ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

kennedyjc

Construction Inspector

San Diego, CA · On-site

$50/hr

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

City of Poway, CA

Contract Specialist/Inspector

Poway, CA · On-site

$82K - $99K/yr

Public Works Division: Facilities Maintenance Opening Date: 08/05/2026 Closing Date: 9/9/2026 11:59 ... Conducts inspections and oversees contract operations related to security and fire alarm systems ...

Cumming Group

Project Manager

San Diego, 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

San Diego, 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

San Diego, CA · On-site

$115 - $154/hr

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 ...

City of Menifee

Management Analyst I/II

Menifee, CA · On-site

$91K - $128K/yr

... and Public Works, each committed to supporting the city's mission of responsive governance ... The Building and Safety Division is responsible for building plan review, permitting, inspections ...

City of Menifee, CA

Management Analyst I/II

Menifee, CA · On-site

$91K - $128K/yr

... and Public Works, each committed to supporting the city's mission of responsive governance ... The position will analyze permitting and inspection data, evaluate trends and workloads, prepare ...

Kleinfelder, Inc.

Resident Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$132.44 - $191/hr

Manage and administer the construction of transportation and/or public works projects. * Provide ... Review inspectors' daily and weekly diaries. * Read and interpret plans and specifications.

Kleinfelder Inc

Resident Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$132.44 - $191/hr

Manage and administer the construction of transportation and/or public works projects. * Provide ... Review inspectors' daily and weekly diaries. * Read and interpret plans and specifications.

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

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

Public Works Inspector information

See Oceanside, CA salary details

$20.2K

$66.4K

$95.2K

How much do public works inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works inspector in Oceanside, CA is $66,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $80,200.00 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.
More about Public Works Inspector jobs

What are popular job titles related to Public Works Inspector jobs in Oceanside, CA?

For Public Works Inspector jobs in Oceanside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Oceanside, CA are hiring for Public Works Inspector jobs?

Cities near Oceanside, CA with the most Public Works Inspector job openings:

Public Works Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Inspector job openings in Oceanside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,400 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Construction Inspector - TRC oncall

Kennedyjenks

San Diego, CA • On-site

$56.83 - $80.93/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Construction Inspector to support our growing infrastructure projects. This role ensures quality assurance and compliance for construction projects, in the water and wastewater sector.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct inspections to ensure contractor work aligns with plans, specifications, and quality standards.
  • Prepare daily reports, including written documentation and photo logs.
  • Assist with material testing and special inspection activities.
  • Review contractor submittals and as‑built drawings.
  • Ensure compliance with public, regulatory, and permitting agencies, including SWPPP.
  • Support project commissioning and startup activities.
  • Participate in progress meetings and interact with clients as needed.
  • Work under the direct supervision of the Construction Manager (CM), Resident Engineer, or Lead Inspector.
What We’re Looking For
  • Education & Experience: Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience. 3 years of experience working in water/wastewater infrastructure is required.
  • Technical Skills: Familiarity with construction blueprints, specifications, and applicable codes.
  • Software Proficiency: Microsoft Office, inspection tools, and reporting systems.
  • Communication & Collaboration: Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and within a team.
Work Environment & Physical Demands
  • Fieldwork includes exposure to varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, construction noise, and potential hazardous materials.
  • Strict adherence to safety protocols is required, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Hourly Pay Rate

For this position is anticipated to be $50.00 per hour, and may vary based upon education, experience, qualifications, skills, licensure/certifications, seniority and geographic location. Many of KJ’s California public works projects are prevailing wage projects; therefore, KJ matches the prevailing wage requirements; many times, prevailing wage is higher than base pay rate.

Benefits summary

Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401k, bonus opportunities, tuition reimbursement, professional registration support, a competitive PTO and holiday plan, and other benefits and programs.

Kennedy Jenks is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy and pregnancy‑related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, disability, citizenship status, genetics, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply