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Public Works Inspector Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

City Engineer

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$98K - $147K/yr

... our Public Works Department. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a growing ... Files inspection reports with the State, as required Reviews Traffic Control Requests in the ...

2026 Project Engineer

Oregon City, OR · On-site

$80K - $111K/yr

The Project Engineer will report to the City Engineer and is located in the Public Works Department ... Coordinates engineering inspections to review compliance with approved designs and plans for ...

Plans Examiner, Senior

OR · On-site

$41.73 - $55.74/hr

Public Works Division: PW LM Building Opening Date: 02/03/2026 Closing Date: Continuous FLSA: Non ... The position also performs inspections for a wide range of building types and construction ...

Showing results 21-40

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 7, 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 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 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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Public Works Inspector jobs in Oregon? For Public Works Inspector jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Public Works Inspector jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Public Works Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Public Works Inspector jobs in OR? For Public Works Inspector jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Public Works Inspector job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,860 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

$98K - $147K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Position Summary The City of McMinnville is seeking a collaborative and forward-thinking City Engineer to help lead and continue building a high-performing engineering program within our Public Works Department. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a growing community while working alongside an exceptional team of dedicated public works professionals who value innovation, trust, and teamwork. In this role, you will not only oversee a diverse portfolio of impactful capital and development projects- you will play a key leadership role in advancing the City's engineering program, mentoring staff, and strengthening partnerships across departments and with the community.

From guiding major infrastructure investments to supporting thoughtful development, the City Engineer has a direct hand in shaping McMinnville's future. You'll join a highly collaborative leadership team that is committed to continuous improvement, transparent decision-making, and delivering high-quality public infrastructure. The position offers the opportunity to influence strategic priorities, develop and empower a talented engineering team, and work on meaningful projects that make a visible difference in the community.

This role is ideal for a motivated professional who is excited to grow in their career, expand their leadership impact, and contribute to a culture that values professional development, innovation, and service. Whether refining systems, leading complex projects, or helping guide long-term planning efforts, the City Engineer will be a key driver in building upon an already strong and successful program. Essential Job Functions ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Engineering Oversight (50%) Develops and recommends project scope for new or improvements to public works facilities.

Based on the size of the project, performs or oversees the planning, design, cost estimating, property acquisition, construction management, start-up, and operation/maintenance preparation services for facility. Prepares requests for proposals and evaluates responses. Assembles and manages team of consultants and City staff for projects.

Reviews development plans, engineering reports, and impact studies for compliance with City policies and procedures and recommends development conditions of approval. Submits review comments to Community Development Director for private development applications. Reviews plans for subdivisions and preliminary subdivisions and partition plats for completeness and compliance to City ordinances, codes and State law.

Distributes plans and preliminary plats internally to other departments and/or other agencies for review and comment. Reviews legal descriptions (e.g., deeds, easements, annexation ordinances). Files inspection reports with the State, as required

Reviews Traffic Control Requests in the context of the MUTCD guidance and recommends solutions. Works with the Airport Administrator to implement operations and maintenance improvements at the airport. Program Development (25%) Develops and recommends goals, objectives, policies and priorities for Department.

Prepares project staff reports and memorandums as required. Responds to inquiries and resolves complaints received from the public. Prepares operating budget, including supporting documentation for the Engineering Division.

Administers the approved budget and oversees the maintenance and monitoring of budgetary controls. Calculates and assesses various fees and charges for new development based on City ordinances, including system development charges, driveway/sidewalk installation fees, and engineering inspection fees. Prepares development agreements for subdivisions, and other privately constructed public infrastructure improvements.

Approves Construction Permit Agreements. Approves and signs Subdivision and Partition Plats. Works with other government agencies to ensure timely receipt of supporting project funds, including application for funds and preparation of necessary reports.

Represents the Engineering Division at the Airport Commission, City Council, Planning Commission, or other committee meetings as required. Serves as liaison for the Department with other City departments, divisions, outside agencies and intergovernmental committees as assigned. Supervision (25%) Manages, coordinates, and supervises the work of direct reports.

Interviews and recommends hiring, disciplinary, and termination actions. Establishes department goals, priorities, and metrics in alignment with the city's goals and objectives. Establishes individual performance expectations and objectives for direct reports.

Selects, supports, and motivates staff. Provides and coordinates staff training and supports professional development goals. Oversees workplace safety programs and policies.

Conducts performance review meetings and produces written performance evaluation documents. Provides coaching for performance improvement and takes appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination, to address performance deficiencies. GENERAL JOB FUNCTIONS: Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, other agencies, and the public.

Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of the classification. Participate in committees when requested. Maintain proficiency in job requirements which may include attending training and meetings, reading materials, and meeting with others in areas of responsibility, which may require travel.

