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Associate Inspector Jobs in San Jose, CA (NOW HIRING)

Construction Inspector II

San Jose, CA · On-site

$39 - $54.50/hr

Associates degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Construction Engineering Technology preferred. * Minimum 2-4 years' experience in construction inspection. * Valid driver's license with ...

Associates degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Construction Engineering Technology preferred. * Minimum 2-4 years' experience in construction inspection. * Valid driver's license with ...

CNC QC Inspector

Union City, CA · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Position: QC Inspector Hours: 40 hours per week ((2nd Shift) Position Summary The Quality Control ... Bachelor's or associate's degree Benefits * Health insurance (Medical/Dental/Vision) * Life and AD ...

Construction Inspectors spend the majority of their time working on projects performing ... Associates degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Construction Engineering Technology preferred.

CNC QC Inspector

Union City, CA · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Position: QC Inspector Hours: 40 hours per week ((2nd Shift) Position Summary The Quality Control ... Bachelor's or associate's degree Benefits * Health insurance (Medical/Dental/Vision) * Life and AD ...

CNC QC Inspector

Union City, CA · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Paid time off * Vision insurance Position: QC Inspector Hours: 40 hours per week ((2nd Shift ... Bachelor's or associate's degree Benefits * Health insurance (Medical/Dental/Vision) * Life and AD ...

Be Seen First

Quality Inspector Pay: $24.00-$25.00/hour Position Overview We are seeking a detail-oriented ... Associate's, Bachelor's, or Master's degree in a technical or scientific discipline is a plus.

QA/QC Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-7 years of QA/QC inspection experience in ...

QA/QC Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-7 years of QA/QC inspection experience in ...

QA/QC Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-7 years of QA/QC inspection experience in ...

QA/QC Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-7 years of QA/QC inspection experience in ...

QA/QC Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-7 years of QA/QC inspection experience in ...

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-7 years of QA/QC inspection experience in ...

QA/QC Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-7 years of QA/QC inspection experience in ...

The QA/QC Inspector plans and conducts activities concerned with the quality assurance of ... Associates DegreeEmployment Type: CONTRACTOR

QA/QC Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-7 years of QA/QC inspection experience in ...

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-7 years of QA/QC inspection experience in ...

QA/QC Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. * Minimum 3-7 years of QA/QC inspection experience in ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Inspector information

See San Jose, CA salary details

$28.7K

$64.4K

$116K

How much do associate inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate inspector in San Jose, CA is $64,388.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $74,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate inspector?

Associate Inspectors are entry-level professionals who assist in examining materials, products, or processes to ensure they meet specified standards and regulations. They typically work under the supervision of senior inspectors, performing tasks such as conducting inspections, documenting findings, and preparing reports. Associate Inspectors are found in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and public safety, and their work helps maintain quality, safety, and compliance. This role often serves as a stepping stone to more advanced inspection or supervisory positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Inspector, you need a solid understanding of inspection procedures, regulatory standards, and quality assurance principles, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with inspection tools, reporting software, and industry-specific compliance systems is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate inspections, regulatory compliance, and clear reporting, all of which are crucial for maintaining safety and quality standards.

What is the difference between Associate Inspector vs Construction Inspector?

AspectAssociate InspectorConstruction Inspector
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationsHigh school diploma; often requires certifications like NICET or state-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentOffice and fieldwork, inspecting construction sites and projectsPrimarily on-site inspections of construction projects
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government agencies, private firms, and construction companiesCommonly employed by government agencies, engineering firms, and construction companies
Comparison Search IntentYesYes

The main difference between an Associate Inspector and a Construction Inspector lies in experience and certification requirements. Construction Inspectors typically have more specialized certifications and extensive field experience, whereas Associate Inspectors are often entry-level roles supporting inspection activities. Both roles work in similar environments and industries, focusing on ensuring construction quality and compliance.

What are some common challenges associate inspectors face when working on-site, and how can they effectively address them?

