INSPECTOR FIELD SERVICES

Job Description:

INSPECTOR FIELD SERVICES

Description

Description

The City of Palo Alto Public Works Department, Engineering Services Division is seeking a qualified individual for the role of Inspector Field Services to be a part of the Inspection and Surveying group. This position will be part of a team of six that is responsible for inspection in the public right-of-way for the City’s Capital Program and all private development projects, ensuring construction is in compliance with City standard details and specifications and approved plans. This position reports to the Supervisor Inspection & Surveying and works out of the Municipal Service Center. We are looking for a responsible candidate that is interested in challenging opportunities and contributing to the lifestyle of our local community through the valuable services that the Public Works Department strives to deliver.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

• Knowledge of principles, practices, techniques, and terminology of inspection and civil engineering
• Knowledge of surveying and construction methods, materials testing and equipment
• Ability to determine quality, materials, and workmanship through inspection, and to determine compliance with specifications
• Ability to analyze and interpret data
• Ability to write and prepare clear and concise field reports
• Collaborative working style
• Strives to achieve results using a flexible, open approach to problem solving while remaining sensitive to people issues
• Communication and interpersonal skills to successfully interact with co-workers, supervisor, contractors, property owners and others

Essential Duties

• Inspects activities of contractor to ensure that work done is in compliance with project plans and specifications, and in accordance with the approved schedule.
• Reviews plans and specifications for conformance to established standards for construction projects.
• Provides inspections for capital and maintenance work generated by the Utilities Department and Public Works Public Services Division.
• Inspects and monitors State, County, Santa Clara Valley Water District, and private utility projects under construction within the City limits.
• Consults with public and private engineers, contractors and sub-dividers regarding construction projects.
• Assists in the tabulation of quantity of work completed, cost estimates, and preparation of payments to Contractors.
• Ensures contractor's conformance to applicable safety regulations as well as City and State standard specifications.
• Recommends extra work orders and field contract changes.
• Assists in coordinating materials testing.
• Establishes and maintains working relations with property owners and the general public.
• Participates in surveying when required.

Minimum Qualifications

Sufficient education, training and/or work experience to demonstrate possession of the knowledge and skills, which would typically be acquired through:

• Two years of college in civil engineering; and
• Two years experience in Public Works or Utility Construction. or
• High school graduate or GED; and
• Four years experience in Public Works or Utility Construction.

Licensing Requirements:

• Valid California Driver’s License and ability to maintain during employment

WORKING CONDITIONS / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Work in office and inspection site environments; exposure to dust and noise; some climbing, stooping, light lifting and inspecting in confined areas

Supplemental Information

These positions are represented by Service Employee International Union (SEIU)
The City of Palo Alto is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

See our Benefits at a Glance Bookletfor more details.
Learn more about our Memorandum of Agreements (MOAs) between the City and its bargaining units, by clicking HERE.

Closing Date/Time: 2/8/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$54.92 - $67.17 Hourly