Inspector I/II/III - Stormwater

El Paso County, Colorado, USA; Colorado Springs (CO); On-site; USD 64,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

El Paso County DPW is seeking a motivated Stormwater Inspector to perform field inspections of development projects, DPW and county facilities, and citizen stormwater complaints to verify compliance with the MS4 permit and ECM. You will join a small team of inspectors with expertise in grading, drainage, and sediment control, with training provided for advancement.

Willingness to work Monday–Thursday schedule and travel within El Paso County is expected; position requires in-person presence and

Qualifications

• Knowledge of inspection methods and construction industry terminology.
• Ability to read and interpret ECM, MUTCD, and MS4 permits.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data recording.
• Strong math skills for area/volume calculations.
• Ability to communicate effectively with contractors, staff, and public.

Responsibilities

• Performs inspections on construction, replacement, and repair projects to ensure compliance with laws, codes, and regulations.
• Tests soils, aggregates, asphalt, and concrete for compaction against specifications.
• Responds to inquiries and investigates citizen complaints.
• Oversees subdivision construction functions and acceptance of improvements.
• Evaluates erosion control measures and MS4 permit compliance.
• Maintains records and supports permit processes with documentation.
• Communicates with staff, contractors, and engineers regarding ECM compliance.
• Prepares reports and participates in progress meetings.

Skills

Inspection

Communication

Microsoft Office

Mathematics

Reading plans

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s degree in related field

Tools

Microsoft Access

Excel

Job description

Vision

El Paso County will be a trusted regional leader known for excellence in county service delivery.

Purpose

We provide essential public services to the Pikes Peak Region in support of our residents, businesses, and communities, enhancing the freedom for all to thrive.

Values

Service Focused

• Collaborative
• Accountable
• Trustworthy
• Transparent

Job Summary

The El Paso County Department of Public Works (DPW) is seeking a motivated Stormwater Inspector with strong technical and interpersonal skills who is a self-starter and passionate about making a difference in our environment and community. The successful candidate will perform field inspections for new development, DPW projects, privately-owned and County-owned facilities, and citizen stormwater complaints within the county. The inspections will be conducted to verify compliance with the County’s MS4 permit and related engineering criteria. The successful candidate will be joining a small team of inspectors with knowledge and expertise in grading, drainage facilities, and temporary and permanent sediment control measures for illicit discharge and construction sites. Teamwork and mentorship are encouraged within the inspections group. Training is provided for varying interests, allowing for advancement within one’s career.

Inspector I

Full Salary Range: $55,150.00- $79,920.00 annually

Hiring Range: $59,500.00 - $64,000.00 annually

Inspector II

Full Salary Range: $65,500.00 - $98,340.00 annually

Hiring Range: $72,000.00 - $77,500.00 annually

Inspector III

Full Salary Range: $72,850.00 - $109,260.00 annually

Hiring Range: $80,000.00 - $86,500.00 annually

This position has an anticipated work schedule of Monday – Thursday, 6:30am – 5:00pm; subject to change.

This position will be primarily working at our Regional Development Center, 2880 International Circle, Colorado Springs, CO 80910

Please be advised this position may close without advance notice, should we receive a sufficient number of qualified applications.

Under direct supervision, this position performs inspections to uphold the County’s infrastructure integrity and safety, ensuring compliance with the El Paso County Engineering Criteria Manual (ECM), Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit, and applicable Federal, State, and Local laws, codes, and specifications. This position is part of the Inspector career progression series, which includes Inspector I, Inspector II, and Inspector III. An employee is eligible to advance to the next position within the series when the employee has met the criteria for advancement as notated within the job description and has received a recommendation from the Hiring Authority. Employment is subject to the terms, conditions, and policies detailed in the Personnel Policies Manual (PPM). This position requires regular in-person presence as an essential job function.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

