Public Works Inspector

Responsibilities

**This position is located in St. George, LA**

The Public Works Investigator performs field inspections and investigations related to public rights-of-way, drainage systems, streets, utilities, and other public infrastructure within the City. The position ensures compliance with City ordinances, right-of-way permits, and departmental standards. The Investigator serves as the eyes and ears of the department in the field, identifying issues, documenting violations, and coordinating corrective actions with contractors, residents, and City staff.

• Conduct field inspections of streets, drainage systems, sidewalks, and rights-of-way to identify hazards, damage, or unauthorized work.
• Investigate complaints related to drainage, encroachments, obstructions, litter, and construction activity in the public right-of-way.
• Mark or flag safety concerns and potential hazards that City personnel or contractors should be aware of prior to beginning work on-site.
• Issue verbal and written notices of violation or correction under applicable City codes and policies.
• Document findings through detailed field notes, photographs, and electronic reports.
• Verify that contractors and utility companies are operating under valid permits and following approved traffic control and restoration plans.
• Coordinate with Engineering, Code Enforcement, and Police on joint investigations when needed.
• Provide field support during weather events or emergencies, documenting damage and assisting in response coordination.
• Maintain accurate records of investigations, inspections, and communications.
• Represent the Public Works Department in meetings with residents, businesses, and contractors to resolve field issues.
• Assist in developing recommendations for infrastructure repair, maintenance, or enforcement action.
• Operate City vehicles and equipment safely and in compliance with City policy.

Qualifications

• Education: HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA OR EQUIVALENT
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in public works, construction inspection, code enforcement, or related field.
• Knowledge of construction methods, right-of-way regulations, drainage systems, and traffic control standards (MUTCD familiarity preferred).
• Ability to read and interpret maps, plans, and permit documents.
• Strong communication and customer service skills for interaction with residents, contractors, and staff.
• Proficiency with computers, tablets, and mobile reporting applications.
• Valid Louisiana driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Experience: Minimum of 5 years working in a professional office environment

Key Skills/Competencies for this position

• Applicants must be highly organized and able to function in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent time management, organization, and communication skills. Interaction with the public is possible therefore being patient and courteous is required.
• Have the ability to organize filing systems well as perform repetitive tasks.
• Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
• Must be able to handle confidential matters with discretion.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, a working knowledge of other relevant programs is a plus

Personal Qualities

IBTS places a high value on certain personal traits that work toward creating a positive, supportive work environment, which is essential for working together and achieving success.  We believe that the manner in which you achieve your results is equally important as the results themselves. The following are key personal traits essential for success in senior leadership roles within our organization.

• Strategic/Innovative Thinking
• Professional and Effective Interpersonal Skills
• Delegation with Team Accountability
• Risk Evaluation/Management/Mitigation
• Relationship Building: Internal and External

Company Overview

Bring your passion, expertise, and experience to IBTS, where we appreciate and are committed to our employees. We offer outstanding benefits, growth opportunities, and work hard to maintain a culture that values our employees. 

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization established to provide unbiased professional building code compliance services, while enhancing the communities in which we work. At IBTS, our mission is to deliver quality services to meet the challenges of governance at all levels while enhancing public safety, economic development, and the general welfare of the community. Our services include Building and Community Development, Energy and Sustainability Services, Disaster Planning and Recovery, Quality Assurance, as well as Compliance and Risk Monitoring.

IBTS is headquartered in Ashburn, VA, with additional offices in Louisiana, Missouri, New York, Puerto Rico, and Washington, DC.

We are committed to building a community of experts with diverse backgrounds, disciplines, and perspectives who are passionate about our mission. IBTS is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer that is committed to hiring a diverse and talented workforce. This opportunity is open to Section S3 Residents. Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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