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

Public Works Inspector

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

Examples of Duties The Public Works Inspector inspects, in detail, the methods and materials used in the on-site and off-site construction of streets, alleys, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, storm drains ...

New

Public Works Inspector

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$72K - $96K/yr

The City of Oceanside is accepting applications for the position of Public Works Inspector. There is currently one vacancy in the Development Services Department - Land Development section. The ideal ...

New

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 ...

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Public Works Inspector information

See Temecula, CA salary details

$19.4K

$63.8K

$91.4K

How much do public works inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works inspector in Temecula, CA is $63,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,200.00 and $77,000.00 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.

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

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

Infographic showing various Public Works Inspector job openings in Temecula, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,767 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Public Works Inspector

City of Oceanside

Oceanside, CA • On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


City Of Oceanside rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

488th of 856 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Introduction THE CITY OF OCEANSIDE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. The City of Oceanside is accepting applications for the position of Public Works Inspector. There is currently one vacancy in the Development Services Department - Land Development section.

The ideal candidate for this position will possess direct geotechnical/soils inspection experience. Examples of Duties The Public Works Inspector inspects, in detail, the methods and materials used in the on-site and off-site construction of streets, alleys, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, storm drains, sewers, water and lighting systems, catch basins, driveways, approaches, manholes and traffic light conduits; attends pre-construction meetings as well as on-site grading; ensures necessary approvals are obtained from appropriate regulatory agencies; ensures proper field implementation of erosion control and storm water pollution prevention measures; provides assistance on engineering or landscape projects in the preparation or review of designs, cost estimates, plans, specifications and inspections; examines all conditions existing on street right of ways; reviews and interprets construction plans and specifications, consulting with supervisor on deviations; checks grades, using string line or level as necessary; performs or reviews soils and materials tests to ensure conformance to specifications; investigates subgrade conditions for paving purposes; inspects compacting, finishing, grading, rolling, spreading of bituminous material and roadway base, rolling and finishing of ends and joints, applications of tack and seal coats and sand sealing operations; tests pavement thickness; calculates materials, converting volume measurements to weight for comparison to bid estimates; makes straight edge tests and orders proper reduction of high spots; inspects forms and concrete pouring; checks delivery tickets and analyzes mix; inspects a variety of underground structures, assuring authorized construction, trenching, line and grade, checking alignment of pipe and quality of joints; inspects backfilling of utility trenches; reviews and interprets environmental impact reports; implements decisions based on reports and plans from soil and environmental engineers; issues stop-work orders and/or correction notices relating to problems in the field; submits detailed reports on work progress and material quantities; conducts testing of water and sewer mains; ensures that landscape improvements are properly installed and maintained; plans new landscape installations and renovations; prepares landscape maintenance and installation specifications to amend or change City guidelines and requirements; inspects the work of contracted landscape workers to ensure compliance with all plans, schedules and City maintenance specifications; reviews plant materials, irrigation systems, erosion control, fire abatement, drainage and plant pest control problems; designs landscape and irrigation improvements and prepares cost estimates; reviews landscape and irrigation plans submitted by architects for private development that will become the City's maintenance responsibility; inspects the installation and ensures the ongoing maintenance of private landscapes; inspects medians requiring landscape maintenance by private property owners; and performs related duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Knowledge of: Modern principles of inspection techniques and materials used in assigned land development and public works projects.

Acceptable safety standards and requirement in public works construction. City and local laws, codes, ordinances, specifications and standards relating to public works construction. Approved street construction methods and materials.

Underground construction methods and safety requirements. Nomenclature, symbols, methods, practices, techniques and instruments used in engineering and mapping. Mathematics as applied to inspecting public works projects.

Field practices of landscape construction. Operation of irrigation systems. Operation of traffic signals.

Erosion control and Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan. Plant materials including identification, growth habits, nutritional requirements and pest control. Pertinent Federal, State, and local laws, codes and regulations.

Modern office procedures, methods and equipment including computers and applicable software applications. Principles and procedures of record keeping. Principles of business letter writing and basic report preparation.

Ability to: Read and interpret basic public works construction plans, grade sheets and specifications. Apply proper inspection techniques to obtain specified construction defined by City requirements and contract awards. Understand grades and mixes of asphalt and cement construction materials.

Estimate quantities and make accurate arithmetical calculations. Inspect the installation and maintenance of landscaped properties. Identify deviations from approved construction plans and take appropriate action.

Maintain and update accurate records and files. Prepare clear and concise reports. Perform basic mathematical calculations accurately.

Work independently and efficiently to carry out assignments. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.

Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Experience and Training Experience: Two years experience inspecting public works construction which includes a wide variety of projects such as grading, street construction, water and sewer systems, storm drains and/or landscape. Training: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade supplemented by specialized training involving inspection of public works projects.

License/Certificate: Possession of, or ability to obtain and maintain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. **Association of Construction Inspectors (ACI) or American Public Works Association (APWA) certification as a Public Works Inspector is desirable** Working Conditions and Selection Process Environmental Conditions: Office and field environment; travel from site to site; exposure to noise, dust, smoke, fumes, gases; inclement weather conditions. Physical Conditions: Essential functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for standing or walking for prolonged periods of time; entering and walking through construction sites; speaking and hearing to exchange information; visual acuity to read and interpret specifications and drawings and conduct public works inspections.

Selection Process: All properly completed applications will be reviewed and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. Failure to provide all required application materials will result in disqualification from the selection process. The process may include any combination of written exam, oral interview, application appraisal, and/or skills assessment to further evaluate job related qualifications.

Candidates who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on an eligibility list and will remain eligible for employment consideration for a minimum of six months. Note: Prospective employees will undergo, and must successfully pass, a background reference check (including fingerprinting) and a medical examination. Drug screening may be required.

RESUMES ARE NOT ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF COMPLETED APPLICATION FORMS, BUT MAY BE ATTACHED. CANDIDATES WHO REQUIRE A REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION IN THE SELECTION PROCESS SHOULD STATE THEIR NEEDS IN WRITING WHEN SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION PACKAGE. THE PROVISIONS IN THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.

ANY PROVISION CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE.


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