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Public Works Inspector Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$81K - $159K/yr

... Inspections and Permits. The Engineering Division is responsible for the review and approval of ... Reviews cost estimates associated with Public Works Agreements and grading bonds. Coordinates ...

Conduct field inspections of projects to monitor progress, identify issues, and ensure compliance ... Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in public works, street ...

Showing results 21-40

Public Works Inspector information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$19.4K

$63.8K

$91.4K

How much do public works inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works inspector in Baltimore, MD is $63,775.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,200.00 and $77,000.00 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 Baltimore, MD?

For Public Works Inspector jobs in Baltimore, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Works Inspector jobs in Baltimore, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Works Inspector jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

Infographic showing various Public Works Inspector job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,775 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Engineering Specialist III - Public Works, Engineering/Utility Design

Howard County Government

Ellicott City, MD

$95K - $183K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY/CLASS DESCRIPTION Howard County: Conveniently located in the heart of central Maryland between Baltimore and Washington, Howard County offers the charm of a historic past mixed with the excitement of a cosmopolitan community. Howard County Government: Howard County Government is a leader in innovation, sustainability, and consistently ranked as one of the best places to live and work in the country. In 2025, Howard County Government received a record-breaking 83 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) - the highest number of annual NACo awards achieved in the history of the State of Maryland, and the highest number of awards out of any county in the State of Maryland which received a collective 136 awards.

NACo is the leading organization representing county-level government operations. These awards recognize innovative and transformative programs that provide new services for county residents, improve existing programs, upgrade working conditions, and enhance citizen participation and public policymaking. What are we looking for.

We are looking for outstanding individuals to join our team and contribute to excellence in Howard County operations. What you'll like most about working at Howard County Government: We are committed to workplace excellence in every area of County government. We have a highly talented, diverse, and inclusive workplace.

Your input will not only be heard, but it will be encouraged. We offer competitive compensation and great benefits including medical, retirement, and wellness programs. As a member of the Howard County Government team, you'll be helping drive our culture and directly impact what makes us an amazing place to work.

POSITION SUMMARY: Advanced professional engineering work at the full performance level involving overseeing and directing the activities of County or consultant engineers, surveyors, inspectors, contractors and/or other professionals in the course of implementing the water and sewer capital improvement programs. STARTING SALARY HIRING RANGE: $45.68 - $51.52 $95,019 - $107,162 CLASS DESCRIPTION: Performs advanced professional level engineering and/or architectural work, which may include supervisory responsibility, with considerable independence but under general supervision from an administrative or technical superior. Work includes reviewing complex engineering and/or architectural plans, resolving difficult design analysis, acting as project manager for large scale projects, and preparing planning and engineering documents

Work at this level is distinguished by unique engineering analysis and expertise in areas such as mechanical, electrical or structural engineering; in depth architectural experience in the development, design and construction of institutional building types such as libraries, community centers, police and fire stations, etc. *This is a Classified position, meaning that it is a part of the Howard County Classified Service upon completion of a probationary period of at least six (6) months* ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES PROJECT AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT: Acts as project engineer/project manager for complex water and sewer capital projects requiring process and mechanical engineering skills and experience, including projects involving actuating water valve vaults, water and wastewater pumping stations, water storage facilities, and wastewater treatment facilities. Acts as program manager for portfolios of related water/wastewater facility infrastructure projects and for the development and implementation of asset management for assigned programs.

Coordinates multiple projects, schedules and monitors contracts to ensure successful completion and closeout. Participates in internal review board meetings and may direct such meetings in supervisor's absence. Represents the department at public hearings, meetings, and conferences as assigned.

TECHNICAL ENGINEERING DUTIES: Performs engineering studies and analyses to ensure that water and sewer system facilities and appurtenances are properly sized, constructed, operated, and maintained. Assures that new facilities and equipment meet operational requirements and specifications. Reviews preliminary and final plans, drawings, and specifications for new facilities for operational integrity and maintainability.

Carries out special engineering projects and submits recommendations for alternatives and solutions. BUDGETING, SCHEDULING, AND FISCAL OVERSIGHT: Responsible for project budgets and schedules, including work plan development, consultant selection, negotiations for scope of services, man-hour projections, and contract preparation. Prepares and reviews budgets and cost estimates; monitors and manages fiscal status of design and construction contracts.

Practices cost control to minimize total County project costs. Forecasts future budgetary needs to support the Department's financial planning process. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Acts in the capacity of Chief, Utility Design Division with the authority and responsibilities of the position during the absence of the Division's Engineering Manager I.

MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE Bachelor's Degree in Engineering and four (4) years related experience. REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, AND REGISTRATIONS: Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Maryland. Valid Class Driver's License or equivalent issued by state of residence.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear.

The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The work will involve office and field situations.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to construction sites, heavy construction equipment, wet and/or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, and outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. LANGUAGE SKILLS, MATHEMATICAL SKILLS, AND REASONING ABILITY: Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.

Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to apply advanced mathematical concepts such as exponents, logarithms, quadratic equations, and permutations.

Ability to apply mathematical operations to such tasks as frequency distribution, determination of test reliability and validity, analysis of variance, correlation techniques, sampling theory, and factor analysis. Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form that deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: TO APPLY: You must complete an employment application online to be considered for this recruitment. Resumes cannot be substituted for completion of the job application work history. No paper applications will be accepted.

Selected candidates may be subject to drug screening, background screening, and reference checks. At time of application, please submit a copy of any college degree, coursework, licenses, or certifications that you have referenced on your application. Applicants who have education obtained outside of the U.S

may need to provide proof of the equivalent U.S. education as determined by a foreign credential evaluation service, such as the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (http://www.naces.org) or World Education Services: International Credential Evaluation (https://www.wes.org/). Howard County Government is not sponsoring employees in application of the H-1B Visa or providing an extension of an existing H-1B Visa

All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Howard County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, and we are committed to a workplace that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. The County prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, ancestry, creed, national origin, disability status, genetics, marital status, military service, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Applicants requiring accommodations during the hiring process should contact the Office of Human Resources directly at HiringPreference@howardcountymd.gov. Requests for accommodations should not be attached to the application.