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

kennedyjc

Construction Inspector

Lancaster, CA · On-site

$50/hr

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Construction Inspector with pipeline experience in California to support ... Many of our California public works projects are subject to prevailing wage, often exceeding base ...

kennedyjc

Construction Inspector

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$50/hr

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Construction Inspector with pipeline experience in California to support ... Many of our California public works projects are subject to prevailing wage, often exceeding base ...

Kennedy Jenks

Construction Inspector

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$50/hr

Conduct inspections to ensure contractor work aligns with plans, specifications, and quality ... Many of our California public works projects are subject to prevailing wage, often exceeding base ...

Cumming Group

Project Manager

Palmdale, CA · On-site

Our public works team are prime consultants to various municipality, county, state, and public ... Coordinate with Inspector of Record (IOR), Fire Marshall, and other regulatory agencies to ...

Cumming Group

Project Manager

Palmdale, CA · On-site

Our public works team are prime consultants to various municipality, county, state, and public ... Coordinate with Inspector of Record (IOR), Fire Marshall, and other regulatory agencies to ...

The Contractor Consultants

Class A Driver

Phelan, CA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Equipment Operator / Class A Driver - Heavy Construction & Public Works for JERGENSEN CONSTRUCTION ... Execute pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections to uphold zero-accident safety standards.

JERGENSEN CONSTRUCTION INC

Class A Driver

Phelan, CA

$40 - $50/hr

Equipment Operator / Class A Driver - Heavy Construction & Public Works for JERGENSEN CONSTRUCTION ... Execute pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections to uphold zero-accident safety standards.

Posted today

RimePro Inc

Civil Design Engineer

Valencia, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Coordinate with contractors and inspectors to resolve issues in the field Quality & Documentation ... public works) * EIT required; PE in progress or recently obtained is a big plus * Strong Civil 3D ...

Centerline Drivers

OTR Class A Driver

Lancaster, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Forklift, Strapping • Perform pre-and post-trip inspections • Keep equipment clean and ... the Department of Public Works (DAA), Bureau of Contract Administration. We are an equal ...

Centerline Drivers

OTR Class A Driver

Lancaster, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Forklift, Strapping • Perform pre-and post-trip inspections • Keep equipment clean and ... the Department of Public Works (DAA), Bureau of Contract Administration. We are an equal ...

JWCH Institute

Dental Assistant

Lancaster, CA · On-site

$48K - $52K/yr

JWCH works to assist patients with navigating barriers and helping them achieve better oral health ... Remove sutures after the site inspection by the dentist. * Apply topical fluoride. * Place and ...

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

Public Works Inspector information

See Lancaster, CA salary details

$20.6K

$67.8K

$97.2K

How much do public works inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works inspector in Lancaster, CA is $67,817.00, 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 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 Lancaster, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,817 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Public Works Inspector - Water Pipeline

Santa Clarita, CA • On-site

SA Associates
See more jobs at SA Associatesexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

A southern California-based construction management & engineering firm has an immediate need for experienced public works construction inspectors with storm drain inspection experience supporting a water pipeline project in Santa Clarita, CA for 6+ months.

Job Description

Under general supervision of the City Engineer, performs construction inspection duties and quality assurance on public works and development projects related to general improvements to concrete, water mains, and general underground utilities. Ensure compliance with City standards, codes, designs, and specifications.


Responsibilities:

Supervises and manages public works construction projects. This entails assuring the contractor’s work conforms to the project specifications and is accomplished by inspecting the contractor’s work on a daily basis; by keeping a daily record of instructions and directions given to the contractor regarding plan and specification interpretation and any required change orders; coordinating with an independent testing lab any materials testing required by project specifications; by verifying quantities for payment on contractor’s monthly pay request; by coordinating construction activities with residents, utility companies and other agencies; by providing for public safety during the project.

  • Assigns, monitors, and coordinates fieldwork.
  • Inspects and performs oversight on other agencies, utility companies, and contractors working within City boundaries and City right-of-way to ensure public safety and ensure the protection of City facilities; reviews and approves traffic control plans and coordinates road closures if required
  • Reviews and issues excavation permits and inspects all road cuts for other agencies and contractors working within City boundaries (whether for water, gas, sewer, telephone, etc.)
  • Inspects and performs oversight on the installation of water pipelines, sewer and storm drains.
  • Conducts construction site inspections for compliance with site SWPPP and City Storm Water Management Ordinance.
  • Answers technical questions and provides information to public and other agencies.
  • Responds to and resolves public inquiries and complaints related to public works construction projects and development.
  • Attends and participates in preconstruction meetings with department staff, engineers, contractors, developers, and other organizations.
  • Coordinates and conducts progress meetings with contractors, City departments, and other agencies.
  • Assists engineering staff with surveying, drafting, specifications, and bidding documents; reviews plans prior to final department approval.
  • Assists engineering staff with infrastructure inventories and maintenance of records.
  • Perform construction inspection, oversight, and enforcement of contract/permit documents for construction of various road, bridge, aviation, sewer, water, utility service, traffic signal, and flood control projects being constructed by contractors under a contract or a permit issued by the Department.
  • Prepare and process change orders, daily logs, and working day statements; collect work records; maintain accurate records of work done for payment purposes; conduct employee interviews; prepare as-built plans and perform other associated contract administration tasks.
  • Reject work that does not meet permit requirements and issue notices to correct deficiencies.

  • Graduation from high school and four (4) years of experience in public works construction or any equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Considerable knowledge of public works construction management, concrete and steel water tank inspection, methods and materials; knowledge of contract administration and pay estimates.
  • Prior inspection experience on water pipelines /water mains.
  • Ability to read and interpret plans and specifications; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, contractors, other departments, and the public; ability to follow written and oral instructions; ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.