People Behind the Pipes

1. Tell us about your job.
My job as a construction inspector is really interesting! I keep an eye on construction projects to make sure the water pipes and systems are put in correctly and repaired when needed. This includes water, recycled water, and wastewater. I also make sure everyone is safe while construction is going on. Making sure the water system stays clean for the public is one of the most important parts of my job!

Construction Inspector II Josh Sanchez visits a construction site to ensure that new water pipelines are being installed correctly.

2. What do you like best about your job.
There are many things I enjoy about being a construction inspector. I get to give advice that can help make a building or project last longer, and I also learn about new construction techniques. But the best part of my job is working with everyone involved in completing a construction project. This includes property owners, builders, designers, and my co-workers at DSRSD. It's fun to learn from each team member and see the projects get done!

3. How did you get into the industry.
I started my career in the water/wastewater industry as an information systems technician. I took care of databases, did computer drafting, and helped customers at the City of Vallejo’s Public Works department in the Engineering division. Not long after I started, I got the chance to help with inspecting construction projects, and my career grew from there. I was lucky to gain a lot of different experiences that still help me today.

4. What are the biggest challenges of your job?
One of the hardest parts of my job is figuring out how new construction affects our current water systems and services for customers. For example, a new water connection might require a water main to be shut down, which would stop water for many people and businesses. So, we work as a team to find ways to lessen the impact and decide which valves need to be closed. Then, we figure out the safest way to open the valves again.

5. What is something unique about you?
When I joined DSRSD as a construction inspector, I think it was unique that I already had experience with both private development projects and capital improvement (CIP) projects. Inspecting CIP projects often means being directly involved with the construction work and keeping track of important paperwork. So, when I was given my first CIP project to inspect at DSRSD, I felt comfortable in my role and knew how to help keep things on track.

6. What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to spend most of my free time with my family, either going on outings or hanging out at home. I also work on fixing things around the house. When I'm alone, I like trail running, practicing music, learning languages, and playing chess. I used to play baseball and basketball in city leagues, and I enjoy watching the San Francisco Giants, 49ers, and Golden State Warriors on TV.

Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.
They can be downloaded by clicking on the icons below.

Acrobat Reader Windows Media Player Word Viewer Excel Viewer PowerPoint Viewer