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

City of Gresham

Engineer 1 - Wastewater

Gresham, OR · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

Conduct field inspections and site visits to support design development, construction oversight ... they relate to public works projects. Principles and practices of project management. Data ...

Terracon

Staff Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

... and inspection, and the writing, preparation, and review of related reports for the services ... for example public works, transportation, commercial, communications, energy, and industrial.

Western Construction

Project Manager

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Inspect or review projects to monitor compliance with building and safety codes or other ... Public Works Projects Additional Skill Requirements * Strong time management skills to ensure that ...

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 ...

MWH Constructors Inc.

Building Superintendent

Gresham, OR · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

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 - Water/Wastewater

Gresham, OR · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

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 ...

Multnomah County

Engineer 3 (Bridges)

Portland, OR · On-site

$60.87 - $74.88/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

$60.87 - $74.88/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 ...

City of Beaverton

Traffic Signal Electrician

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$41.43 - $55.52/hr

... Public Works Team and ensure that traffic signals and street lighting are safe and reliable throughout the city. The Traffic Signal Electrician performs installation, maintenance, and inspection of ...

MWH

Senior 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

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 · 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 ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 8, 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 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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For Public Works Inspector jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Works Inspector jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Works Inspector jobs in Portland, OR are:

Public Works Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Inspector job openings in Portland, OR as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 81% In-person, 13% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,067 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Senior Utility Engineer - Wastewater

Tualatin, OR • On-site

AKS Engineering & Forestry, LLC
Civil Engineering Construction • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about AKS Engineering & Forestry, LLCexternal

$108K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

If you're ready to make a big impact on your community and grow a high-performing wastewater team, we want to talk to you. As a Senior Utility Engineer at AKS, you'll lead vital infrastructure projects that serve cities, counties, and districts, while mentoring junior engineers and helping to expand our Public Works practice. This is more than just a design role; it's an opportunity to shape how wastewater work gets done at a firm known for its collaboration and technical excellence.

What You'll Do
  • Lead the planning, design, and delivery of wastewater collection systems, pump stations, and treatment facilities.
  • Develop project scopes, budgets, and schedules, ensuring quality and efficiency at every stage.
  • Mentor junior staff and provide technical leadership to project teams.
  • Work directly with public agencies and utility districts to understand needs, build trust, and deliver successful outcomes.
  • Manage and review work prepared in AutoCAD Civil 3D, SewerCAD, and related software.
  • Support business development through client relationships and proposals (as your experience allows).
Who You Are
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Oregon or Washington (or able to obtain within 6 months).
  • 10+ years of experience designing wastewater infrastructure for public or private clients.
  • Strong working knowledge of AutoCAD Civil 3D and wastewater modeling software (e.g., SewerCAD).
  • Excellent communicator and collaborator who enjoys working with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Self-motivated with strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Committed to mentoring others and developing talent from within.
  • You have a "Do what needs to be done" mindset, taking ownership beyond assigned tasks and stepping in wherever needed to keep projects, teams, and customers supported and running smoothly.
Nice to Have
  • Experience managing full lifecycle projects for Oregon or Washington public agencies.
  • Background in trenchless design and construction techniques.
  • Master planning or hydraulic modeling experience.
  • Field engineering or construction inspection experience.
  • Ability to confidently present to clients, councils, and community groups.

Apply