1

Public Works Manager Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Public Works Infrastructure projects (Water/Wastewater/Roads/Treatment facilities/Airports ... Proactively Manage Challenges: Recommend solutions for delays, weather disruptions, and site ...

Public Works Infrastructure projects (Water/Wastewater/Roads/Treatment facilities/Airports ... Proactively Manage Challenges: Recommend solutions for delays, weather disruptions, and site ...

Be Seen First

LAE is seeking an experienced Civil/Public Works Engineer to manage and support public works ... construction projects (e.g. roadway resurfacing/rehabilitation/reconstruction, water, sewer, storm ...

Be Seen First

LAE is seeking an experienced Civil/Public Works Engineer to manage and support public works ... construction projects (e.g. roadway resurfacing/rehabilitation/reconstruction, water, sewer, storm ...

Showing results 21-40

Public Works Manager information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$37.6K

$90.3K

$148.7K

How much do public works manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for public works manager in Riverside, CA is $90,313.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,300.00 and $111,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public works manager?

To thrive as a Public Works Manager, you need a solid background in civil engineering or public administration, often supported by a relevant degree and several years of supervisory experience. Familiarity with project management software, budgeting tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or Certified Public Works Professional (CPWP). Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing teams and engaging with community stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure efficient operations, regulatory adherence, and the successful delivery of public infrastructure projects.

What is a public works manager?

Public Works Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the planning, construction, maintenance, and repair of public infrastructure and services in a city or municipality. Their duties often include managing teams, coordinating projects related to roads, water supply, sewers, and public buildings, and ensuring compliance with regulations and budgets. They play a crucial role in maintaining the quality and safety of community facilities and services, working closely with government officials, contractors, and the public.

What is the difference between Public Works Manager vs Public Works Supervisor?

AspectPublic Works ManagerPublic Works Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple departments, manages budgets, and develops policiesSupervises daily operations, manages staff, and ensures project completion
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public administration, civil engineering, or related field; often requires management experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; relevant experience in public works or construction
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits; strategic planning focusFieldwork and site supervision; hands-on management
Industry UsageCommonly employed by city or county governments, municipalitiesTypically found in municipal departments, construction firms, or public agencies

The Public Works Manager focuses on strategic planning, budgeting, and overseeing multiple teams, while the Public Works Supervisor handles daily operations and staff supervision. Both roles are essential in public infrastructure projects but differ mainly in scope and level of responsibility.

What are some typical challenges a public works manager faces when coordinating projects with multiple departments and external contractors?

Public Works Managers often encounter challenges related to coordinating schedules, ensuring clear communication, and aligning priorities among different city departments and external contractors. These projects can involve tight deadlines, budget constraints, and compliance with regulatory standards. Successful managers use strong project management skills, maintain open lines of communication, and foster collaborative relationships to address issues promptly and keep projects on track. Being adaptable and proactive is essential for resolving conflicts and ensuring public works initiatives are completed efficiently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Works jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Public Works jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Public Works Manager jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Public Works Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Works Manager job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,313 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Construction Inspector-Public Works

NV5

Irvine, CA • On-site

$50 - $75/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

142nd of 449 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.

#LI-KS1

#INDHP


What NV5 employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


NV5 logo

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