Caltrans Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Construction Inspector - Job Description (California)

Introduction

Salaber Associates is a recognized leader in the construction management and inspection industry. Our organization is built on a foundation of integrity, exceptional client service, and a strong commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance for our employees. We operate under our founding principle: "Principles Before Profits."

This philosophy guides our relationships with both our clients and our team members. As a result, we are proud to maintain a high rate of repeat clients and strong employee retention. We believe that investing in our employees through training, mentorship, and career advancement strengthens both our people and our company.

If you are seeking an opportunity to contribute to a respected organization while developing your professional career in a supportive team environment, we encourage you to consider joining Salaber Associates. We welcome inquiries from qualified candidates who would like to learn more about the role and explore how they may fit within our organization.

Primary Responsibilities

The Construction Inspector represents the interests of the client or project owner-typically public agencies-by performing quality assurance inspections on roadway and transportation infrastructure projects.

Key responsibilities include:

• Inspect, observe, and document roadway, highway, and bridge construction activities to ensure compliance with approved plans, specifications, and contract requirements.
• Review and interpret construction drawings and specifications, identifying and reporting discrepancies or conflicts in project documentation or field conditions.
• Collaborate with contractors and project staff to identify potential contract modifications and assist in the preparation of change orders when necessary.
• Communicate effectively with contractors, project engineers, and owners to resolve construction issues, deficiencies, and project concerns in a timely and professional manner.
• Coordinate quality assurance testing of construction materials and components, including asphalt paving, earthwork, landscaping, steel reinforcement, concrete, striping, signage, drainage systems, traffic control, and stormwater management systems.
• Verify that testing procedures and frequencies comply with the approved Quality Assurance Plan and project specifications.
• Interact regularly with contractors, inspectors, surveyors, materials testing personnel, and members of the public as needed.
• Prepare accurate daily reports documenting construction activities, site conditions, and compliance with contract requirements, including supporting photographic documentation when appropriate.
• Maintain detailed project documentation demonstrating compliance with contract requirements and verifying that materials incorporated into the work meet specified standards.
• Record field measurements and documentation necessary to support progress payments, material verification, and other contractual requirements.
• Perform routine calculations to support technical evaluations and project payment estimates.
• Monitor jobsite safety practices and communicate any observed safety concerns or deficiencies to the contractor or owner's representative. Verify that corrective actions are implemented and effective.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training or a college degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of construction inspection experience on roadway, highway, bridge, or transportation infrastructure projects.
• Experience performing field calculations and quantity measurements to support construction progress payments.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply construction plans and specifications related to highway and bridge construction.
• Demonstrated knowledge of construction jobsite safety practices and procedures applicable to workers and the public.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and standard construction documentation tools.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively in a team environment.
• Familiarity with Caltrans Standard Specifications, local agency standards, or public works construction inspection practices is preferred.
• Relevant certifications such as ACI, NICET, Caltrans, or equivalent materials testing and inspection certifications are preferred but not required at the time of hire. Candidates may be required to obtain appropriate certifications within a specified timeframe after hire.
• Ability to travel to project sites throughout Northern California as required.

Valid driver's license and ability to comply with company vehicle policies.

Prevailing Wage Notice (California)

This position may involve work on public works construction projects subject to California Prevailing Wage laws in accordance with the California Department of Industrial Relations.

When assigned to qualifying public works projects, employees in this position will be paid the applicable prevailing wage rate for Construction Inspectors as determined by the California Department of Industrial Relations for the project location and classification. Prevailing wage rates may exceed the standard hourly pay range listed below and may include additional employer-paid benefits in accordance with California public works requirements.

Benefits

Salaber Associates offers a competitive benefits package that may include:

• Three (3) weeks of Paid Time Off (PTO) annually.
• Nine (9) paid holidays per year.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits (company contribution up to $3,000 per month).
• 401(k) Profit Sharing Program.
• Professional training and certification support

Benefits may vary depending on employment status and project assignment.

Compensation

• Base Hourly Rate: $63 - $70 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Employees assigned to qualifying California public works projects will be paid at applicable prevailing wage rates.
• Compensation and pay structure may vary based on project assignment, certifications, and experience.

Company Culture

Salaber Associates fosters a professional culture built on integrity, high-quality work, and mutual respect among employees and clients. Our organization promotes a collaborative, team-oriented environment that supports work-life balance and continuous professional development.

We take pride in our strong employee retention and our commitment to investing in the success and growth of every member of our team.