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Caltrans Inspector Jobs in Bakersfield, CA (NOW HIRING)

NV5

Engineering Manager- Geotechnical

Bakersfield, CA

$170K - $200K/yr

Engineering Manager of laboratory testing and special inspection services on DSA/HCAI, Caltrans and local jurisdiction having authority (JHA) projects. * Plans, assigns, prioritizes, evaluates, and ...

NV5

Engineering Manager- Geotechnical

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Engineering Manager of laboratory testing and special inspection services on DSA/HCAI, Caltrans and local jurisdiction having authority (JHA) projects. * Plans, assigns, prioritizes, evaluates, and ...

NV5

Engineering Manager- Geotechnical

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Engineering Manager of laboratory testing and special inspection services on DSA/HCAI, Caltrans and local jurisdiction having authority (JHA) projects. * Plans, assigns, prioritizes, evaluates, and ...

NV5

Senior Field Technician

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

DSA Structural Masonry Inspectors are highly sought * Caltrans Certifications through JTCP and Field Certifications. Our office is located in Bakersfield, CA and we offer services throughout Kern ...

BKF

Resident Engineer - Transportation

Bakersfield, CA · Hybrid

$190K - $250K/yr

Works in conjunction with technical field inspectors and project team members to ensure civil ... Working knowledge of CALTRANS and local agency projects, as well as document coordination on ...

All JobsCaltrans Inspector JobsCaltrans Inspector Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

Caltrans Inspector information

See Bakersfield, CA salary details

$12

$28

$53

How much do caltrans inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for caltrans inspector in Bakersfield, CA is $28.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.13 and $32.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Caltrans inspector?

A Caltrans Inspector is a professional responsible for overseeing and ensuring the quality, safety, and compliance of construction and maintenance projects on California's state highways and transportation infrastructure. Their duties include inspecting construction sites, reviewing materials and methods, documenting work progress, and ensuring contractors follow project specifications and state regulations. Caltrans Inspectors play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and longevity of California's roadways and transportation systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Caltrans inspector?

To thrive as a Caltrans Inspector, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, construction practices, and relevant codes, often supported by a degree in engineering or construction management and prior field experience. Familiarity with inspection tools, project management software, and relevant certifications such as the American Concrete Institute (ACI) or Caltrans-specific certifications are typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help inspectors collaborate with contractors and ensure regulatory compliance. These skills are essential for maintaining safety, quality, and efficiency on public infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges Caltrans inspectors face during construction projects?

Caltrans Inspectors often encounter challenges such as managing tight project timelines, ensuring contractor compliance with state and federal regulations, and addressing unexpected site conditions like weather or soil issues. They must maintain clear communication between contractors, engineers, and project managers to resolve conflicts quickly and keep projects on track. Staying updated on evolving safety standards and documentation procedures is also essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Caltrans Inspector vs Construction Inspector?

AspectCaltrans InspectorConstruction Inspector
CredentialsTypically requires Caltrans-specific certifications and state licensingOften requires general construction certifications and state or local licenses
Work EnvironmentPrimarily works on Caltrans projects, overseeing highway and transportation infrastructureWorks on various construction sites, including roads, bridges, and buildings
Employer & IndustryEmployed by Caltrans or state agencies, focused on public transportation projectsEmployed by construction companies, contractors, or private firms

Caltrans Inspectors and Construction Inspectors share similar roles in overseeing construction quality and safety. However, Caltrans Inspectors specifically focus on Caltrans projects, often requiring state-specific certifications, while Construction Inspectors may work on a broader range of private or public projects with general construction credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Caltrans Inspector jobs in Bakersfield, CA?

For Caltrans Inspector jobs in Bakersfield, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Caltrans Inspector jobs in Bakersfield, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Caltrans Inspector jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:

What cities near Bakersfield, CA are hiring for Caltrans Inspector jobs?

Cities near Bakersfield, CA with the most Caltrans Inspector job openings:

Caltrans Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Caltrans Inspector job openings in Bakersfield, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,850 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Welding Inspector/Engineering Technician/Special Inspector

BSK Associates

Bakersfield, CA

$27.88 - $40.38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Conduct observations, monitoring, and testing to ensure compliance with plans and specifications.

  • Read and understand plans and specifications relevant to inspection duties.

  • Write daily field reports and non-conformance reports.

Job description

Join Our Team as a Welding Inspector/Engineering Technician/Special Inspector! 

BSK Associates, a trusted name in engineering with over 60 years of excellence, is looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated Welding Inspector/Engineering Technician/Special Inspector to join our Team. As an employee-owned company, we take pride in our workplace, and it shows!  

What makes BSK unique? 

  • Welcoming and Supportive Culture: Step into a friendly, inclusive environment where you'll feel valued, equipped with the tools you need, and free to be yourself. 
  • Empowering Management: Our leadership trusts you to excel in your role, is approachable, and prioritizes safety and work-life balance-values we live by, not just talk about. 
  • Core Values: We are guided by values of quality service, professionalism, teamwork, safety, employee development, accountability, and proactivity which you'll see reflected in our day-to-day work.

Full-Time employees receive our comprehensive compensation package which includes 100% employer paid Medical insurance with by-up options for your dependents. Employee and Dependent Dental and Vision plans, Employee Assistance Program, ESOP and 401k plans. 8 Paid Holidays, Paid Sick and Paid Vacation time earned on an accrued basis. The pay range for this position is $27.88-$40.38 paid hourly, offers will be based on the successful candidate's experience.  

Department: Construction Services 

Role & Responsibilities

  • Observations, monitoring and testing for compliance with plans and specifications.
  • Ability to understand and read plans and specifications that are applicable to the inspection duties and requirements.
  • Knowledge of the California Building Code (CBC), International Building Code (IBC), ASTM Standards, ACI Standards and AWS Standards.
  • Ability to clearly write daily field reports and non-conformance reports.
  • Exercise high levels of ethics.
  • Have and maintain a clean driving record.
  • Work dispatched reasonably close to home.
  • Anticipated travel could be up to two hours daily on average.

Work Location:

  • In person
  • You will be based in Bakersfield and will cover projects primarily in Kern County, Tulare County, Kings County, Fresno County, San Luis Obispo County, Monterey County and Los Angeles County. Can vary depending on project demands.
Requirements
  • Have or be willing to acquire ICC Soils, ICC Reinforced Concrete, ICC Structural Steel, ICC Reinforced Masonry, ICC Fireproofing, ACI Level I Technician, AWS, CWI, NDT, testing and Nuclear Gauge certifications in a timely fashion.
  • Have or be willing to acquire Caltrans Certifications (both field and lab), including CT 135, 231, 375, and 500 series.
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Valid California Driver's License, maintain a clean driving record.
  • Position eligible for prevailing wage compensation on publicly funded projects.

Experience

  • Construction Experience: 2 years (Preferred)

License/Certification

  • Driver's License Required
  • ICC Inspector, ACI, and Caltrans Certifications (Preferred for some positions)

Expected Competencies

  • Communication: Active Listening, Communicativeness, Informal Communication, Written Communication
  • Interpersonal: Assertiveness, Conflict Management, and Diplomacy
  • Personal: Composure, High Standards, and Integrity

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