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Utility Inspector Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

College/Technical School coursework in construction management, Civil engineering, water/wastewater utility construction or operations, or a related field. Project Inspector II Minimum number of ...

Project Inspector AF

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

$23.04 - $28.80/hr

College/Technical School coursework in construction management, Civil engineering, water/wastewater utility construction or operations, or a related field. Project Inspector II Minimum number of ...

Testing, Inspection & Consulting; Infrastructure ... Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial ...

Testing, Inspection & Consulting; Infrastructure ... Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial ...

Testing, Inspection & Consulting; Infrastructure ... Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial ...

... Sandia Utility infrastructure. Operator 2 will perform duties in accordance with Pueblo and ... Maintains operating records and inspection reports. * Evaluates laboratory results and notifies ...

UTILITY OPERATOR 2

Bernalillo, NM · On-site

$28.21 - $31.73/hr

... Sandia Utility infrastructure. Operator 2 will perform duties in accordance with Pueblo and ... Maintains operating records and inspection reports. * Evaluates laboratory results and notifies ...

Showing results 21-40

Utility Inspector information

See New Mexico salary details

$15

$24

$51

How much do utility inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility inspector in New Mexico is $24.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.62 and $21.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility inspector?

Utility Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining and assessing utility systems such as water, gas, sewer, and electrical lines to ensure they meet safety, regulatory, and quality standards. Their duties often include inspecting new installations, maintenance work, and repairs, as well as documenting findings and reporting any issues. They play a vital role in preventing hazards, ensuring compliance with local codes, and maintaining reliable utility services for communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility inspector?

To thrive as a Utility Inspector, you need a solid understanding of utility systems, construction standards, and safety regulations, usually backed by a relevant technical diploma or field experience. Familiarity with inspection tools, GIS mapping software, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help inspectors excel in identifying and reporting issues. These abilities are crucial for ensuring utility infrastructure meets quality and safety standards, protecting both public welfare and organizational interests.

What are some common challenges utility inspectors face in the field and how can they be addressed?

Utility Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, accessing difficult or hazardous locations, and ensuring compliance with evolving safety regulations. To address these, inspectors should prioritize proper safety training, utilize appropriate personal protective equipment, and stay updated on current standards through continuous education. Collaboration with maintenance teams and clear communication with utility operators also help in efficiently resolving issues and maintaining inspection accuracy.

What is the difference between Utility Inspector vs Utility Technician?

AspectUtility InspectorUtility Technician
CertificationsOften requires safety and inspection certificationsRequires technical certifications related to utility systems
Work EnvironmentInspecting infrastructure, often outdoors or at job sitesMaintaining and repairing utility systems, often in field or plant settings
Employer & IndustryPublic utilities, government agencies, constructionUtility companies, energy providers, municipal services
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing inspection roles in utilitiesPeople looking into technical maintenance roles in utilities

The main difference is that Utility Inspectors focus on examining and ensuring the safety and compliance of utility infrastructure, while Utility Technicians perform hands-on maintenance and repairs. Both roles are essential in the utility industry but serve different functions within the infrastructure lifecycle.

How to become a utility inspector?

To become a utility inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in construction, engineering, or utility work. Relevant skills include knowledge of safety protocols, inspection procedures, and the use of tools like meters and testing equipment; obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can also improve job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Utility Inspector jobs in New Mexico?

For Utility Inspector jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Inspector jobs in New Mexico look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Inspector jobs in New Mexico are:

Infographic showing various Utility Inspector job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,912 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

$23.04 - $28.80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


City Of Rio Rancho rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

451st of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Summary The Project Inspector classification is a three-part career progression model comprised of the following working titles: Project Inspector I, II, and III. A Project Inspector conducts inspections of surface and subsurface installations of public infrastructure projects, subdivisions and private construction projects. Depending on assigned Division, inspections may include water and sewer distribution systems, water/wastewater treatment systems, reservoirs (tanks), lift stations, other facilities, roadway construction including subgrade preparation, base course placement, asphalt and concrete placement, curb and gutter installation, sidewalks and ADA ramps placement, signage and striping for permanent traffic control, and grading.

Other ancillary duties include, but not limited to, observing collection of water samples, pressure tests, etc. The Project Inspector III may oversee or lead the work of other Inspectors depending on assignment. Education, Training, Experience, Certifications, Licenses and Registrations Project Inspector I Education / higher education: High School Graduate or equivalent Minimum number of years of directly related experience: Two years of experience or training related to surface/subsurface civil engineering, and/or work experience in water/wastewater utility construction or operations.

