Utility Inspector (Gas Distribution)

ENTRUST Solutions Group; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

ENTRUST Solutions Group in Iowa is seeking a Utility Inspector to oversee gas distribution projects, ensure safety, quality, and regulatory compliance, and manage field activities and contractors. The role requires 5+ years in the utility or pipeline sector, knowledge of 49 C.F.R.

Part 192, ability to read plans and drawings, a clean driving record, and a willingness to travel 100% across the state as a full‑time temporary assignment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in utility or pipeline industry.
• Experience with distribution main and service replacement projects.
• Knowledge of gas distribution and 49 C.F.R. Part 192 regulations.
• Ability to read utility plans, blueprints and drawings.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills for contractor coordination.
• Able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.

Responsibilities

• Oversee pipeline and gas distribution field activities for OSHA and client standards.
• Conduct visual inspections of installations to ensure compliance.
• Review engineering drawings, codes, and schedules for conformance.
• Issue stop-work orders when safety or regulatory standards are not met.
• Perform quality control checks on contractor work and materials.
• Oversee excavation, pipe installation, pressure testing, and documentation.
• Maintain records of contractor personnel and track safety measures.
• Conduct daily safety inspections and tailgate/JSA briefings.
• Verify contractor OQ for tasks and coordinate with landowners as needed.
• Observe and report daily construction activities to ENTRUST and client.

Skills

5+ years experience

Distribution main & service

Gas distribution regulations

Reading blueprints & drawings

Communication & problem solving

Outdoor field work

Valid driver's license

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Do you have the expertise and passion to make a difference in utility and pipeline safety? We are looking for a knowledgeable and dedicated Utility Inspector to join our dynamic team in Iowa. In this role, you’ll play a critical part in ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of natural gas distribution projects, overseeing contractors and field activities while maintaining regulatory and client standards.

This is a full time, temporary role requiring 100% travel throughout the STATE OF Iowa, focusing on hands‑on oversight, quality control, and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and direct pipeline and gas distribution field activities to ensure compliance with OSHA laws, Federal Safety Standards (49 C.F.R. Part 192), and client-specific policies.
• Conduct visual inspections of pipeline and poly gas main installations, ensuring compliance with industry standards and specifications.
• Review and interpret engineering drawings, codes, and construction schedules, verifying that projects meet all applicable regulations and are built as designed.
• Utilize independent judgment to determine whether federal codes and safety standards are being met and issue stop-work orders if necessary.
• Perform quality control checks on contractor work, ensuring adherence to required standards and specifications.
• Oversee excavation, backfill, boring, pipe installation, purging, gas line activation, pressure testing, and documentation.
• Maintain accurate records of work performed by contractor personnel, tracking compliance, efficiency, and safety measures.
• Conduct daily safety inspections and participate in safety briefings (tailgate meetings, JSAs) to ensure worksite safety.
• Verify contractor Operator Qualifications (OQ) for specific tasks and coordinate construction activities with landowners when needed.
• Observe, document, and report daily construction activities to both ENE and the client, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the utility or pipeline industry.
• Prior experience with distribution main and service replacement projects, particularly installing new poly mains and services.
• Strong knowledge of gas distribution, pipeline regulations (49 C.F.R. Part 192), and utility construction methods.
• Experience reading and interpreting utility plans, blueprints, and technical drawings.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills to coordinate with contractors, landowners, and stakeholders.
• Physical ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and conduct field inspections.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.

Preferred Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in the utility or pipeline industry.
• A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams in the field.
• A passion for fieldwork and ensuring the safety and quality of every project.

Why Join Us?

At ENTRUST Solutions Group, We Offer More Than Just a Job; We Provide a Pathway To Impactful And Fulfilling Work. Here’s Why You’ll Love Being Part Of Our Team

• Exciting Opportunities: Work on projects that shape the future of the pipeline industry and make a real impact.
• Growth-Oriented Environment: Advance your career with professional development programs and clear pathways to success.
• Collaborative Culture: Join a diverse and supportive team that values your unique skills and perspectives.

Who We Are

ENTRUST Solutions Group, an ENR Top 100 company, is a community of people, 3,000+ strong, who are committed to our clients and each other. We provide comprehensive and dependable engineering, consulting, and automation services to gas and electric utilities, telecommunication service providers, pipeline operators, and industrial companies.

ENTRUST Solutions Group is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.