FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY

Under general direction, to perform field inspection for construction projects, ensuring proper project completion in compliance with plans, specifications, time, and cost requirements; to review construction plans; and to do related work as required.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Construction Inspector I - This is the entry level class in the Construction Inspector series. Positions in this class typically have little or no directly related work experience and work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks. The Construction Inspector 1 class is distinguished from the 2 level by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the 2 level. Incumbents work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks, progressing to general supervision as procedures and processes of assigned area of responsibility are learned.

Construction Inspector II - This is the journey level class in the Construction Inspector series and is distinguished from the 1 level by the assignment of the full range of duties. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new, unusual or unique situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the 1 level.

Supervision Received and Exercised

All levels receive supervision from the Engineering Manager. 

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Inspect construction methods and materials to ensure compliance with approved plans and specifications.
• Develop and recommend revisions to plans and specifications to meet field conditions, as necessary.
• Complete field sketches of projects and maintain accurate as-built plans.
• Maintain a detailed daily diary of inspections.
• Make field measurements and calculations as necessary.
• Prepare periodic progress reports from accumulated data.
• Review construction plans and specifications for pipelines, pumps and associated facilities.
• Prepare correspondence related to inspection functions.
• Represent the District in coordination with other utilities, engineering firms, developers, regulatory agencies, governmental bodies, planning agencies and technical groups.
• Advise and confer with the general public concerning problems as a result of projects adjacent to their property.
• Account for all contract bid items in preparation of progress payment to contractors.
• Participate in all phases of District-wide activities and operations as assigned.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other District employees and the public using principles of good customer service.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Construction Inspector I

Knowledge of:

• Methods, materials, tools and equipment used in the construction of water development and distribution and other hydraulic projects and facilities.
• Construction workplace safety practices and procedures.
• Latest version of the Palmdale Water District’s Standard Specifications for Water Distribution System Construction.
• Mathematics and physics as applied to engineering, topography, construction and design of structures.
• Contract administration as related to construction projects, i.e. Scope of Work, quality of Work, Prosecution and Progress, Legal Relations and Responsibilities, Contractors Insurance, and Estimates and Payments.
• Basic operations of a water distribution system.
• Use of personal computers to prepare reports, compile data, and communicate electronically. Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and Access.

Ability to:

• Inspect construction projects and detect flaws in construction methods and materials.
• Read and interpret designs, plans and construction specifications.
• Maintain detailed records and information.
• Develop reports outlining problems with construction projects.
• Use computer systems and software packages related to construction analysis and specifications, and GIS mapping.
• Effectively represent the District’s engineering functions with the public, other government agencies, contractors, and developers.
• Learn, correctly interpret and apply the policies and procedures of the District.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including District staff and the general public.
• Operate various office equipment.
• Recognize health and safety problems related to construction projects.
• Work outside under a variety of climatic and geographic conditions.
• Prepare and maintain complete records and logs of inspection activities. 
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Construction Inspector II

 In addition to the qualifications for Inspector I

Knowledge of:

• Advanced methods and practices of mechanical installation, including process piping, pumps, valves, and related appurtenances.
• Operations of a water distribution system.
• Principles and practices of construction contract administration.

Ability to:

• Develop and recommend complex revisions to plans and specifications to meet field conditions as necessary.
• Independently perform field construction inspection duties related to water distribution system.

Construction Inspector I

Experience

Three years of increasingly responsible construction experience.

Training

High School Diploma or equivalent.

License and Certificate

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver’s License. Must having driving record acceptable to the District.
• Possession of a Distribution Operator Grade 2 Certificate as issued by the State Water Resources Control Board.
• Ability to obtain a Backflow Tester Certificate within 18 months in position.

Construction Inspector II

Experience

Three years of construction inspection experience performing duties similar to a Construction Inspector 1 with the Palmdale Water District.

Training

High School Diploma or equivalent.

License and Certificate

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver’s License. Must have a driving record acceptable to the District.
• Possession of a Distribution Operator Grade 3 Certificate as issued by the State Water Resources Control Board.
• Possession of a Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certificate as issued by the State Water Resources Control Board.
• Cross-Connection Control Specialist.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

Intermittently, walk stand, kneel, climb, and bend in the field; sit while studying or preparing reports and driving in vehicle or operating equipment; perform simple and power grasping, pushing, pulling and fine manipulation; intermittently write or use a keyboard to communicate; and lift or carry weight up to 50 pounds. Additionally, the incumbent in this position works outdoors in all weather conditions, including wet, hot and cold with extreme sun exposure. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations

Approved: May 30, 2023