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Public Works Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NV5

Construction Inspector-Public Works

Irvine, CA

$50 - $75/hr

Right now, we're looking for a skilled Construction Inspector to join our team across Southern California and help deliver impactful public works projects. In this role, you'll play a key part in ...

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$64.2K

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How much do public works inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works inspector in the United States is $64,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $77,500.00 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.

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 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.

More about Public Works Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Works Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Public Works Inspector job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Public Works Inspector jobs? The top employers for Public Works Inspector jobs are:
What states have the most Public Works Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Works Inspector jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Public Works Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Works Inspector jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Public Works Inspector jobs? For Public Works Inspector jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Public Works Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Works Inspector job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 17% Full Time, 64% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,183 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
Construction Inspector-Public Works

Construction Inspector-Public Works

NV5

Irvine, CA

$50 - $75/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 352 rated engineering

Job description

NV5, where we specialize in technology, conformity assessment, and consulting solutions for both public and private sector clients. Right now, we’re looking for a skilled Construction Inspector to join our team across Southern California and help deliver impactful public works projects.

In this role, you’ll play a key part in ensuring quality, safety, and compliance on infrastructure projects that shape the communities we live in—think roads, bridges, water systems, and more. As part of NV5, you’ll work alongside engineers, program managers, and environmental professionals to contribute to sustainable, cost-effective projects that make a real difference.

Competitive $50.00- $75.00 per hour + Benefits
Location: Southern California; Hours: Full-time and Part-time
Focus: Public Works Infrastructure projects (Water/Wastewater/Roads/Treatment facilities/Airports/ Transportation)

If this sounds like an opportunity you’d like to explore, Apply today Careers - NV5 


What You'll Do:
  • Be the Problem-Solver: Work directly with supervisors, contractors, and design professionals to tackle challenges head-on, ensuring seamless project execution.
  • Oversee Quality & Compliance: Monitor contractor work, inspect structures and systems to guarantee adherence to project plans and specifications.
  • Keep Projects on Track: Track costs and schedules, identify risks early, and ensure that deadlines are met while avoiding budget overruns.
  • Be the Go-To Expert: Interpret plans and contract terms, ensuring all stakeholders—from administrative staff to clients—are on the same page.
  • Proactively Manage Challenges: Recommend solutions for delays, weather disruptions, and site emergencies to maintain efficiency.
  • Drive Project Success: Represent NV5 and our commitment to excellence by maintaining strong client relationships and assessing their needs to provide optimal solutions.
 

Qualifications:

  • Experience and working knowledge of civil construction principles/practices in at least one of the following three fields:
    • Municipal and Public Works projects, water and wastewater distribution systems, water and waste water treatment plants.
    • Transportation projects with a preference for highway and Caltrans roadway projects.
    • Experience and working knowledge with Caltrans MUCTD and Caltrans Construction Manual
  • 3-5 years of experience in the above experience
    • Preference given to Group II Construction Inspection Certificates or other Valid Construction Certificates in Public Works or Related Fields
  • Electrical inspection, including SCADA and Instrumentation for City and Agency municipal projects such as lift stations, pumping stations, water treatment plants, signalized intersections, and other electrical municipal projects.
  • Knowledge of building codes, including ICBO, ACI, NEC, local City ordinances, and engineering practices for public works and/or transportation projects and/or electrical SCADA and Instrumentation Projects.
  • Preference will be given to those who have a minimum of one valid Group II certification.
  • Competency Statement(s)
  • Experience providing construction oversight of the Contractor
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, proven ability to interact with individuals at all levels of construction while coordinating multiple, complex projects
  • Working knowledge of and basic proficiency with computers. Ability to create and use Construction Inspection Daily logs on computer/tablet. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and Outlook. Ability to utilize other construction related software including Microsoft Project and/or Primavera, a plus.
  •  
  • Conflict Resolution -Effectively and constructively manage conflicts with others.
  • Safety Awareness - Identify and correct conditions that affect employee safety.

Education:

  • High School Degree or a related technical field

Certifications/Licenses:

  • Candidate must have a valid California Driver’s License
  • While Certificates are not mandatory, the ideal candidate may have many of the following certificates:
  • Safety and Basic Certificates
  • Cal OSHA Safety Awareness Training
  • 40-Hour HAZWOPER
  • Project Inspector
  • Public Works Inspector
  • Group II Certifications
  • AWS-CWI Welding Inspector
  • Concrete Inspector
  • Building/Construction Inspector
  • Grading Inspector
  • Reinforcing Steel
  • Pre-tensioned concrete
  • Post Tensioned Concrete
  • Structural Steel Welding Inspector
  • Concrete Batch Plant
  • Structural Masonry
  • Group III
  • Protective Coatings Inspector


Physical Requirements:
Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Safety Glasses, Hard Hat, protective footwear, respirators or other PPE's as needed in compliance with OSHA regulations). Ability to work out-of-doors in inclemently hot or cold weather, sitting, standing, and walking. Most shifts are worked monitoring the Contractors' standard construction shift during the day M- F, but you should be willing to work nights and weekends.
Ability to travel within Southern California
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Working out of a field office/vehicle at the construction site, Construction Inspectors monitor the overall construction project. Decisions regarding daily construction activities are generally made at the job site. Construction Inspectors travel extensively when the construction site is not close to their main office or when they are responsible for activities at two or more sites.
Travel within Southern California may be required.

The base pay range for this California position is $50.00- $75.00 per hour; Base pay offered may be higher or lower depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and location of the candidate. Restricted stock units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Applicants should apply via the NV5 careers site.

All local employment laws apply. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via the NV5 careers site.

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k), and professional development/advancement opportunities.

NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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About NV5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NV5 is a renowned company based in Los Angeles, CA, US, that operates in the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Officially established in 2009, this company provides technical engineering and consulting solutions that cater to public and private sectors globally. The firm is adept in a wide range of services, including infrastructure, energy, construction, program management, and environmental services. As part of its mission, NV5 seeks to deliver solutions that enhance communities and safeguard the environment meticulously.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

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