Education and/or experience preferences: College/Technical School coursework in construction management, Civil engineering, water/wastewater utility construction or operations, or a related field. Project Inspector II Minimum number of years of directly related experience: Two years as a Project Inspector I or equivalent with the City of Rio Rancho. Project Inspector III Minimum number of years of directly related experience: Four years as a Project Inspector II or equivalent with the City of Rio Rancho.

=============================================== Project Inspector I Driver's License requirement: Frequent Driver -- Regular Driver's License Note -- For any driver, driving record must always meet City driving and insurability standards. Required certifications, licenses or registrations: none Preferred certifications, licenses or registrations Level 1 or higher Water or Waste water Operator Certifications; Sampling Certification, Traffic Control Certification, Temporary Traffic Control Supervisor Certification, Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA), Aggregate, Soil, or Concrete certifications offered in the NMDOT's Technician Training and Certification Program. Project Inspector II Driver's License requirement: Frequent Driver -- Regular Driver's License Note -- For any driver, driving record must always meet City driving and insurability standards.

Required certifications, licenses or registrations: Traffic Control Certification, Temporary Traffic Control Supervisor Certification, Soils from NMDOT's Technician Training and Certification Program. Project Inspector III Driver's License requirement: Frequent Driver -- Regular Driver's License Note -- For any driver, driving record must always meet City driving and insurability standards. Required certifications, licenses or registrations: Traffic Control Certification, Temporary Traffic Control Supervisor Certification, Soils from NMDOT's Technician Training and Certification Program, Asphalt and Concrete from NMDOT's Technician Training and Certification Program.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge: Water and wastewater specifications, construction operations and specifications, and materials standards, as set forth in the AWWA Standards, APWA, NMDOT and City standard details and specification; reading and interpreting engineering plans, City codes and ordinances; developing reports; water sampling and pressure testing procedures; engineering terminology; codes, standards and specifications for design and construction of roadway (surface and subsurface) and drainage projects; occupational hazards and safety standards and practices applicable to construction sites Mandrel tests, test for contaminants, poly and steel weld testing, cathodic potential meter, Multi-Meter for Continuity test, Holiday detector, hot tapping equipment. Must understand and interpret engineering plans, specifications, schematic drawings, etc. Skills: Must be able to type rapidly and accurately enough to successfully produce documents/spreadsheets, communicate via e-mail, or perform data entry as necessary to accomplish the essential functions of the position.Use of technology, equipment and software typically used in the office environment

Operation of a personal computer using word processing, spreadsheet, database, engineering, and computer mapping software; calculator; thermometers. Abilities: Read and interpret engineering plans, specifications, and documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.

Write routine reports and correspondence. Speak effectively before groups of customers or employees. Use math concepts to present data in charts, graphs, and presentations.

Analyze traffic control requirements in roadway construction areas for compliance with MUTCD. Measure quantities of completed earthwork, paving materials, pipe lengths, concrete flatwork and structures; calculate surface areas, linear distances, volumes, etc. Interaction with Groups/Agencies/Entities: Internal: Works with department managers and staff on construction and maintenance projects.

Maintains harmonious, courteous, and understanding relationships, while fostering a collaborative teamwork environment. External: Works with vendors and contractors to ensure utility construction and maintenance projects are completed per specifications. Presents a friendly, courteous image for the City to the general public, customers, and public officials.

Essential Functions The following functions are typical for this position. The omission of specific functions does not exclude them if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment for this position. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Inspects subsurface and surface installations for roadway, water and wastewater and drainage projects and subdivisions, ensuring accuracy, safety and quality in accord with Federal, state and local regulations. Conducts on-site inspection of construction projects, and maintains written progress reports, daily logs, picture, video records and maintain daily quantities, etc. Reviews construction plans and cost estimates for the construction project, attends bid openings and pre-construction meetings and coordinates construction projects with contractors, City staff, and clients.

Verifies all field changes for "as-built" drawings on field plan set or ensures the contractor and/or engineer are recording changes on final drawings. Observes hydrostatic tests on pressure lines and ex-filtration tests on gravity lines, manholes and water containment structures. Assist in scheduling soil, concrete and asphalt testing with labs.

Approves or denies installations based on contract compliance. Coordinates project closeout with City staff and contractors. Performs Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) infrastructure compliance inspection on public infrastructure within the public right of way.

An Inspector II and Inspector III are differentiated from an Inspector I by the assignment of duties of moderate difficulty.


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