Utility Inspector

Location: San Antonio, TX • Contract-to-hire

About the role

In this field-based position, you’ll play a critical part in ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of natural gas distribution projects. You’ll oversee contractors and field activities while maintaining regulatory and client standards.

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.

Requirements

• 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.

Skills

• Natural Gas Distribution

Benefits

As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to receive a Full Employee Benefits Package that includes:

• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• 3 medical plans to choose from
• Dental & vision plans
• 401(k)
• Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP) plan

Pay

$34/hr