• Performs inspections on construction, replacement, and repair projects, ensuring projects are completed in compliance with Local, State, and Federal laws, codes, and regulations.
• Conducts and analyzes tests on soil aggregates, asphalt, and concrete for compliance with compaction densities and specifications outlined in the El Paso County ECM.
• Responds to inquiries and concerns from various entities and the public; investigates and assists in resolving issues.
• Oversees subdivision construction functions; reviews and inspects construction, preliminary and final release of financial assurances, and acceptance of improvements with the Public right-of-way and public easements.
• Evaluates temporary and permanent erosion prevention and sediment control measures at project sites for compliance with the MS4 Permit and the ECM; recommends enforcement actions; responds to Illicit Discharges and issues Notices of Violation.
• Receives Underground Facility Locate Requests and completes daily locate tickets to facilitate safe excavation during construction activities; maintains records and closes active permits as appropriate.
• Performs initial and follow-up investigations of drainage complaints made by citizens and business owners; prepares related reports and resolves conflict if possible.
• Research and compile technical data for assigned engineering activities, including capital improvement, engineering services, development services, and stormwater.
• Consults with and serves as technical advisor to staff, other County Departments, contractors, developers, engineers, and consultants regarding compliance with the ECM, standards, specifications, construction, and building codes.
• Reviews technical plans, construction drawings, and shop drawings; test materials and review testing data submitted by outside contractors.
• Monitors and inspects stormwater facilities; reports related problems and repair/replacement needs; files related documentation.
• Assists in preconstruction and progress review meetings.
• Prepares analytical and statistical reports on operations and activities; maintains a variety of files and records; prepares related correspondence as needed.
• Prepares Acceptance Punchlists for new developments.
• Performs other duties as required.

• Conducts the pre-construction meeting prior to the execution of construction contracts.
• Coordinates with utility companies prior to and during construction; anticipates and takes action to avoid possible conflicts.
• Prepares monthly progress payments, change orders, daily pay item progress forms, weekly time sheets, daily diary, and other associated paperwork.
• Conducts condition inspection of concrete, roadway surfaces, patches, curb and gutter, sidewalks, sub-grade, and sub-base, and reports observations to the Inspection Supervisor.
• Uses database to maintain records of work performed on construction projects.
• Ensures adherence to construction plans and specifications and suggests practical "field fixes" to the project engineer to improve efficiency or cost-effectiveness by using different materials or construction practices. Monitors and ensures contractor adherence to construction plans and specifications.
• Ensures proper testing frequencies are followed and reported as they relate to various construction activities. May perform or coordinate materials testing for asphalt and/or concrete.
• Serves as day-to-day project manager; coordinates with assigned project engineer regarding escalated issues.
• Works with contractors on a daily basis and ensures safety procedures are properly followed.
• Responds to customer complaints in a consistent and timely manner; interacts with contractors, coworkers, outside agencies, and the public in a professional and courteous manner.
• Reviews and ensures approved Traffic Control plans are followed at all times.
• Performs warranty inspections before warranty expiration and ensures any deficiencies are repaired to meet department standards.
• Gathers data for next year's paving or concrete construction list and enters data into the database; uses data to estimate the cost of next year's contract and adjusts to meet the available budget.
• Provides weekly project update reports.
• Completes CO811 Underground Facility Locate Requests and identifies, locates, and marks locations of all El Paso County-owned underground infrastructure as needed.
• Provides support to other inspectors as requested.
• Performs other duties as required.

