Public Works Inspector I/II

Public Works Inspector I/II

Salary

$76,075.58 - $101,716.78 Annually

Location

Davis, CA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

00932

Department

Public Works Department

Division

Engineering & Transportation

Opening Date

08/06/2026

Closing Date

9/4/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

PUBLIC WORKS INSPECTOR I/II

DEFINITION

Under immediate (Public Works Inspector I) or general (Public Works Inspector II) supervision, performs a variety of duties in the inspection of public works capital improvement projects and/or the work of utility companies and contractors impacting the City's right-of-way; ensures conformance with applicable laws, codes, ordinances, plans, and specifications; prepares and maintains daily inspection reports, progress payments, change orders, claims, and other written documentation; and performs related work as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives immediate (Public Works Inspector I) or general (Public Works Inspector II) supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

Public Works Inspector I: This is the entry-level classification in the Public Works Inspector series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine construction inspection work. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the Public Works Inspector II level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Public Works Inspector II: This is the fully qualified journey-level classification in the Public Works Inspector series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Public Works Inspector I level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

Positions in the Public Works Inspector class series are flexibly staffed; positions at the Public Works Inspector II level are normally filled by advancement from the Public Works Inspector I level; progression to the Public Works Inspector II level is dependent on (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the classification; (ii) satisfactory work performance; (iii) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications; and (iv) management approval for progression to the Public Works Inspector II level.

Examples of Duties

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)

Essential functions may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Positions at the Public Works Inspector I level may perform some of these duties and responsibilities in a learning capacity

• Reviews plans and specifications of assigned projects; inspects materials for identification as conforming to specifications; reviews methods of construction prior to issuance of permits for proposed construction, alteration, or repair.
• Attends pre-bid and pre-construction conferences to provide information on the inspection aspects of the project and to respond to any questions.
• Inspects and surveys existing field conditions for drainage and City curbs, gutters, and streets for hazards in need of repair; measures and records displacements; submits locations for repair; performs various field inspection duties on a variety of the Citys infrastructure such as streetlights, traffic signals, trees/landscaping, and irrigation; documents and reports deficiencies.
• Performs field inspections, such as excavations, soil compaction, street construction and paving, water, sewer, and storm drain mainline and lateral installation, and other construction work on public property; checks line, grade, size, elevation, and location of structures.
• Performs routine materials and field tests to assure materials conform to job specifications; takes samples for analysis by laboratories and reviews tests for possible deficiencies; reports discrepancies and deficiencies to project engineers
• Conducts quantity survey to measure contractor progress.
• Conducts labor compliance interviews.
• Reviews and enforces public works permits; makes inspections of utility companies and contractors performing work in the public right of way; ensures notifications have been made to the public regarding all construction work; monitors pedestrian and traffic control at construction sites.
• Prepares and maintains daily inspection reports, progress payments, change orders, claims, and other written documentation; records amounts of materials used and work performed; recommends acceptance of completed construction work or requirement of additional work upon completion of project; coordinates design alterations between City staff and contractors; records as-built information on plans for use as record drawings.
• Prepares a variety of correspondence, reports, correction notices, procedures, and other written materials.
• Observes and complies with City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS

Positions at the Public Works Inspector I level may exercise some of these knowledge and abilities statements in a learning capacity.

Knowledge of:

• Materials, methods, principles, and practices used in public works construction, including streets, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, drainage, sewer, water, storm, SWPP, private utilities, phone cable, fiber, streetlights, and related facilities and appurtenances.
• Principles and practices of public works construction inspection.
• Basic soil mechanics and geology.
• Principles and practices of soil compaction and testing.
• Materials testing and sampling techniques.
• Basic practices of construction contract administration in a public agency setting.
• Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations relevant to assigned areas of responsibility, including but not limited to American's with Disabilities Act, Occupational Safety and Health Act (State and Federal), and traffic control standards
• Technical principles and practices of engineering design, specification, and cost estimate preparation.
• Defects and faults in construction.
• Materials sampling, testing, and estimating procedures.
• Basic construction surveying practices.
• Mathematical principles and theories.
• Technical report writing and preparation of daily logs and records of work performed.
• City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices necessary in the area of public works inspection and construction.
• Principles and procedures of record keeping.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively interacting with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:

• Inspect capital improvement and public works projects to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, and laws applicable to public work projects.
• Detect and locate faulty materials and workmanship and identify remedial measures; follow up to ensure measures have been implemented.
• Review materials for conformance to specifications; identify and take actions on materials testing results.
• Calculate materials quantities.
• Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with applicable Federal, State, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.
• Review and analyze construction plans, specifications, maps, and legal descriptions for conformance with City standards and policies.
• Coordinate activities with multiple contractors, engineers, and property owners.
• Respond to complaints or inquiries from citizens, staff, and outside organizations.
• Prepare and maintain accurate and complete records; prepare clear and concise technical reports.
• Make accurate mathematical, financial, and statistical computations.
• Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education:

• Public Works Inspector I/II: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade supplemented with coursework in construction management, engineering, or a related field.

