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Public Works Inspector Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

City of Memphis, TN

Pollution Control Aide

Memphis, TN · On-site

$47K/yr

Salary Range:$47,903.18 -$47,903.18 Works under supervision of the assigned supervisor in the Public Works Division. Assists in conducting inspections of drainage systems or sewer lines and connected ...

The City of La Vergne

Sewer - Laborer II

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$20.84/hr

... La Vergne's Public Works team, you're not just taking a job; you're building a career with ... Inspect and/or repair streets, drainage systems, and sanitary sewer systems at frequent intervals ...

TERRACON

Staff Engineer

Bartlett, TN · On-site

... and inspection, and the writing, preparation, and review of related reports for the services ... example public works, transportation, commercial, communications, energy, and industrial.

TERRACON

Staff Engineer

Bartlett, TN · On-site

... and inspection, and the writing, preparation, and review of related reports for the services ... example public works, transportation, commercial, communications, energy, and industrial.

Tempo Nashville

Housekeeping Inspector

Nashville, TN · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

When needed, clean guest rooms and public areas. Report any deficiency and equipment malfunctions ... Is organized, honest, and works well with others * Maintain a clean and attractive work area ...

Hampton Inn Kimball

Housekeeping Inspector

Kimball, TN

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

When needed, clean guest rooms and public areas. Report any deficiency and equipment malfunctions ... Is organized, honest, and works well with others * Maintain a clean and attractive work area ...

Pavement Restorations Inc.

Paving Foreman

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Inspect completed work for conformance to specifications and direct corrective actions if necessary ... Experience with public works or municipal projects. * Fluent in English and Spanish. * First aid ...

Public Building Authority

Be Seen First

Safety & Security Officer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.51/hr

The Public Building Authority (PBA) is a joint public, non-profit organization created by Knox ... Governed by an 11-member board appointed by county and city leaders, the PBA works to deliver cost ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPublic Works Inspector JobsPublic Works Inspector Jobs in Tennessee

Public Works Inspector information

See Tennessee salary details

$17.7K

$58.3K

$83.5K

How much do public works inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works inspector in Tennessee is $58,254.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,800.00 and $70,300.00 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 Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,254 per year, or $28 per hour.

Plumbing Inspector (Code Enforcement)

Shelby County Sheriff's Office

Memphis, TN • On-site

$46K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description


Position Summary
Works under general supervision in making inspections of plumbing installations for conformance to Shelby County Plumbing Codes.
Pay Grade: 51
Salary Commensurate with Experience and Education
Minimum Qualifications
  • Five (5) years of experience as a licensed Journeyman Plumber or State of Tennessee License Plumbing Contractor, of which three (3) years as a foreman or supervisor; AND
  • High school diploma or possess a GED.
  • PROOF OF EDUCATION, TRAINING AND/OR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Examines plans and inspects all new plumbing, septic systems, swimming pools and house trailers (for piping) and checks sanitary conditions.
  • Enforces inspection procedures in relation to the County Plumbing Code and County and State law.
  • Advises of certification of disapproval of inspections indicating specific code violations.
  • Maintains and analyzes records to determine trends which might require special emphasis training or policy.
  • Discusses code interpretations with citizens, contractors and plumbers.
  • Discusses code interpretations and technical developments with other inspectors.
  • Performs other related duties as required or directed.

KSAs
  • Thorough knowledge of the Memphis & Shelby County Joint Plumbing Code and the ability to interpret as required.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work with plumbing contractors and the public.
  • Ability to analyze trends in plumbing code violations.
  • Ability to train plumbing inspectors when required.

Special Requirements
  • Must possess State of Tennessee Driver's License or secure one upon date of employment.
  • Must have State of Tennessee Certification as a Plumbing Inspector or obtain the same within one (1) year of hire date.
  • Must pass a physical examination.

Physical Requirements
  • Must possess the physical dexterity to access all areas during construction including, but not limited to, stooping, climbing ladders, accessing attics and walking on uneven terrain.
  • Exposure to areas under construction.

Disclaimer
This position is subject to a background check for any convictions that have a substantial relationship to potential job duties. Only convictions that are substantially related to potential job duties will be considered and will not automatically disqualify the candidate.
Shelby County Resident Disclaimer
All employees hired after September 1, 1986, must be residents of Shelby County and shall continue to reside in the County as a condition of their employment. The residency requirement shall not apply to certain public safety/civil service employees. This means exemption from this policy is in effect for the following departments and positions: (1) Sheriff Deputy Patrol Officers, Deputy Jailers and Dispatchers, employed by the Sheriff Department, (2) Correction Officers employed by the Division of Corrections, (3) Firefighters, Paramedics and Dispatchers employed by the Shelby County Fire Department. The residency exemption for public safety/civil service employees does not include Appointed positions with Sheriff's Office, Division of Corrections or the Fire Department.

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