• Maintains records of work performed on construction projects using Microsoft Access, Excel, Word, and project management software.
• Conducts the pre-construction meeting prior to the execution of construction contracts.
• Coordinates with utility companies prior to and during construction; anticipates and takes action to avoid possible conflicts.
• Prepares monthly progress payments, change orders, daily pay item progress forms, weekly time sheets, daily diary, and other project-related paperwork.
• Ensures adherence to construction plans and specifications and suggests practical "field fixes" to the Project Engineer to improve efficiency or when cost savings can be achieved using different materials or construction practices.
• Ensures proper testing frequencies are followed and reported as they relate to various construction activities. May perform or coordinate materials testing for asphalt, concrete, and earthwork items.
• Performs field bridge inspections and maintains El Paso County's bridge inventory database, adhering to strict guidelines established by the FHWA's National Bridge Inventory System (NBIS). Prepares maintenance work orders and suggests practical repairs.
• Works with contractors and engineers on a daily basis and ensures safety procedures are properly followed.
• Responds to customer complaints in a consistent and timely manner; interacts with contractors, coworkers, outside agencies, and the public in a professional and courteous manner.
• Reviews and ensures approved Traffic Control plans are followed at all times.
• Organizes and manages weekly project meetings and additional meetings such as pre-paving and pre-concrete pour meetings.
• Acts as the Project Manager's agent in their absence.
• Interprets and ensures all plans and applicable specifications are properly implemented. Duties include checking and performing calculations related to the following: steel reinforcement, concrete flatwork, structural concrete, structural steel, pipes and other storm drainage systems, earthwork, paving, striping, traffic signals and signs, fencing, seeding and mulching, site erosion control, and bridge work.
• Coordinates projects with the project engineer, contractors, testers, utility companies, and surveyors. Ensures projects proceed in accordance with the County's stormwater quality permit requirements.
• Completes CO811 Underground Facility Locate Requests and identifies, locates, and marks the locations of all El Paso County-owned underground infrastructure as needed.
• Performs Inspector I and II duties as needed.
• Perform other duties as required.

Supervision Exercised

This classification does not have supervisory authority and requires no supervision or direction of others.

Supervision Received

Receives intermittent supervision. This classification normally performs the job by following established standard operating procedures and/or policies. Regular direction, guidance, and coaching from supervisor is expected. There is a choice of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance reviewed periodically.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of methods, equipment, materials, and terminology used in the construction industry.
• Working knowledge of computer software including the Microsoft Office suite of products.
• Must possess sound mathematical skills with an understanding of algebra and geometry and the ability to perform calculations involving area and volume.
• Must observe and follow safety procedures and precautions.
• Ability to read and interpret the El Paso County ECM, Colorado Department of Transportation Specifications, the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), Drainage Criteria Manual Volumes 1 and 2, and the County’s MS4 Permit.
• Ability to read and understand grading and erosion control plans, road, and bridge construction plans, terminology, and specifications.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with County employees, contractors, builders, developers, and the public. Ability to provide excellent customer service.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to work independently with instruction and in a team environment.
• Ability to complete Individual Development Plan (IDP) based on area of assignment.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.

• Basic knowledge and understanding of Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) M&S Standards.
• Knowledge of methods, equipment, materials, and terminology used in the construction industry.
• Working knowledge of materials testing procedures and intervals.
• Working knowledge of computer software including the Microsoft Office suite of products.
• Understanding of land surveying and stake interpretation preferred.
• Must possess strong mathematical skills with a sound understanding of algebra and geometry and the ability to perform calculations involving area, volume, and slope.
• Must observe and follow safety procedures and precautions.
• Ability to read and understand construction plans, terminology, and specifications. Ability to read and interpret the El Paso County ECM, Colorado Department of Transportation Specifications, the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), Drainage Criteria Manual Volumes 1 and 2, and the County’s MS4 Permit.
• Ability to read and understand grading and erosion control plans, road, and bridge construction plans, terminology, and specifications.
• Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with County employees, contractors, and the public. Ability to provide excellent customer service.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently with instruction and in a team environment.
• Ability to complete Individual Development Plan (IDP) based on area of assignment.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.