Experience:

• Public Works Inspector I: Two (2) years of increasingly responsible experience in public works inspection or a related field.
• Public Works Inspector II: Three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience in public works inspection or a related field.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Public Works Inspector I/II: Possession of a valid California Driver's License, to be maintained throughout employment.
• Public Works Inspector II: Possession of, or successful acquisition within 12 months from date of appointment, a Grade D2 Water Distribution Operator Certificate from the State of California, to be maintained throughout employment.

Supplemental Information

Physical Demands

When assigned to an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; ability to stand and walk between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information.

When assigned to field inspection, must possess mobility to work in changing site conditions; possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend, to climb and descend ladders; and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various City sites; vision to inspect site conditions and work in progress. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 40 pounds, or heavier weights, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.

Environmental Elements

Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees also work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

WORKING CONDITIONS

May be required to work various shifts or emergencies on evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Tentative Recruiting Timeline:

First round interviews on 11/9/2023

CITY OF DAVIS

BENEFIT SUMMARY SHEET

PASEA

Certain aspects of the benefit package including accruals, and medical/dental/ cash in lieu contributions below will be pro-rated for a less than 1.0 FTE employee.

Leave Time

• 3 Weeks of Vacation Per Year to start (increases with years of service)
• 2 Floating Holidays per fiscal year (pro-rated for new hires)
• 13 paid Holidays
• Sick Leave: Accrual of 8 hours per month / 12 days per year.
• Parental Leave - 2 Months Paid Parental Leave Available After 1 Year of Employment.

Health Dental and Vision

• 125 Cafeteria Plan.

• The monthly City contribution for Medical insurance for 2026 is $2391.71

• The city contributes the premium for the family rate of the City's self-funded dental plan

• 2026 monthly premium for family is $210.00

• Up to $500 Cash-in-lieu Per Month if Opting Out of Medical & Dental

• Option to purchase Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

• 30k Employer Paid
• Voluntary/Supplemental Coverage Available for Purchase
• The new hire guarantee issue amount is $200,000

Retirement

• CalPERS Pension

• 2.5% at 55 for Classic CalPERS Members

• 2% at 62 for PEPRA Members (membership date of 1/1/2013 or later)

• The City participates in Medicare (1.45% employee deduction).

• The City does not participate in Social Security

• Survivor Benefit

• The city contracts with the Public Employees Retirement System for the 1959 Survivor Benefit Level Four (4).

Other Benefits

• Longevity Pay

• 2.5% at 10 years of service

• 2.5% at 20 years of service for a maximum of 5%.

• Retiree Health Contribution

• Medical and Dependent Care Flexible spending accounts available

• City paid long term disability program

• Access to purchase supplemental benefits including short term disability insurance, accident insurance, and additional life insurance products, etc.

• 457 Deferred Compensation Plans Available, including Roth Options

• City paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Multilingual Pay of 150.00 per month subject to approval and successful certification.

• Bicycle and Computer Loan Programs Available (upon successful completion of probation)

Alternative schedules available (e.g. 9/80)

MOU - Program, Administrative, and Support Employees Association (PASEA) 01.2025 - 06.2028

01

Select the most appropriate description of your experience as a Public Works Inspector

• None
• Some experience, but less than two years
• 2 years but less than 4 years
• 4 years or more

02

Relating to question 3, select all of the items that best describe the types of public works projects that you have gained experience

• Airports
• Dams
• Electrical Generation and Conveyance
• Transportation (Roads)
• Storm Drainage
• Pump Stations
• Bridges
• Wastewater
• Domestic Water
• Buildings
• Structural Steel
• Landscaping

03

Select all of the items below that best describe your experience with construction contract administration

• Plan reading
• Ensuring compliance with plans, specifications, applicable codes and regulations
• Reviewing and recommending approval for progress payments
• Negotiating change orders
• Writing change orders
• Writing clarifications
• Reviewing and approving change orders and/or requests for quotes
• Preparing construction reports such as inspectors daily logs
• Preparing, logging and tracking punch list items of work
• Preparing inspection reports including letters of non-compliance
• Monitoring storm water pollution control measures
• Processing submittals
• Constructability reviews
• Construction schedule review
• CPM schedule reviews
• Preparing construction related documentation (letter, RFI, field instruction)
• Maintaining files
• Computer software (Microsoft Office, Outlook)
• None of the above

Required Question

Employer City of Davis

Address 23 Russell Blvd

Davis, California, 95616

Phone (530) 757-5644

Website http://www.cityofdavis.org/