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Civil Engineer Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Associate Civil Engineer

Carson, CA ยท On-site

$113K - $145K/yr

... inspection activities. Engineer must have CIP experience with, for and/or at public agencies ... Principles and practicies of civil engineering. * Modern methods and techniques as applied to ...

Senior Civil Engineer

Fontana, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Senior Civil Engineer (PE) Location: El Monte or Fontana, CA Compensation: $150,000 to $190,000 ... Conduct field inspections to verify construction quality and compliance with engineering standards.

Senior Civil Engineer

Fontana, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Senior Civil Engineer (PE) Location: El Monte or Fontana, CA Compensation: $150,000 to $190,000 ... Conduct field inspections to verify construction quality and compliance with engineering standards.

Senior Civil Engineer (PE) Location: El Monte or Fontana, CA Compensation: $150,000 to $190,000 ... Conduct field inspections to verify construction quality and compliance with engineering standards.

Senior Civil Engineer

Diamond Bar, CA ยท On-site

$90 - $120/hr

As a Senior Civil Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing ... Conducting regular inspections and assessments to identify and address potential risks or issues

As a Senior Civil Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing ... Conducting regular inspections and assessments to identify and address potential risks or issues

As a Senior Civil Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing ... Conducting regular inspections and assessments to identify and address potential risks or issues

As a Senior Civil Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing ... Conducting regular inspections and assessments to identify and address potential risks or issues

... inspect public works projects for conformance with plans, specifications, applicable codes, and engineering principles; plan and coordinate all aspects of project design, construction, and operation ...

Senior Civil Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$135K - $163K/yr

... inspect public works projects for conformance with plans, specifications, applicable codes, and engineering principles; plan and coordinate all aspects of project design, construction, and operation ...

Showing results 41-60

Civil Engineer Inspector information

See California salary details

$35K

$62K

$86.4K

How much do civil engineer inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineer inspector in California is $61,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $69,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by civil engineer inspectors during construction projects?

Civil Engineer Inspectors often encounter challenges such as coordinating between multiple contractors, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, and addressing unexpected site conditions. They must be adept at problem-solving on the spot and maintaining clear, professional communication with project managers, engineers, and construction crews. Staying current with codes and standards, as well as managing documentation efficiently, are also crucial for keeping projects on track and within specifications.

What is the difference between Civil Engineer Inspector vs Civil Engineering Technician?

AspectCivil Engineer InspectorCivil Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field; often licensed or certifiedAssociate's degree or technical certificate in civil engineering technology
Work EnvironmentOn-site inspections, construction sites, project oversightOffice and field work, assisting engineers with data collection and analysis
Employer & Industry UsagePublic agencies, construction firms, engineering consulting firmsEngineering firms, construction companies, government agencies

The Civil Engineer Inspector primarily oversees construction projects, ensuring compliance with plans and safety standards, requiring a bachelor's degree and often certification. Civil Engineering Technicians support engineers through data collection and technical tasks, typically holding an associate's degree. Both roles are vital in construction and infrastructure projects but differ in education, responsibilities, and scope of work.

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

To thrive as a Civil Engineer Inspector, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, construction materials, and building codes, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field. Familiarity with inspection software, CAD systems, and relevant certifications such as NICET or state licensure are often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills are essential soft skills for ensuring project compliance and working with contractors. These skills and qualifications are vital to uphold safety standards, project quality, and regulatory compliance throughout construction projects.

What is a civil engineer inspector?

Civil Engineer Inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that construction projects comply with design specifications, codes, and safety standards. They inspect various aspects of civil engineering projects, such as roads, bridges, and buildings, to verify the quality of materials and workmanship. Their duties often include reviewing plans, observing construction processes, documenting findings, and coordinating with contractors and engineers to resolve issues. Civil Engineer Inspectors play a crucial role in maintaining public safety and project integrity.
Infographic showing various Civil Engineer Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,965 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Associate Civil Engineer

