Project Inspector

City of Olathe; Lisle (IL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Olathe is hiring a Project Inspector to support public infrastructure and private development inspections. The role offers progression from I to III with increasing independence and guidance responsibilities within the Infrastructure Department.

The position requires reading plans, applying codes, and performing field tests; some certifications may be required within a year. It is a full-time, on-site role with a focus on quality and safety in municipal projects.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; college coursework preferred.
• Valid driver’s license with favorable driving record.
• IMSA Work Zone Safety, Erosion & Sediment Control, and Nuclear Density Gauge certifications within one year.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field inspections of public infrastructure and private development work.
• Monitor construction for compliance with plans, specs, codes, and safety regulations.
• Identify deficiencies and coordinate resolutions with contractors and stakeholders.

Skills

Reading blueprints & specs

Field inspection discipline

Safety compliance knowledge

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

College coursework in engineering or construction management

Job description

Employment Type

Full Time

Job Summary

Project Inspector

City of Olathe | Full-Time | $24.23 – $44.22 per hour, based on qualifications

Position Overview

The City of Olathe Infrastructure Department is seeking a detail-oriented, service-focused Project Inspector to support public infrastructure and private development projects throughout the community.

This position may be filled at the Project Inspector I, II, or III level, depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, relevant experience, certifications, and demonstrated ability to perform the work.

Project Inspector I is an entry-level role working under close guidance; Project Inspector II performs inspections with greater independence; and Project Inspector III serves as an advanced technical resource and provides guidance to junior inspectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct field inspections of public infrastructure and private development construction activities, including site grading, storm and sanitary sewers, waterlines, streets, and related improvements.
• Monitor construction work for compliance with approved engineering plans, contract documents, City of Olathe specifications, applicable codes, safety regulations, and local and state requirements.
• Identify construction deficiencies; communicate findings to contractors and project stakeholders; and collaborate on appropriate resolutions.
• Manage field aspects of assigned projects, including tracking construction progress, completed quantities, project schedules, and scope compliance.
• Evaluate quality control and verify that construction materials and workmanship meet required standards.
• Conduct or oversee field testing, including soil compaction, concrete strength, and nuclear density testing for subgrades and asphalt pavement.
• Review pay estimates; provide input on change-order items; prepare Project Completion Certificates; and coordinate with project management staff.
• Maintain accurate inspection records, testing documentation, reports, photographs, and other project files.
• Provide technical guidance and on-the-job training to less experienced inspectors, as assigned.
• Support snow removal operations and other emergency or operational needs as required.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; college-level coursework in engineering, construction management, or a related field is preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and favorable driving record required.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain within one year of employment, International Municipal Signal Association (IMSA) certifications in Work Zone Safety, Erosion and Sediment Control, and Nuclear Density Gauge required.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering plans, blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications; use field-testing equipment and documentation software; and apply applicable construction, safety, and municipal standards.

Project Inspector I: At least one year of relevant experience in construction inspection or a related field. Basic knowledge of construction materials, inspection techniques, municipal codes, and safety regulations preferred.

Project Inspector II: At least three years of progressively responsible experience in construction inspection for civil engineering projects. Working knowledge of construction methods, materials, municipal codes, safety regulations, and inspection practices required.

Project Inspector III: At least six years of experience in construction inspection, public works, or a related field. Advanced knowledge of construction methods, materials, municipal codes, safety regulations, and project specifications required. Must demonstrate strong problem‑solving and communication skills and the ability to work independently and provide guidance to junior inspectors. Additional relevant experience may be substituted for preferred education. Certified Public Infrastructure Inspector (CPII) certification is preferred.

Environmental or Physical Demands: Work is performed primarily outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, snow, and wind. The position may involve exposure to dust, debris, airborne particles, fumes, traffic noise, low‑light conditions, and glare from headlights. Work near moving equipment, machinery, traffic, and other potential construction‑site hazards is common.

The position may require lifting and carrying materials, tools, and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds; climbing ladders, stairs, and other structures; walking on uneven terrain; and maintaining balance on slippery surfaces. Fine motor skills are necessary to operate equipment, use tools, and prepare reports.

For more details, review the full job details and requirements below.

The Project Inspector I is an entry-level position focused on learning and developing foundational skills in the technical inspection of streets, storm sewers, sanitary sewers, water mains, and other city infrastructure within the Infrastructure Department. This job works closely with their supervisor and senior project inspectors for guidance and training. This is the first of a three-level career progression of a Project Inspector I, II, and III.