Associate Inspectors often encounter challenges such as navigating changing site conditions, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, and communicating findings to diverse stakeholders. To address these, it's important to stay current with industry standards, develop strong observational skills, and foster clear communication with site managers and team members. Proactive problem-solving and adaptability are key to successfully managing unexpected situations and maintaining high-quality inspection standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA? The most popular types of Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA? For Associate Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Inspector jobs in San Jose, CA are:
What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Associate Inspector jobs? Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Associate Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Inspector job openings in San Jose, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,388 per year, or $31 per hour.

Construction Inspector II

TERRACON

San Jose, CA • On-site

$39 - $54.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description


Construction Inspectors spend the majority of their time working on projects performing construction related inspection requiring specific certifications and/or experience. Perform daily inspection of construction projects monitoring quality and adherence to building code requirements, construction drawings and project specifications. Inspections may cross multiple inspection disciplines or within a specified area of expertise including structural steel, concrete, masonry, fireproofing, etc. Inspection may include visual/physical inspection and field testing to verify conformance with the plans and specifications. Prepare inspection reports and provide written documentation of observations and testing of materials. Communicate findings to engineer or project manager and when requested collaborate with the project team on solutions to potential issues. Adhere to strict safety standards.
Responsibilities
  • Performs testing, observation, and inspection as directed in accordance with training and the specified procedures to determine if work is done according to contract specifications.
  • Read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
  • Provides clear documentation of findings and results.
  • Prepare inspection reports and document nonconformance.
  • Performs basic analysis of data to verify accuracy before communication and submittal to the Project Manager.
  • Communicates information to Project Manager and other personnel as directed by the Project Manager.
  • May interact with client and other site personnel to provide input on appropriate resolution of findings.
  • May assist Project Manager in development of scope for testing and inspection services
  • Coordinate pre-dispatch activities with Project, Department, and/or Office Managers.
  • Maintains equipment operation and calibration.
  • May assist more senior inspectors on large, complex projects.
  • Drive a vehicle such as a Ford F-150 or equivalent.
  • Follow safety rules and practices and other safety requirements for all projects. Performs pre-task planning prior to executing work. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Associates degree in Civil Engineering Technology or Construction Engineering Technology preferred.
  • Minimum 2-4 years' experience in construction inspection.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.

Required Certification:
  • Successful completion of related internal safety certifications.
  • At least three or more certifications in the following areas:
    • NICET Level II certification in Construction Materials Testing (Asphalt, Concrete, Soils).
    • NICET Level II certification in Geotechnical (Construction, Laboratory, Exploration, Generalist)
    • ICC certification (Reinforced Concrete, Spray-applied Fireproofing, Structural Masonry, Prestressed/Post-Tensioned Concrete, Structural Steel - Bolting, Structural Steel - Welding).
    • American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
    • American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification (Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Dye Penetrant Testing (PT), Radiographic Testing (RT), Ultrasonic Testing (UT)).
    • Other national, regional, state, and local Materials related certifications requiring experience and written examination will also be considered if deemed appropriate by the Terracon Department Manager.
  • ACI certification* in one or more of the following areas:
    • Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I
    • Concrete Strength Testing Technician

*ACI certification not required if AWS CWI, ASNT Level II, VT, MT, PT, RT or UT certification(s) have been obtained and concrete field and laboratory testing is not required as part of the job level description.
  • Certified in radiation safety and Nuclear Density Gauge operation**.

**Nuclear Density Gauge operation certification not required if AWS CWI, ASNT Level II, VT, MT, PT, RT or UT certification(s) have been obtained and soils testing is not required as part of the job level description.
About Us
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
About the Team
The chemistry that holds our materials team together is made of integrity, creativity, and care. We represent Terracon's largest technician and inspection workforce and ensure the materials used to build the nation's roads, bridges, airports, stadiums, and other structures are safe and sound. With our broad range of qualifications, specialized certifications, and building materials professionals, we are on-site, evaluating and testing materials in real-time to keep the pace of our clients' project, collecting and reporting data digitally to deliver critical insights. With our nationwide footprint of offices and laboratories, bench strength, flexibility, and diverse capabilities we identify issues and expedite solutions whenever problems arise.

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