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Public Works Inspector Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Kerr Contractors

Project Engineer

Woodburn, OR · On-site

... and inspections, material certifications, etc. * Perform document control duties including ... Experience working on heavy civil contracts for public works and private owners for a variety of ...

Multnomah County

Engineer 3 (Bridges)

Portland, OR · On-site

$58.81 - $72.34/hr

Manage a variety of bridge and other public works projects from conception through construction and ... Negotiate change orders, pay contractors, and manage construction inspectors * Check and approve ...

Multnomah County, OR

Engineer 3 (Bridges)

Portland, OR · Hybrid

$58.81 - $72.34/hr

Manage a variety of bridge and other public works projects from conception through construction and ... Negotiate change orders, pay contractors, and manage construction inspectors * Check and approve ...

Fulcrum Construction & Building Services, LLC

Be Seen First

Construction Project Engineer

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Conduct site visits and quality control inspections to verify compliance with contract documents ... We specialize in commercial, multi-family, residential, and public works projects. Our expertise ...

MWH

Superintendent- Concrete - MWH

Gresham, OR

$140K - $160K/yr

Collaborate with project team, QC inspectors, and owners to maintain schedule and resolve field ... public works projects. * Strong knowledge of formwork systems (Symons, EFCO, Peri, etc.), layout ...

MWH

Building Superintendent

Gresham, OR · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Collaborate with project team, QC inspectors, and owners to maintain schedule and resolve field ... public works projects. * Strong knowledge of formwork systems (Symons, EFCO, Peri, etc.), layout ...

MWH

Building Superintendent

Gresham, OR

$140K - $160K/yr

Collaborate with project team, QC inspectors, and owners to maintain schedule and resolve field ... public works projects. * Strong knowledge of formwork systems (Symons, EFCO, Peri, etc.), layout ...

MWH

Building Superintendent

Gresham, OR

$140K - $160K/yr

Collaborate with project team, QC inspectors, and owners to maintain schedule and resolve field ... public works projects. * Strong knowledge of formwork systems (Symons, EFCO, Peri, etc.), layout ...

MWH

Superintendent- Concrete - MWH

Gresham, OR · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Collaborate with project team, QC inspectors, and owners to maintain schedule and resolve field ... public works projects. * Strong knowledge of formwork systems (Symons, EFCO, Peri, etc.), layout ...

MWH

Superintendent- Concrete - MWH

Gresham, OR

$140K - $160K/yr

Collaborate with project team, QC inspectors, and owners to maintain schedule and resolve field ... public works projects. * Strong knowledge of formwork systems (Symons, EFCO, Peri, etc.), layout ...

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All JobsPublic Works Inspector JobsPublic Works Inspector Jobs in Portland, OR

Public Works Inspector information

See Portland, OR salary details

$20.7K

$68.1K

$97.6K

How much do public works inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works inspector in Portland, OR is $68,067.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,600.00 and $82,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Public Works Inspectors?

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.

How much do inspectors make per inspection?

Public Works Inspectors typically do not get paid per inspection but earn an hourly or salary wage, which can range from $20 to $40 per hour depending on experience, location, and employer. Some projects may offer additional pay for overtime or specialized inspections, but payment per inspection is uncommon in this 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.

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.

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 type of inspectors make the most money?

Construction and building inspectors, including those working in specialized fields like electrical or plumbing inspection, tend to earn higher salaries among public works inspectors. Senior inspectors with certifications and extensive experience, especially in large projects or government agencies, typically have higher earning potential.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Public Works Inspectors typically do not earn $2000 a day; their salaries are usually based on annual pay scales. High-paying jobs that can reach this level often include specialized roles such as senior project managers, construction executives, or consultants with extensive experience and certifications, especially in large infrastructure projects. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and significant responsibility, and may involve long hours or project-based compensation structures.
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Public Works Inspector jobs near you
Senior Transportation Engineer

Senior Transportation Engineer

AKS Engineering & Forestry, LLC

Tualatin, OR • On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

Other

Posted 12 hours ago

Job description

We're looking for a Senior Transportation Engineer to join our public works team in Tualatin, Oregon. If you're a licensed PE who knows how to lead teams, deliver complex roadway projects, and build long-term relationships with public sector clients, this could be your next great move. You'll get to shape our transportation group, mentor engineers, and have the resources to go after the kinds of projects you're excited about.

What You'll Do
  • Lead roadway and multimodal transportation projects from planning and design through construction
  • Collaborate with surveyors, water resources engineers, and environmental scientists to deliver integrated, high-quality designs
  • Prepare plans, specifications, and estimates for roadways and highways
  • Oversee design tasks including horizontal and vertical alignments, pavement grading, and utility coordination
  • Perform (or guide) stormwater and drainage design using ODOT and local agency standards
  • Lead client coordination, internal team management, and proposal development
  • Support business development through relationship-building and strategic pursuit planning
  • Mentor junior engineers, providing technical guidance and professional growth opportunities
  • Help us grow our transportation practice in Tualatin and beyond
Who You Are
  • A licensed Professional Engineer (PE) with 7+ years of transportation engineering experience
  • Experienced in both rural and urban highway and intersection design
  • Skilled in MicroStation, InRoads, OpenRoads, and/or AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Comfortable coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and public agencies
  • Known for your clear communication, organizational skills, and ability to lead
  • Familiar with AASHTO, MUTCD, and state DOT design standards
Nice to Have
  • Experience working with ODOT or other state/county/municipal agencies in the Northwest
  • Knowledge of ODOT Hydraulics Manual and USACE Slopes V standards
  • Field experience as a construction engineer or inspector
  • A confident presence when presenting to stakeholders, agency staff, or community members

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