Maintain work areas in a clean and orderly manner. Maintain confidentiality, data integrity, and comply with all related city, state, and federal standards related to confidentiality. Follow all safety rules and procedures established for work areas.

Qualifications REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Any equivalent combination of education and experience which provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the duties as described. A typical way to qualify would be a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and at least 6 years of related experience including at least 2 years supervising experience. This position also requires: Knowledge of: Civil engineering principles and methods.

Computers and software related to drafting and engineering design. Survey principles and practices. Inspection and design principles and practices.

Local, state, and federal codes, requirements and design standards. Property descriptions Public budget administration Skill and Ability to: Operate a variety of computer software programs including AutoCAD software, asset management software, permitting software, and ArcGIS. Prepare documentation and write clear and concise reports.

Interpret and review engineering plans and specifications. Gather and correlate data from a variety of sources. Develop program goals, objectives, and strategies.

Develop policies and procedures. Identify problems, research and analyze relevant information, and develop and present recommendations and justifications for solutions. Exemplify traits that reflect the City's culture, including integrity, customer service orientation, cultural competency, trustworthiness, flexibility, and a willingness to change.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS OR LICENSES: Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in Oregon, or ability to obtain within six months of hire. Class C driver's license valid in the State of Oregon. Supplemental Information WORKING CONDITIONS: This position is designated as an essential employee role, requiring the individual to be available and responsive during regular working hours as well as in the event of unexpected situations, emergencies, or critical operational needs

This may include working outside of regular hours, including weekends or holidays, based on business needs. The position requires regular (60-80%) ability to use dexterity and fine motor skills assemble, build or repair machines or other objects. Continuous (81% of the time) use of office equipment.

The position requires minimal (5-20%) physical effort such as lifting, carrying, or movement, etc. Movements required to complete work are not difficult, and only require some degree of agility and hand eye coordination. The work environment is usually well-protected, with minimal hazards or obstacles (5-20%).

There is little or minimal element of personal risk or hazard. Job conditions are usually comfortable, with minimal (5-20%) issues of confinement, temperature change, incident of noise, or interactions of a disagreeable nature, inside/outside work, dirty conditions, exposure to contagious disease, etc. Driving is a regular responsibility for this position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Responsible for the direct supervision of approximately 6 FTE employees. SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Works under the general direction of the Public Works Director. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Required documents must be provided at the time of application.

Please remove any personal information such as photographs, date of birth, gender, social security number, and other protected information from your documents. Documents containing protected information will be considered incomplete. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Finalists for this position will be subject to a computerized criminal history check, driving record check (if required for position), and education and certification verification. Adverse background information will be reviewed and could result in withdrawal of a conditional job offer or termination of employment. The City of McMinnville does not offer visa sponsorship.

Within three days of hire, you will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States. Positions are subject to budget consideration and approval. For the candidate who is hired into this position, salary placement will be based on guidelines in the handbook or association agreement (as applicable) to assess education and experience.

For this reason, please be sure to include everything in your application that you want considered towards placement. The City of McMinnville only accepts applications through our online application system at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/Mcminnville. We want you to be successful in applying with us

We highly encourage you to complete and submit your application in advance of the deadline. For technical assistance, please call (855) 524-5627. The City of McMinnville is an equal opportunity employer.

Applicants with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation (e.g., assistive listening devices) to participate in the recruitment and/or selection process should contact Vicki Hedges, Human Resources Director. The City of McMinnville is proud to hire veterans. Applicants are eligible to use Veteran's Preference in accordance with ORS 408.225, 408.230 and 408.235; and OAR 105-040-0010 and 105-040-0015

Military personnel who expect to be honorably discharged from the military within 120 days of certifying veteran status on this job application, may also request preference. Preference will only be given if the applicant meets the minimum qualifications and any special qualifications for the position and they electronically attach the required documentation at the time of application. DOCUMENTS REQUIRED: MEMBER COPY 4 of the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD Form 214 or 215) - OR - Letter from the US Dept.

of Veterans Affairs indicating a non-service connected pension. If you need to request a copy of your DD-214, click here. Disabled Veterans must also submit a copy of their Veterans disability preference letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

For information regarding Veteran's Preference qualifications, visit the following website: https://www.oregon.gov/boli/workers/Pages/veterans-preference.aspx The City of McMinnville prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at the City of McMinnville are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, age, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, ability, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state and federal law

We do not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics. The City of McMinnville is dedicated to fostering a fair and inclusive environment in all aspects of our employment practices, including recruitment, hiring, retention, promotion, and training. We are also committed to supporting leadership development in the broader McMinnville community and working toward a welcoming and respectful atmosphere for everyone.

We encourage candidates who align with these principles to join us in contributing to a stronger and more unified McMinnville.