• Working knowledge and understanding of Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) M&S Standards.
• Working knowledge of bridges and FHWA's in-service bridge inspection procedures.
• Working knowledge of materials testing procedures and intervals and the ability to understand testing results as compared to applicable materials specifications.
• Working knowledge of methods, equipment, materials, and terminology used in the construction industry. Working knowledge of computer software, including Microsoft Access and Excel.
• Must have a solid understanding of land surveying and stake interpretation.
• Must possess strong mathematical skills with a sound understanding of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry and the ability to perform calculations involving area, volume, slope, and unit conversions.
• Must observe and follow safety procedures and precautions.
• Ability to read and understand road and bridge construction plans, terminology, and specifications. Ability to read and interpret the El Paso County ECM, Colorado Department of Transportation Specifications, the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), Drainage Criteria Manual Volumes 1 and 2, and the County’s MS4 Permit.
• Ability to read and understand grading and erosion control plans, road, and bridge construction plans, terminology, and specifications.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with County employees, contractors, and the public. Ability to provide excellent customer service.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and in a team environment.
• Ability to complete Individual Development Plan (IDP) based on area of assignment.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance.

Required Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent education.
• One year of professional experience in a related field.
• Associate’s degree or higher in a related field may substitute for the required experience.

• High school diploma or equivalent education.
• Three years of inspection or related experience.
• Associate’s degree in a related field may substitute for one year of the required experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field may substitute for two years of the required experience.
• Education substitutions are not cumulative; only the highest qualifying degree will be considered.

• High school diploma or equivalent education.
• Five years of inspection or related experience.
• Associate’s degree in a related field may substitute for one year of the required experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field may substitute for two years of the required experience.
• Education substitutions are not cumulative; only the highest qualifying degree will be considered.

Preferred Education and Experience

• One year of Public Works or construction-related experience.
• One year of inspection experience related to public infrastructure, stormwater, and/or construction.
• Associate’s degree or higher in a related field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

• Three years of Public Works or construction-related experience.
• Three years of inspection experience related to public infrastructure, stormwater, and/or construction.
• Associate's degree or higher in a related field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

• Five years of Public Works or construction-related experience.
• Five years of inspection experience related to public infrastructure, stormwater, and/or construction.
• Associate's degree or higher in a related field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Licenses/Certificates

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Successful completion of Traffic Control Technician (TCT) and Traffic Control Supervisor (TCS) training class within six months of employment.

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Must obtain and maintain necessary certifications and licenses applicable to assigned position and Individual Development Plan.
• Successful completion of Traffic Control Technician (TCT) and Traffic Control Supervisor (TCS) training class within six months of employment.

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Must obtain and maintain necessary certifications and licenses applicable to assigned position and Individual Development Plan.
• Successful completion of Traffic Control Technician (TCT) and Traffic Control Supervisor (TCS) training class within six months of employment.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• Must pass conditional post offer background investigation, motor vehicle record check, drug screen, and physical examination.

Work Conditions

Duties are performed in an office environment and in the field, including undeveloped vacant land, construction sites, and partially to fully completed structures. Position requires travel throughout El Paso County to construction sites, negotiating rough terrain, and climbing stairs during on-site inspections in the field. Field work requires exposure to weather elements, hazards, close proximity to moving vehicles and traffic, and other adverse physical and environmental conditions. Must be able to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds. May be subject to varying work schedules based on the needs of the department, including being subject to an on-call schedule rotation and after-hours call-out.

The classification specification above is intended to describe the general nature of work, key responsibilities, and minimum qualifications. Minimum qualifications reflect the baseline experience required for the classification. Departments may establish additional or preferred qualifications to address operational needs, assignment complexity, and specialized functions, provided such qualifications are job-related, consistent with the intent of the classification, and as approved by the Human Resources department. Specific job assignments, duties, education, experience, licenses/certifications, and working conditions may vary based on the department or office's needs and the requirements of the assigned position. Changes to this classification specification may only be made by the Human Resources Department.

El Paso County is an E-Verify and Equal Opportunity Employer.

El Paso County adheres to Federal drug screening guidelines and requires a pre-employment drug screen.