Construction Inspector – Public Works

Summary

Our client is an established construction management firm providing project management and construction services for private and public-sector clients throughout Southern California. They are seeking an experienced Construction Inspector to support a ground-up public works building project in South Orange County. The Inspector will be responsible for monitoring construction activities in the field, verifying that work is performed in accordance with approved plans, specifications, codes, and project requirements, and documenting project progress and quality. This position will work closely with the Construction Manager, contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, and public-sector stakeholders throughout the approximately 14–15 month project. The opportunity is intended to be long-term, with the potential to transition to additional projects following completion of the initial assignment.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Field Inspection & Construction Oversight
  • Conduct regular inspections of construction activities to verify compliance with approved plans, specifications, drawings, and project requirements.
  • Monitor workmanship, materials, installation methods, and construction progress across various trades.
  • Observe construction activities and identify deficiencies, deviations, safety concerns, and potential quality issues.
  • Verify that work is being performed in accordance with applicable building codes, standards, and project specifications.
  • Coordinate and document required inspections, testing, and special inspections as applicable.
  • Monitor site conditions and report potential schedule, quality, or constructability issues to the Construction Manager.
  • Review completed work and ensure deficiencies are properly corrected.
  • Assist with punch-list development, tracking, and closeout activities.
• Documentation & Reporting
  • Prepare detailed daily inspection reports documenting site activities, manpower, materials, equipment, progress, inspections, and issues.
  • Maintain accurate photographic documentation of construction progress and field conditions.
  • Track deficiencies, non-conforming work, corrective actions, and outstanding items.
  • Review contractor documentation and field submissions as needed.
  • Maintain organized inspection records and project documentation.
  • Provide regular updates to the Construction Manager regarding project progress and field conditions.
• Project Coordination
  • Work closely with the Construction Manager and project management team to monitor project progress and quality.
  • Coordinate with contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, consultants, inspectors, and other project stakeholders.
  • Attend construction meetings and provide field observations and updates.
  • Assist in resolving field questions, discrepancies, and coordination issues.
  • Communicate potential problems promptly and help facilitate appropriate corrective action.
  • Support project closeout, final inspections, punch lists, and turnover.
• Safety & Compliance
  • Observe jobsite safety practices and report unsafe conditions or activities.
  • Monitor contractor compliance with applicable OSHA and project-specific safety requirements.
  • Ensure construction activities follow applicable codes, standards, permits, and project requirements.
  • Maintain awareness of site access, housekeeping, public safety, and other site conditions that may impact the project.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum 3–5 years of construction inspection experience.
• Experience inspecting commercial, institutional, public works, municipal, or other complex construction projects preferred.
• Ground-up construction experience strongly preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, plans, and technical documents.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, sequencing, and quality control.
• Familiarity with applicable building codes, construction standards, and inspection requirements.
• Experience documenting field conditions, deficiencies, progress, and corrective actions.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify construction issues before they become larger problems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively with contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, owners, and project management teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and construction documentation platforms such as Procore, Bluebeam, or similar software preferred.
• OSHA 30 certification is preferred.
• ICC or other relevant inspection certifications are a plus.
• Ability to work primarily in the field and travel to project sites within South Orange County as required.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred.
• Preferred Experience
  • Public works or municipal construction.
  • K-12 or educational facilities.
  • Government-funded construction projects.
  • Ground-up commercial or institutional buildings.
  • Experience working with municipalities, public agencies, or government representatives.
  • Experience with project documentation, inspections, testing, punch lists, and closeout.
  • Relevant ICC certifications or other construction inspection credentials.