1

Water Inspector Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview Fire Inspector Under the general direction of the Deputy Fire Marshal, this ... Fire safety standards, building materials, and methods of construction including water supply ...

Advanced Water Technician

Denver, CO · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Specialist in Water Damage - Advanced is an expert in the drying and repair of residential ... Perform daily inspections of vehicle safety and maintenance and keep these clean and in perfect ...

Showing results 41-60

Water Inspector information

See Colorado salary details

$25.8K

$57.8K

$104.1K

How much do water inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for water inspector in Colorado is $57,769.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $66,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water inspector do?

A Water Inspector is responsible for examining water systems and supplies to ensure they meet safety and quality standards. Their job includes inspecting water treatment plants, pipelines, and distribution systems for compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. Water Inspectors also collect water samples, conduct tests for contaminants, and generate reports on their findings. Their work helps protect public health by ensuring safe and clean water is delivered to communities.

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

To thrive as a Water Inspector, you need a solid understanding of water quality standards, environmental regulations, and inspection procedures, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification in environmental science or a related field. Familiarity with water sampling equipment, laboratory analysis software, and regulatory compliance systems is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that help in reporting findings and interacting with stakeholders. These skills ensure accurate monitoring, regulatory compliance, and the protection of public health and environmental resources.

What are some typical challenges water inspectors face during routine site visits?

Water Inspectors often encounter challenges such as accessing remote or hazardous inspection sites, dealing with uncooperative property owners, and adapting to varying weather conditions. They must remain vigilant when identifying potential safety or compliance issues, often requiring keen attention to detail and strong communication skills. Effective collaboration with local agencies and staying updated on regulatory changes are also essential to ensure inspections are thorough and accurate.

What is the difference between Water Inspector vs Water Quality Technician?

AspectWater InspectorWater Quality Technician
CertificationsOften requires state or local water inspection certificationsTypically requires certifications like NALMS or water testing certifications
Work EnvironmentInspects water systems, treatment plants, and distribution networksConducts water sampling, testing, and analysis in labs or field sites
Employer & IndustryPublic water agencies, municipalities, environmental agenciesEnvironmental labs, water treatment facilities, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing inspection roles in water safetyIndividuals interested in water testing and analysis roles

Water Inspectors focus on inspecting water systems and ensuring compliance with safety standards, often working in the field. Water Quality Technicians primarily perform water sampling and laboratory testing to analyze water quality. While both roles involve water safety, their daily tasks and certifications differ, making each role distinct in the water industry.

How to become a water inspector?

To become a water inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant training or certification in water quality or environmental health. Many roles require knowledge of water testing procedures, safety protocols, and sometimes a state-specific license or certification, which can be obtained through accredited programs or agencies. Gaining experience in environmental science, public health, or related fields can also improve job prospects.
Infographic showing various Water Inspector job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 99% In-person, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,769 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

Fire Inspector

Under the general direction of the Deputy Fire Marshal, this position performs, but is not limited to, conducting inspections offacilitiesforcompliance with adopted fire and building codes, the inspection and supervision of testing of fire protection  systems  in  accordance  with  approved  plans,  and  the  acceptance  and  approval  of  installed  systems.  Additional assigned duties may include: the investigation of all assigned fires, attempts at fire, explosions, and other incidents for the purpose of determining the origin and cause, conducting the review of plans for fire code compliance, conducting firecode inspections of hazardous materials facilities, and/or managing specific programs or areas of focus relating to risk reduction for the Town of Vail.  Additional responsibilities include fire safety inspections in connection with the issuance of permits, certificates of occupancy, and in connection with code enforcement actions.  This position requires taking initiative and the use of independent judgment. The incumbent must demonstrate the ability to provide the necessary information to allow for the consistent and standard interpretation of Fire Codes enforced by the Town of Vail within the jurisdiction.     

