Inspector, Horizontal

Position Overview

Inspect and document construction progress to ensure compliance with plans, specifications and all applicable standards. Inspection includes direct observation of work in progress. Documentation includes written words, pictures, tickets, etc. utilizing both electronic and hard copy media. Coordinate with contractor representatives on scheduling of work, interpretation of plans and specifications, and acceptability of materials. Coordinate and attend meetings, prepare correspondence, complete forms, create records and files as required.

Represent Harris County to public and private individuals and agencies as applicable who may be affected by construction activities. An inspector is expected to be able to effectively provide inspection on 3-4 maintenance projects (approx. $1M each) or 2 capital projects (approx. $4M each) at a time.

• Maintaining familiarity with the work to be performed and the specifications governing the work is required.
• Participating in training, providing accurate responses to questions, and timely notification to Contractor and supervisors of non-compliant work is required
• Observe on-going construction.
• Provide on-site, direct inspection to verify that both the quality and quantity of work are completed in accordance with plans and specifications.
• Direct inspection is as required for the type of work being performed, but typically no less than 50% of workday is expected to be outside directly observing the work.
• Record work completed in a computer-based reporting system.
• Provide accurate and thorough reports in accordance with supervisor with Harris County guidelines.
• Complete all daily reports within 72 hours of work performed.
• Update the project schedule/calendar daily to accurately describe issues/conflicts and the impacts to the critical path.
• Communicate and coordinate with contractors, Harris County personnel and other public and private entities on issues relating to project work. Maintain positive working relationships and represent Harris County in a pleasant and professional manner in all interactions.
• Communicate daily with contractor's supervisor-on-site to determine the type and timing of appropriate inspection; communicate this information daily to your supervisor. Manage and schedule testing and coordinate with construction materials testing personnel.
• Communicate daily with the contractor's supervisor-on-site to determine the type and timing of appropriate testing and schedule the lab accordingly.
• Manage the testing budget and inform your supervisor as soon as possible but no later than 2 months ahead of an anticipated shortfall Attend and participate in project meetings and inspections, assist project team as needed and perform other duties as assigned.
• Under general supervision, performs inspection of businesses, buildings, infrastructure such as highways and bridges, homes, dams and sewer systems. Examines structures to ensure they have been built in compliance with building codes and ordinances.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Employment Opportunity Plan .aspx

If you need special services or accommodations, please call  or email

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

• Graduate of an accredited high school or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma.

• Minimum of two years of verifiable experience in construction oversight. Education in related field may be substituted for experience.

• Demonstrate the ability to read and interpret written procedures, specifications and plans and relate them to inspection of the work.
• Knowledge of construction standards, practices, and techniques.
• Prepare written documentation using proper grammar, correct spelling, and punctuation.
• Have a working knowledge of computers and computer-based programs.
• Be able to measure, quantify and calculate quantities.
• Work independently with limited supervision.
• Communicate effectively and maintain positive relationships with contractors, supervisors, co-workers.
• Appropriately represent Harris County to both public and private companies/agencies and to the general public.
• Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License required.

In accordance with Harris County’s Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Policy, this position is subject to emergency response and deployment protocols.

The employee may be designated as supporting a Mission Essential Function (MEF) and must:

• Participate in the classification process of departmental staff based on MEF responsibilities. Be available for temporary deployment to an alternate work location, role, or telework assignment during emergency events.
• Confirm work assignments with your supervisor prior to reporting to any worksite during such events.
• Remain flexible in assuming…