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Public Works Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

T&ES Inspector I / II

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$52K - $97K/yr

Inspector I/II An Overview The Department of Transportation & Environmental Services (T&ES) Public Works Services Division is seeking an Inspector I or II to perform skilled inspection work related ...

What We're Looking For * 2+ years of experience in stormwater, environmental consulting, construction inspection, public works, or a related field. * Experience inspecting or maintaining stormwater ...

What We're Looking For * 2+ years of experience in stormwater, environmental consulting, construction inspection, public works, or a related field. * Experience inspecting or maintaining stormwater ...

Motor Equipment Operator

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$50K - $88K/yr

Inspect & Maintain Equipment: Conduct daily inspections and perform routine maintenance and minor ... Wastewater Management is part of the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES ...

Showing results 41-60

Public Works Inspector information

See Virginia salary details

$19.3K

$63.6K

$91.2K

How much do public works inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works inspector in Virginia is $63,633.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,100.00 and $76,800.00 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 job categories do people searching Public Works Inspector jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Public Works Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Public Works Inspector jobs in VA? For Public Works Inspector jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Public Works Inspector job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,633 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Utility Pipeline and Facility Inspector - Water/Wastewater

Whitman, Requardt & Associates, LLP

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired 6 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

At Whitman, Requardt & Associates, LLP, we are People Focused and Project Driven . We have been in business for more than 110 years and we are known for our quality work and quality employees. This is your chance to join our team - help us to design the infrastructure and buildings that improve the world! WRA is currently seeking Utility Construction Inspectors for our growing team in the Northern Virginia area. The Construction Inspector is responsible for providing daily construction management and inspection services for water and wastewater projects. Projects include large and complex pump stations, linear pipe replacements and repairs, facility upgrades for treatment plants and/or pump stations. Duties and responsibilities may include: Construction management Performing field inspection of Contractor's operations to see that they comply with contract documents Inspection of full scope of work, including electrical and mechanical systems, and other equipment associated with pump stations and other similar utility facilities where required. Preparing daily and weekly reports on work accomplished by Contractor; coordinating and observing materials testing and maintaining testing logs Reviewing periodic pay estimates for accuracy with Contractor Preparing sketches and assembling data for Engineer's use in making changes to the project (PCOs) Keeping diaries and making reports on work accomplished and/or noted deficiencies; performing sophisticated, complicated mathematical calculations Communicating effectively with the Engineer, Owner and Owner’s operational and field staff on a regular basis, keeping them apprised of field conditions and maintaining active communications and excellent rapport with the Owner and the entire project team throughout the construction process Requirements: 3+ years of experience in any of the specified areas listed below. Utilities including but not limited to pipeline installation, replacement, and rehabilitation. Pumping Stations including new construction or rehabilitation. Treatment Plants including upgrades or rehabilitation and new construction for facility expansions. Water Tanks including tank rehabilitation and repairs. HS diploma or equivalency certificate required. BS Degree, AA Construction Management or apprenticeship training in Electrical/Mechanical/Plumbing preferred. Must have good communication skills Must have the ability to read/interpret plans and specifications; writing and drawing skills necessary to complete inspection reports. Basic computer skills are required for completing electronic inspection reports including familiarity with software for project document control. Experience utilizing e-Construction software such as Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud (Plangrid), FieldWire, BlueBeam, CityWorks or Sharepoint. Applicant must have a valid driver’s license and personal vehicle for travel to and from assigned construction sites. All projects require monitoring the contractor’s work for conformance to the design contract plans, specifications and general permit requirements, tracking daily quantities, completing daily electronic inspection reports, reviewing payment requisitions, maintaining field construction documentation and as-built drawings. Specific experience with regional Public Works and Utility agencies preferred. Construction software experience preferred. Additional Preferred Training or Certifications: NASSCO certifications desirable including NASSCO-ITCP/CIPP/MR for sanitary sewer pipeline and manhole repairs/rehabilitation. DEQ Sediment & erosion control certifications Certification in Intermediate Work Zone Safety Traffic Control VDOT materials certifications desirable including Asphalt, Concrete, and Soils & Aggregate desirable. OSHA safety training. ACI Concrete Testing Technician Level I Physical Requirements (Essential Functions): This position requires the ability to perform a variety of physical tasks in the field as part of the essential job functions. Duties may include: Walking and navigating across rough or uneven terrain such as mud, rocks, grass, dirt, steep hillsides, heavily wooded areas, and other unpaved surfaces Moving around active project sites, which may involve climbing ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, or poles Performing physical activities such as bending, twisting, kneeling, and climbing Remaining in a stationary position—either standing or sitting—for extended periods of time Repetitive motions involving the wrists, hands, and/or fingers Lifting objects weighing up to 50 pounds and/or carting objects up to 50 lbs distances up to 50 yards. Driving to and from project sites which may involve distances of up to or exceeding 75 miles round trip. Must be able to function safely in an environment with potential risks, including, but not limited to those described in this document. The work environment may include exposure to a range of environmental conditions, including high and low temperatures, precipitation, and other outdoor elements. Work may also be performed in noisy conditions or confined/enclosed spaces. Must be willing to work nights and overtime, when required by the project assignment Benefits: WRA recognizes that employees play an important role in its success. Our commitment to full-time employees is reflected in the comprehensive benefits package we offer: Flexible work schedule options Competitive salary Leave accrual and paid holidays Healthcare benefits Group Life Insurance, as well as additional optional life Insurance, short and long term disability insurance Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care reimbursement 401(k) Retirement Plan Tuition Reimbursement Employee Assistance Program Parental and maternity leave benefits WRA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and complies with all applicable anti-discrimination laws. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship now or in the future. WRA will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work visa status for this opportunity. (no sponsorship is available for H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1, E-3, H-1B1, F-1, J-1, OPT, CPT or any other employment-based visa) ***** Not accepting resumes from 3rd party recruiters for this position ***** Position #3206