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Public Works Inspector Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

City of Dallas, OR

Utility Worker I or II

Dallas, OR · On-site

$50K - $69K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Public Works Division: Sewer Opening Date: 07/01/2026 Closing Date: Continuous General Statement of ... Maintains a variety of records relating to inspections, maintenance activities, system cleaning etc.

City of West Linn

Civil Engineer

West Linn, OR · On-site

$42.28 - $54.72/hr

... public infrastructure, field inspections, and assisting the Director of Public Works/City Engineer, Assistant City Engineer, or the Senior Project Engineer in administering general engineering ...

City of Dallas, Oregon

Utility Worker I or II

Dallas, OR · On-site

$50K - $69K/yr

Maintains a variety of records relating to inspections, maintenance activities, system cleaning etc ... Operates equipment of the Public Works Department, including dump trucks, backhoe, tractor, mower ...

City of St. Helens, Oregon

Engineer I

Saint Helens, OR · On-site

$6.3K - $7.6K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Public works or municipal internship experience * Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) * Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software and technology * Construction field inspection experience ...

City of St. Helens, Oregon

Engineer I

Saint Helens, OR · On-site

$6.3K - $7.6K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Public works or municipal internship experience * Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) * Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software and technology * Construction field inspection experience ...

City of St. Helens, Oregon

Engineer I

Saint Helens, OR · On-site

$6.3K - $7.6K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Public works or municipal internship experience * Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) * Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software and technology * Construction field inspection experience ...

City of West Linn, OR

Civil Engineer

West Linn, OR · On-site

$42.28 - $54.72/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... public infrastructure, field inspections, and assisting the Director of Public Works/City Engineer, Assistant City Engineer, or the Senior Project Engineer in administering general engineering ...

City of Eugene, OR

Civil Engineer 1/2 - Design Team

Eugene, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... inspection and contract management of capital projects in accordance with established schedules, specifications, and standards. Acts as lead representative for public works projects to other City ...

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All JobsPublic Works Inspector JobsPublic Works Inspector Jobs in Oregon

Public Works Inspector information

See Oregon salary details

$20.6K

$67.9K

$97.3K

How much do public works inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works inspector in Oregon is $67,860.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,400.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public works inspector?

Public Works Inspectors are professionals responsible for inspecting construction projects related to public infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, water systems, and public buildings. They ensure that construction and maintenance work complies with municipal codes, safety regulations, and contract specifications. Public Works Inspectors often review plans, conduct site visits, document progress, and address any issues related to quality or compliance. Their work helps ensure public safety and the proper use of public funds by maintaining high standards in community projects.

What does a public works inspector do?

A public works inspector’s primary role is to ensure the safety of water and wastewater systems, and ensure compliance with US EPA regulations. Responsibilities include the inspection and monitoring of conditions and documenting/reporting findings as required by law. Your duties in this job include overseeing the impact of construction projects, requiring the ability to read plans. You may also recommend corrections and repairs to mitigate any negative environmental effects. You work directly with contractors and other utility staff. The position is physically demanding, and may involve shift work. You should be available on an on-call basis during nights and weekends.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public works inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Works Inspector, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, construction codes, and inspection techniques, usually supported by relevant certifications or an associate’s degree in construction management or a related field. Familiarity with inspection software, GIS systems, and the ability to interpret blueprints and technical documents are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are crucial for working with contractors and public stakeholders. These skills ensure infrastructure projects meet regulatory standards, are completed safely, and serve the public interest efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by public works inspectors on construction sites?

Public Works Inspectors often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple contractors, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, and addressing unforeseen site conditions that may impact project timelines. Clear communication and attention to detail are essential, as inspectors must document findings, resolve discrepancies, and ensure safety standards are met. Additionally, balancing multiple projects simultaneously and adapting to variable weather or site conditions are typical aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Public Works Inspector vs Civil Engineer?

AspectPublic Works InspectorCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles require certifications in construction or inspectionBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field; licensure often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, public infrastructure projects, field inspectionsDesign offices, project planning, site supervision
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, government agencies, construction firmsEngineering firms, government agencies, private sector

Public Works Inspectors primarily focus on inspecting construction projects to ensure compliance with codes and standards, working directly on-site. Civil Engineers design, plan, and oversee infrastructure projects, often working in offices and on-site. While both roles are involved in public infrastructure, Inspectors concentrate on enforcement and quality control, whereas Civil Engineers handle design and project planning.

How much do public works inspectors make?

Public works inspectors in California typically earn an average annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. They often work full-time hours, inspecting construction sites, ensuring compliance with safety and building codes, and may require certifications such as NICET or state licensing.
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Public Works Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Inspector job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,860 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Assistant Public Works Director - Operations

Oregoncounties

Oregon City, OR • On-site

$114.10 - $142.49/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Salary: $114,096 – $142,488 DOQ

Located on the bluffs overlooking the iconic Willamette Falls, Oregon City, Oregon, is rich in history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Situated at the confluence of the Willamette and Clackamas Rivers, Oregon City offers a unique blend of smalltown charm and easy access to the amenities of the Portland metropolitan area. Known as “The City at the End of the Oregon Trail,” Oregon City is deeply rooted in history, being the first incorporated city west of the Rocky Mountains and serving as the original capital of the Oregon Territory. Today, with a population of approximately 38,469 residents, Oregon City remains a vital regional hub as the county seat of Clackamas County. The Oregon City area offers an expansive range of recreational opportunities due to its proximity to rivers, excellent golf courses, Mt. Hood, and the Oregon Coast. With its historic downtown, riverfront parks, and scenic trails, Oregon City continues to attract families, professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts who seek a balanced lifestyle blending history, nature, and modern convenience.

Operating with 43 FTEs on a 2025-2027 Biennial Budget of $167.1 million, Oregon City’s Public Works Department is organized into two primary divisions: Engineering and Operations. The Engineering Division oversees capital project delivery, development review, long-range infrastructure planning, and engineering standards, while the Operations Division is responsible for the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and repair of the City’s transportation, drinking water, wastewater, stormwater utility systems, as well as the City’s fleet vehicles and equipment. The department manages the City’s capital improvement program, supports development through engineering review and inspection, ensures compliance with regulatory requirements, and responds to infrastructure needs during emergencies.

Reporting to the Public Works Director – Operations, the Assistant Public Works Director serves as a key member of the department’s leadership team and provides strategic and operational oversight for Oregon City’s Public Works Operations Division. The position supports the delivery of essential public services, including transportation, water distribution, wastewater collection, stormwater management, fleet services, asset management, and other operational functions that collectively support the City’s residents, businesses, and visitors. This position oversees division managers and operational staff while promoting a culture of safety, accountability, professionalism, and service excellence. The position provides guidance and support on operational planning, project delivery, budgeting, procurement, policy implementation, employee development, emergency preparedness, and organizational performance. The Assistant Director serves as a trusted advisor to the Public Works Director and works closely with City leadership, Engineering, Finance, Human Resources, Information Technology, regulatory agencies, partner organizations, and the community.

Education & Experience: A bachelor’s degree in public administration, construction management, business administration, engineering, public works management, or a related field, along with six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in public works or utility operations, infrastructure maintenance, asset or fleet management, construction management, or a related field would be a typical way to qualify for this role. At least three (3) years of supervisory or management experience is required. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.

For a complete position profile, full job description, benefits summary, and to apply online, visit Prothman at https://www.prothman.com/ and click on “Open Recruitments”. For questions, call 206-368-0050. Oregon City is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply by August 23, 2026. (First review, open until filled.)

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