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Public Works Inspector Jobs in Chico, CA (NOW HIRING)

City of Chico

Assistant Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

Position Information This recruitment is to fill one vacancy within the Public Works - Engineering ... Organizes bridge inspection reports, compiles bridge investment credit requests, and submits to ...

City of Chico

Associate Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$102K - $137K/yr

... with inspectors, engineers, and contractors; issues task orders; reviews and negotiates change orders for management approval. Coordinates public works construction improvements with utility ...

City of Chico, CA

Associate Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$102K - $137K/yr

... with inspectors, engineers, and contractors; issues task orders; reviews and negotiates change orders for management approval. * Coordinates public works construction improvements with utility ...

City of Chico, CA

Assistant Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

Public Works Engineering Opening Date: 07/27/2026 Closing Date: 10/31/2026 11:59 PM Pacific ... Organizes bridge inspection reports, compiles bridge investment credit requests, and submits to ...

Psomas

Resident Engineer / Construction Manager

Chico, CA · On-site

$145K - $208K/yr

... public works infrastructure projects in Chico , the Northern Sacramento Valley , and surrounding ... Coordinate inspectors, materials testing resources, subconsultants, and field staff to support ...

Psomas

Resident Engineer /Construction Manager

Chico, CA · On-site

$145K - $208K/yr

... public works infrastructure projects in Chico, the Northern Sacramento Valley, and surrounding ... Coordinate inspectors, materials testing resources, subconsultants, and field staff to support ...

NV5

Project Engineer - Geotechnical

Chico, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Testing, Inspection & Consulting; Infrastructure; Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences ... Public Works, Resort Structural, or DSA/HCAI projects) * Requires knowledge of standard engineering ...

Butte County, CA

Heavy Equipment Operator

Oroville, CA · On-site

$49K - $66K/yr

Public Works Department Opening Date: 07/21/2026 Closing Date: 8/18/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Summary ... Performs routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment; cleans equipment.

All JobsPublic Works Inspector JobsPublic Works Inspector Jobs in Chico, CA

Public Works Inspector information

See Chico, CA salary details

$19.8K

$65.3K

$93.6K

How much do public works inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works inspector in Chico, CA is $65,276.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $78,800.00 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.

More about Public Works Inspector jobs
What are popular job titles related to Public Works Inspector jobs in Chico, CA? For Public Works Inspector jobs in Chico, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Chico, CA are hiring for Public Works Inspector jobs? Cities near Chico, CA with the most Public Works Inspector job openings:
Public Works Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Inspector job openings in Chico, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,276 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Senior Public Works Construction Project Manager, on-site

California Construction Authority

Chico, CA • On-site

$13K - $19K/mo

Contractor

Posted 17 days ago

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Job description

The California Construction Authority (CCA) is seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager (Consultant) to support the delivery of complex public works capital construction projects on a project-specific basis.

Working under a defined scope of services and exercising independent professional judgment, the Consultant will serve as the lead project manager responsible for delivering the project, including planning, design coordination, procurement, construction, and closeout for projects valued up to $30 million or more.

Overview:

Senior Project Manager – Public Works Construction (Contract/1099)

Service Location: Silver Dollar Fairgrounds, 2357 Fair Street, Chico, California (Onsite)

Engagement Type: Independent Contractor (1099 Consultant)

Project Duration: Approximately 12–18 months, or through project completion

Compensation: Negotiated not-to-exceed contract amount or hourly rate, commensurate with experience.
Monthly fee range: $13,840.00 – $19,003.001

Submittal Deadline: Open until filled. First review of submittals begins July 1, 2026.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management & Leadership

  • Lead all phases of project delivery from project initiation through closeout
  • Develop and maintain project management plans, schedules, and critical path timelines
  • Manage multiple concurrent priorities and ensure timely project delivery
  • Monitor project progress for schedule, budget, and quality compliance

Construction Administration

  • Oversee contractors, consultants, architects, engineers, and inspectors
  • Manage RFIs, submittals, shop drawings, change orders, and contractor schedules
  • Conduct project meetings (pre-construction, progress, coordination)
  • Ensure field work complies with contract documents, safety requirements, and quality standards

Public Works Contract Administration

  • Administer construction and professional service contracts in accordance with public procurement laws
  • Support competitive bidding processes including advertisement, evaluation, and contract award
  • Review procurement and contract documents for regulatory compliance
  • Monitor contractor performance and enforce contract provisions

Budget & Cost Control

  • Develop and track project budgets, forecasts, and expenditures
  • Review pay applications, invoices, and change order requests
  • Monitor contingency and recommend corrective actions as needed
  • Coordinate with agency staff on project funding and financial reporting

Regulatory Compliance

  • Ensure compliance with:
    • California Labor Code and DIR requirements
    • Prevailing wage and certified payroll requirements
    • OSHA and safety regulations
    • Applicable building codes and permitting requirements
  • Coordinate with regulatory agencies for approvals and inspections

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field
  • 7–10 years of progressively responsible experience in construction project management
  • Minimum 5 years managing public works projects exceeding $10 million
  • Demonstrated experience delivering capital projects up to $30 million or greater (preferred)
  • Valid OSHA 10 Certification (OSHA 30 preferred)
  • Valid California Driver’s License

Desired Skills & Technical Expertise

  • Construction scheduling (Primavera P6, MS Project, or equivalent)
  • Critical path method (CPM) scheduling analysis
  • Cost estimating, forecasting, and budget control
  • RFI, submittal, and shop drawing review processes
  • Change order management and negotiation
  • Construction document control systems
  • Claims management and dispute resolution
  • QA/QC coordination and inspection oversight

Preferred Certifications

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)
  • Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
  • Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) Certification
  • Professional Engineer (PE) License
  • LEED Accreditation
  • Certified Public Works Professional

Work Environment & Requirements

  • Consultant resides in or near the greater Chico area
  • Daily site presence expected to meet project needs
  • Combination of office and active construction site work
  • Ability to travel between project locations as needed
  • Occasional extended hours to support construction activities

Company Description

CCA provides the construction program management for the state's network of fairgrounds. The organization manages over 30 fairground properties, with 140+ active projects with a portfolio value of $200M+. Projects range from paving and roofing to renovations and complete design and build for facilities providing year round events.