City of Carson, CA

Carson, CA โ€ข On-site

$113K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Salary : $113,692.80 - $145,121.60 Annually
Location : CITY OF CARSON, CA
Job Type: FULL-TIME
Job Number: 2400085
Department: PUBLIC WORKS
Opening Date: 11/06/2024
THE POSITION
CONTINUOUS UNTIL FILLED
The City of Carson is seeking eligible candidates for the position of Associate Civil Engineer.
Applicants must possess valid Civil Engineering license (PE) in the State of California.
We are excited to welcome a talented and driven individual to join our team as a Civil Engineer! Ideally, you will bring five (5) years of professional civil engineering experience and hold a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in civil engineering from a recognized college or university. We are looking for a candidate who has hands-on experience with engineering designs and the construction of infrastructure projects, proficiency in CAD, and excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. You should be someone who can tackle tasks independently with confidence and precision. Under general direction, you will have the opportunity to plan and coordinate capital improvement projects and engage in a variety of professional engineering duties, making a tangible impact through your work.
Come be a part of our dynamic team where your expertise will shine, and your contributions will help shape the future of our community!
Great benefits
-100% Fully paid family medical (KAISER family rate)
-CalPERS Retirement
-4/10 Schedule
-Tuition Reimbursement up to 100% equivalent to CSUDH
-Full Time Retiree Medical after 10 years of service
CLASS DESCRIPTION:
Under general direction, plans and coordinates capital improvement projects and performs a variety of professional engineering duties in design and construction inspection activities. Engineer must have CIP experience with, for and/or at public agencies, cities and/or counties, which includes street improvements, traffic signals, stormwater, sewers, recycled water, irrigation, landscape and Right of Way (ROW).
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
(These functions are representative and may not be present in all position in the class. Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind related duties and work assignments.)
  1. Develops comprehensive plans for the design and construction of major public works projects.
  2. As project engineer for assigned projects, plans and organizes the design and construction of major public works facilities.
  3. Engineer should have CIP experience with, for and/or at public agencies, cities and/or counties, which includes street improvements, traffic signals, stormwater, sewers, recycled water, irrigation, landscape and Right of Way (ROW).
  4. Coordinates and monitors project progress to insure timely progress of permit clearances and acquisitions/right-of-way, plans/specifications, contracting and budget monitoring.
  5. Coordinates activities with other departments and outside agencies to obtain various approvals.
  6. Participates in the selection process for consultants and contracts.
  7. Acts as contract administrator on capital projects.
  8. Participates in the development of plans, specifications and estimates for the construction of public works projects.
  9. Inspects project sites to assist in the solution of difficult problems.
  10. Interprets specifications and city policy.
  11. Reviews plans for construction prepared by private engineers.
  12. Prepares various applications for State and Federal grants.
  13. Assists in the preparation of capital improvement plans and budget.
  14. Prepares necessary Council agenda items.
  15. Confers with staff regarding project priorities and programs.
  16. Provides information to and consults with the public.
  17. Performs related duties as required or necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS
A typical way to obtain the requisite qualifications to perform the duties of this class is as follows:
Education and/or Experience:
Any combination equivalent to graduation from a recognized college or university with a baccalaureate degree in civil engineering or related field and three (3) years of full time, paid professional experience in civil engineering. Experience and/or education in a related field may be substituted on a year for year basis.
Knowledge of:
  • Principles and practicies of civil engineering.
  • Modern methods and techniques as applied to design, construction, maintenance and contract administration of public works projects.
  • Grant-in-aid programs as they relate to public works.
  • Computer aided design (CAD).
  • Design and construction of major public works facilities.
Skill and Ability to:
  • Administer and coordinate various activities of the engineering section and to evaluate the effectiveness of those functions.
  • Effectively communicate in writing and orally.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
  • Legally operate a motor vehicle in the State of California.
License and Certificate:
Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license. Employees in this classification will be enrolled in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Government Employer Pull Notice Program which confirms possession of a valid driver's license and reflects driving record. Possession of a certificate of registration as a professional civil engineering in the State of California is required.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
Employee accommodations for physical or mental disabilities will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Positions in this class normally:
  • Require to meet approved minimal physical and medical standards.
  • Require vision (which may be corrected) to read small print.
  • Perform lifting, pushing and/or pulling which does not exceed 50 pounds and is an infrequent aspect of the job.
  • Is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions.
  • May be required to use city or personal vehicle in the course of employment.
  • May be required to attend periodic evening meetings and/or to travel within and out of City boundaries to attend meetings.

RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Applications will be screened and evaluated for relevant training and experience. Applications must be complete and include any and all required documents. Only those applicants determined to be among the most qualified may be invited to participate in the examination process which will consist of the following sections:
  • Supplemental Questionnaire, no weight
  • Oral Exam 100%
The Human Resources Department reserves the right to adjust, modify, delete and/or change the above exam types and/or weights.
Supplemental questionnaires are used to evaluate applicant's indicated abilities with the ideal candidate profile. Applicants must achieve a cut-off score of 70% or above on oral examination to be placed on the eligibility list. Passing any/all of the examination sections does not guarantee an invitation to the selection interview. The Human Resources Department reserves the right to invite those amongst the highest scoring to the next phase of the recruitment.
Revisions to a testing component during a recruitment process can be made at the discretion of the Human Resources Department. Applicants will be notified by email if a revision is made. An eligibility list will be established in accordance with the City's Personnel Rules, Rule VI, Employment List Procedures.
OTHER INFORMATION
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
The City of Carson is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds and strive to build collaborative teams that reflect the rich diversity of our community.
Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, registered domestic partner status, national origin, ancestry, mental or physical disability (including HIV and AIDS), medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, age (40 and over), military and veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
We are committed to equal opportunity and compliance with all applicable employment laws. Join us and be part of cultivating a workplace that values and celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion!
Accommodation for Applicants with Disabilities:
Applicants with disabilities who require special testing arrangements must contact the City of Carson Human Resources Department at (310) 952-1736 at least five (5) business days prior to the scheduled examination date. If you need an accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment process, please reach out to us as early as possible.
APPOINTMENT: Any offer of employment, or acceptance of an employment offer, is contingent upon passing pre-employment physical, , background check and other required tests. All new employees are required to take a loyalty oath.
The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provisions contained herein may be modified or revoked without notice. All statements made on the job application are subject to investigation and/or verification. Inaccurate and/or false statements will be cause for disqualification, removal from the eligibility list or discharge from employment.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This recruitment is open.
CURRENT CITY OF CARSON EMPLOYEES: Please do not use your City of Carson email address as part of this applications. You must indicate a personal email address in order to receive communication and/or notices from Human Resources throughout the recruitment process.
For more information, please click on the link below.
01
1. The following supplemental questions will be used to assist us in screening your application. You are required to answer each of the following questions truthfully and completely. This questionnaire will be used to determine if you meet the minimum qualifications for this job. Your responses to this questionnaire may also be used to evaluate your qualifications beyond the minimum requirements, as part of the application screening process. As such, please take the time necessary to answer the questions thoroughly. Applications submitted without a completed supplemental questionnaire, or those that say see resume or application, may not be considered. It is imperative that your responses to the questionnaire provide a true and accurate reflection of your background. Additionally, your answers MUST be supported by the information you have entered in your general application. Responses which cannot be substantiated by information contained in your application will be deemed invalid. Falsification, exaggeration and misrepresentation will result in your disqualification. Your responses will be evaluated as submitted. Do you agree to answer the following questions truthfully and completely AND understand that falsification or overstatement of your qualifications is grounds for disqualification of your application?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Which one of the following statements best describes the highest education you earned?
Please note: Proof of education (AA degree or higher) must be attached at the time of submission with your application.
  • I earned a high school/GED certificate.
  • I earned an Associates degree.
  • I earned a Bachelor's degree.
  • I earned a graduate degree.

03
For the degree completed and selected above, please list your major area of study, (e.g. civil engineering, etc.). If you have no degree mark N/A
04
Are you currently registered with the State of California as a Professional Civil Engineer?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you possess at least four years of professional civil engineering experience?
  • Yes
  • No

06
If you are currently in the process of obtaining your (PE) Professional Engineer License in civil engineering, please state the date of completion.
07
Select all areas where you have four or more years of professional civil engineering experience in the planning, design and construction of public works infrastructure capital projects.
  • Land Development
  • Coastal Engineering
  • Streets
  • Facilities
  • Parks
  • Water Systems
  • Sewer Systems
  • Storm Drains
  • Other
  • None

08
Indicate where you obtained the experience noted above including employer, job title and dates of employment. Also indicate any other areas of experience you possess. If you have no experience, mark N/A.
09
Please select all areas where you have project management/oversight experience.
  • Preparing contracts and/or agreements.
  • Preparing schedules and timelines.
  • Training and monitoring.
  • Working with various stakeholders in executing a project.
  • Being the lead/coordinator of a large project.
  • I do not have project management/oversight experience

10
Did you attach all the required documents? Failure to attach any of the required documents may and will result in your disqualification from the current recruitment.
  • No
  • Yes

Required Question