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

  • Performs building and construction inspections as necessary and as required by state law, local ordinances, and codes in effect within the jurisdiction as related to the issuance of construction and operational permits under applicable laws, rules, ordinances and codes. 
  • Responds to requests for information concerning fire codes and related standards, and advises architects, builders, property owners, developers, and members of the public with respect to fire code(s) requirements, equipment, and system specifications and related fire prevention, detection, and suppression requirements of the Town of Vail. 
  • Investigates complaints by the public and/or other entities concerning violations under the fire code and standards. 
  • Participates in the review of fire codes and standards, including researching, analyzing, and interpreting the Fire Codes and standards adopted by a jurisdiction within the Town of Vail to facilitate uniform application.  
  • Participates in the development of fire prevention methods; reviews local, state and national fire codes and standards relating to fire protection; observes fire protection equipment installation, the installation of water supplies for firefighting purposes, and the construction of egress/access roads for the purpose of evaluating compliance with minimum fire code requirements. 
  • Assists Town of Vail, Vail Fire & Emergency Services shift personnel, and Building Department   with technical inspection of occupancies for compliance with all applicable fire codes and standards. 
  • Prepares reports concerning inspections and investigations completed by the Vail Fire & Emergency Services   
  • Participate on the Special Event Review Committee and provides input and direction for special events that require permitting in the Town of Vail. 
  • Serve the citizens and guests of the Town of Vail by abiding by all Town of Vail core values. 
  • Perform job in accordance with all Town of Vail and Vail Fire and Emergency Services safety practices. 
  • Able to work off-scheduled regular work hours for special situations such as inspection needs, investigations, or other fire department needs
  • Other duties as assigned. 
Skills / Requirements

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

  • Fire safety standards, building materials, and methods of construction including water supply systems, building and area access requirements. 
  • National, state, and local fire and building codes, related laws and ordinances.  Knowledge and experience in the administration of the International Fire Code is desired. 
  • Modern methods, practices, and techniques for fire prevention and control, community risk reduction, and fire scene investigations 
  • Knowledge of fire detection, extinguishing and protection systems and devices, including installation, operation, testing and maintenance. 
  • Interpret and analyze building plans, specifications, mechanical and design documents in relation to the requirements of codes and standards. 
  • Possess communications skills that will enable the preparation of clear, concise, and accurate written reviews and reports, and effectively present ideas and instructions orally. 
  • Keep accurate records and reports as appropriate for the position. 
  • Ability to use logic to solve difficult problems, probing all sources for answers, looking beyond the obvious, and past the first answers to explore all reasonable possibilities. 
  • Establish and sustain working relationships with staff and field personnel, other governmental officials, and the general public. 
  • Willingness and ability to recognize and deliver excellent customer service. 
  • Selfmotivated, selfdisciplined, takes initiative, and conducts work in line with organizational goals. 
  • Work with frequent interruptions and adhere to deadlines in stressful or difficult situations. 
  • Utilize Microsoft office, fire records management system, plan review and permit software systems 
  • Manage multiple responsibilities, projects and tasks simultaneously, work under deadlines and meet deadlines in stressful or difficult situations. 
  • Education, Experience and Certificates 
  • High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent, supplemented with an Associate's degree in Fire Science, Civil Engineering, Construction Technology or a closely related field. 
  • Three (3) years of experience in the fire inspections/safety inspections service or a closelyrelated field 
  • Any equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered that demonstrates the ability to perform the necessary essential functions of the job. 

Certifications: 

  • Colorado Driver's License or be able to obtain within 30 days of hire. 
  • ICC/NFPA certified Fire Inspector I or able to obtain within 1 year of hire. 
  • ICC/NFPA certified Fire Inspector II or able to obtain within 1 year of hire. 
  • CO Plans Examiner Certification or equivalent or able to obtain within 1 year of hire. 
  • State of Colorado Fire Suppression System inspector/plan reviewer certification or able to obtain within 1 year of hire. 
  • IAAI FIT certification or able to obtain after hire based on business need (at Deputy Fire Chief  and Fire Chief's discretion) 
  • ICS-100 and IS-700 or able to obtain within 1 year of hire 

Desirable: 

  • NWCG S-130/S-190 or able to obtain within 1 year of hire. 
  • NWCG FI-210 and INVF 
Culture / Lifestyle / Benefits

Our values-based culture is nurtured by the employees' strong desire to foster teamwork, take ownership in Vail's future and an overall pride for serving their community. 

The Town of Vail offers an excellent benefits and compensation package to our Full-time employees. This includes health and dental coverage, town-funded retirement, 457 pre-tax savings plan, life/survivor insurance, tennis pass, golf pass and other ski pass/wellness benefits.

What's more, the town offers many other benefits to help employees make Vail their "home" including employee housing options, home buyer/renter assistance programs, day care assistance, education reimbursements, professional development opportunities and much, much more.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME