safety Glasses, Hard Hat, protective footwear, respirators or other PPE's as needed in compliance with OSHA regulations). Ability to work out-of-doors in inclemently hot or cold weather, sitting, standing, and walking. Most shifts are worked monitoring the Contractors' standard construction shift during the day M- F, but you should be willing to work nights and weekends.Ability to travel within Southern CaliforniaWORK ENVIRONMENT:Working out of a field office/vehicle at the construction site, Construction Inspectors monitor the overall construction project. Decisions regarding daily construction activities are generally made at the job site. Construction Inspectors travel extensively when the construction site is not close to their main office or when they are responsible for activities at two or more sites.Travel within Southern California may be required.

The base pay range for this California position is $50.00- $75.00 per hour; Base pay offered may be higher or lower depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and location of the candidate. Restricted stock units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Applicants should apply via the NV5 careers site.

All local employment laws apply. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via the NV5 careers site.

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k), and professional development/advancement opportunities.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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About NV5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NV5 is a renowned company based in Los Angeles, CA, US, that operates in the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Officially established in 2009, this company provides technical engineering and consulting solutions that cater to public and private sectors globally. The firm is adept in a wide range of services, including infrastructure, energy, construction, program management, and environmental services. As part of its mission, NV5 seeks to deliver solutions that enhance communities and safeguard the environment meticulously.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US