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Car Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

LUV Car Wash

Car Wash Field Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$35 - $38/hr

Since launching in September 2021, LUV Car Wash has been on a mission - and we're just getting ... Conduct site inspections to find or complete preventative maintenance/repairs on equipment such as ...

LUV Car Wash

Car Wash Field Technician

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Since launching in September 2021, LUV Car Wash has been on a mission - and we're just getting ... Conduct site inspections to find or complete preventative maintenance/repairs on equipment such as ...

LUV car wash

Car Wash Field Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $29.50/hr

Our mission is to become a top car wash company by growing our people, creating and maintaining ... Conduct site inspections to find or complete preventative maintenance/repairs on equipment such as ...

LUV Car Wash

Car Wash Field Technician

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Our mission is to become a top car wash company by growing our people, creating and maintaining ... Conduct site inspections to find or complete preventative maintenance/repairs on equipment such as ...

LUV Car Wash

Car Wash Field Technician

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Since launching in September 2021, LUV Car Wash has been on a mission - and we're just getting ... Conduct site inspections to find or complete preventative maintenance/repairs on equipment such as ...

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All JobsCar Inspection JobsCar Inspection Jobs in California

Car Inspection information

See California salary details

$11

$27

$56

How much do car inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for car inspection in California is $27.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Car Inspector, you need a solid understanding of automotive systems, diagnostic procedures, and relevant safety regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma or vocational training in automotive technology. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, inspection checklists, and sometimes ASE certification is commonly required. Attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurately identifying issues and explaining findings to customers or colleagues. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure vehicle safety, regulatory compliance, and customer trust in automotive services.

How do you become a car inspector?

To become a car inspector, you typically need to complete a state-approved training program and obtain a certification or license, which involves passing written and practical exams. Some states require relevant experience or a background in automotive repair, and inspectors often work in vehicle inspection stations or government agencies.

What are some common challenges faced by car inspectors, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Car inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, staying updated with rapidly changing automotive technologies, and ensuring thoroughness under time constraints. To address these, inspectors should prioritize safety protocols, participate in regular training sessions to stay current with industry standards, and use checklists to maintain consistency and accuracy. Additionally, strong communication skills are essential when discussing findings with customers or team members, ensuring transparency and trust.

How much do car inspectors make in the US?

Car inspectors in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and certification level. Many inspectors work full-time, often with a background in automotive repair or inspection tools, and may need state licensing or certification to perform inspections legally.

What is a car inspection?

A car inspection is a thorough checkup of a vehicle’s condition, typically performed by a certified mechanic or inspector. It involves examining various components such as brakes, tires, lights, emissions, and safety features to ensure the car meets legal and safety standards. Car inspections are often required by law when registering a vehicle, after an accident, or as a part of regular maintenance. The process helps identify any necessary repairs or maintenance, ensuring the vehicle is safe to drive.

What is the difference between Car Inspection vs Vehicle Inspector?

AspectCar InspectionVehicle Inspector
CredentialsState-certified inspectors, automotive knowledgeState or federal certification, vehicle safety knowledge
Work EnvironmentInspection stations, automotive shopsInspection sites, government facilities
Industry UsagePrivate and commercial vehicle inspectionsRegulatory vehicle safety assessments

Car Inspection typically refers to the process of checking individual vehicles for safety and compliance, often performed at private stations. Vehicle Inspector is a broader role involving official safety assessments mandated by government agencies. While both roles require automotive knowledge and certification, Vehicle Inspectors often have additional regulatory responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps clarify job expectations and career paths in vehicle safety and compliance.

What are popular job titles related to Car Inspection jobs in California?

For Car Inspection jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Car Inspection jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Car Inspection jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Car Inspection jobs?

Cities in California with the most Car Inspection job openings:

Car Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Car Inspection job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,529 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Automotive Detailer - Car Washer - Curtner - Full Time

Enterprise Holdings

San Jose, CA • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Enterprise Holdings rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 267 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

111th of 173 rated vehicle equipment hire

Job description

Overview
Enterprise Mobility is seeking a responsible, dedicated person to join our team as a full time Automotive Detailer. This position pays $19/Hr. and is located at 395 CURTNER AVE SAN JOSE, CA 95125. This position requires a valid CA drivers license.
Schedule:
  • Sunday(rotating): 9am- 1pm
  • Monday: 9am- 6pm
  • Tuesday: 9am- 6pm
  • Wednesday: 9am- 6pm
  • Thursday: 9am- 6pm
  • Friday: 9am- 6pm
  • Saturday(rotating): 9am- 1pm

We offer:
  • Paid time off
  • Consistent full time 40 hour per week schedule
  • Employee discount
  • Retirement savings plan including 401k with matching profit sharing
  • Health Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Training and development

We are dedicated to upholding the highest cleanliness standards in the industry. As an Auto Detailer and Car Washer, you will lead our commitment to exceptional cleaning practices, exceeding standard protocols to ensure the health and safety of everyone.
You will be responsible for washing, cleaning, sanitizing, inspecting, and preparing a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and vans, ensuring they meet our high cleanliness and safety standards for customer rentals.
Enterprise Mobility is a leading provider of mobility solutions, owning and operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its integrated global network of independent regional subsidiaries. Enterprise Mobility and its affiliates offer extensive car rental, carsharing, truck rental, fleet management, retail car sales, as well as travel management and other transportation services, to make travel easier and more convenient for customers.
Privately held by the Taylor family of St. Louis, Enterprise Mobility together with its affiliate Enterprise Fleet Management manages a diverse fleet of 2.4 million vehicles through a network of more than 9,500 fully-staffed neighborhood and airport rental locations in more than 90 countries and territories.
Responsibilities
We are hiring now for immediate openings. Responsibilities include:
  • Clean, sanitize, vacuum, and prepare vehicle interior according to industry-standard protocols
  • Wash, clean and dry the vehicle's exterior - this might include cars of different sizes, as well as vans and trucks.
  • Check fuel level and warning lights: inspect windshield for damage; factory reset/restore vehicle setting to clear prior customer data; check for customer items and place anything of value in Lost & Found; verify that registration is present, current and matches the license plate.
  • Check fluid levels and add as needed; check tire condition, pressure and tread depth; inspect vehicle exterior for damage
  • Fuel and stage vehicle
  • Inspect vehicle for any safety concerns; report any warning lights and/or vehicle/windshield/tire damage; pull vehicle out of the prep processing as necessary
  • Maintains a clean and orderly work area and report any unsafe or hazardous conditions
  • Operate tools such as carpet shampoo machines or air purifiers to eliminate stains, pet hair, and odors
  • Assists customers when needed. May transport customers to and from the branches
  • Helps maintain overall site appearance including general cleaning of interior and exteriors of branch locations
  • Site appearance responsibilities to include: desktops, countertops, phones, floors, trash, bathrooms, vacuuming, sweeping the lot and any other miscellaneous tasks related to the daily cleanliness of the branch location

Additional Responsibilities
  • Seek to improve job performance through self-assessment, skill development, training and goal setting
  • Maintain a regular and reliable level of attendance and punctuality
  • Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned

Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veterans
Qualifications
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States and not require work authorization sponsorship by our company for this position now or in the future.

We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories as required by, and consistent with, applicable law.

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