Public Works Inspector

Help Build the Infrastructure That Keeps a Community Moving As a Public Works Inspector, you’ll spend your days in the field ensuring that streets, sidewalks, drainage systems, and other infrastructure are built safely, correctly, and to the highest standards – work residents experience every time they drive, walk, or bike through town. It’s a strong fit for someone who enjoys hands‑on work, real‑time problem‑solving, and collaborating with contractors, engineers, and the public, and you’ll be part of a team that values service, teamwork, and delivering projects that make a visible difference. Lafayette blends a welcoming small‑town feel with easy access to the Bay Area’s transportation network, cultural amenities, and recreation. With BART service at the Lafayette Station and quick connections via Highway 24, commuting is simple. Working for the City of Lafayette means enjoying a balanced, high‑quality lifestyle in a community that values thoughtful growth, open space, and public engagement. What You'll Do This position offers a mix of fieldwork, technical review, and public interaction. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys being outdoors, thrives in active construction environments, and takes pride in ensuring high quality public infrastructure. Key Responsibilities Inspect public works and capital projects – including streets, storm drains, sidewalks, grading, and related infrastructure – for compliance with plans, specifications, codes, and safety standards Review construction plans, specifications, and permit applications Administer encroachment and transportation permits from issuance through closeout Prepare daily inspection reports and maintain project documentation, including support for payments and change orders Guide contractors on proper construction methods, materials, and standards Oversee field testing for soils, asphalt, and concrete Perform survey work and assist with traffic engineering studies Investigate resident concerns and coordinate solutions with contractors and City staff Serve as a liaison among the City, contractors, utilities, businesses, and property owners Support interns and assist with training related to permit processing Perform light maintenance tasks such as traffic signal timing adjustments Who We're Looking For The City is looking for someone with strong construction knowledge, good judgment, and a commitment to public service. Success in this role comes from being detail‑oriented, confident in the field, and able to communicate clearly with contractors, residents, and colleagues. You’ll Bring Knowledge of public works construction methods, materials, and inspection practices Familiarity with Federal, State, and local codes and safety standards Ability to read and interpret construction plans, specifications, and maps Skill in identifying construction defects and recommending solutions Experience coordinating with contractors, engineers, utilities, and property owners Strong written communication skills for reports and documentation Comfort performing field tests and basic survey work Proficiency with computers and modern office software Strong customer service skills and the ability to work effectively with the public A valid driver’s license and the ability to work safely in active construction zones Education and Experience Any combination of training and experience, which would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth (12) grade supplemented by college‑level coursework in engineering, construction management or related field; and two (2) years of increasingly responsible public agency engineering, public works infrastructure construction, inspection, or related experience. Working Conditions & Physical Requirements Work is performed both in the field and in an office setting. Field work involves frequent outdoor activity in active public works construction environments (e.g., streets, sidewalks, and infrastructure projects), with exposure to traffic, noise, dust, and varying weather conditions. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push and pull materials and objects weighing up to 50 pounds. Office work includes regular computer use for reporting, plan review, and documentation. The position requires the ability to walk job sites and stand for extended periods. An occupational medical pre‑employment physical exam is required. Compensation & Benefits The Public Works Inspector is a non‑exempt, hourly position with a hiring salary range of $42.10 to $58.85 per hour, depending on experience. The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM. May be required to work a varied schedule of hours, which may include evenings, and/or weekends. Build Your Career. Serve Your Community. Grow with Lafayette. If you’re looking for a place where your Construction Inspection skills will be put to work — and where your contributions truly matter — the City of Lafayette is ready to welcome you. If you're ready to join our Team as our next Public Works Inspector, submit your resume and optional cover letter and apply today! #J-18808-Ljbffr Lafayette, City of CA