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Civil Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Parsons

Senior Civil Inspector

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

Civil Construction Inspector Fountain Valley, California (Support projects across Orange County, California) Parsons is the premier choice for worldclass design, engineering, and construction ...

Hill International

Sr. Civil Inspector

Pomona, CA · On-site

$115K - $135K/yr

Hill International is seeking a Sr Civil Inspector in Pomona, California Responsibilities * Oversees all civil construction work. * Ensures that the services provided to the customer meet internal ...

Hill International

Sr. Civil Inspector

Pomona, CA

$115K - $135K/yr

Hill International is seeking a Sr Civil Inspector in Pomona, California Hill International, with more than 4,300+ professionals in over 100 offices worldwide, provides program management, project ...

Zephyr Rail

Civil Inspector - Track/Rail

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$104K - $187K/yr

Job Summary As a Civil Inspector - Rail, you will be Zephyr Rail's eyes and ears on-site, ensuring the highest standards of quality and compliance on our heavy construction projects with a focus on ...

RamosCS

Civil Construction Inspector

Glendale, CA · On-site

$156K - $176K/yr

Overview Ramos CS, now a part of Colliers Engineering & Design, is actively hiring a Civil Construction Inspector to perform detailed inspections on roadway and transit projects, provide ...

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All JobsCivil Inspector JobsCivil Inspector Jobs in California

Civil Inspector information

See California salary details

$19

$33

$52

How much do civil inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for civil inspector in California is $33.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.83 and $38.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Civil Inspector, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, construction methods, and relevant codes, typically supported by a degree or diploma in civil engineering or construction management. Familiarity with inspection tools, project management software, and often certifications such as NICET or equivalent are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills for ensuring compliance and resolving site issues. These skills ensure that construction projects meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards, preventing costly errors and delays.

What are some common challenges faced by Civil Inspectors during site inspections and how are they typically addressed?

Civil Inspectors often encounter challenges such as discrepancies between construction work and approved plans, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and managing communication between multiple stakeholders on-site. To address these, inspectors must maintain detailed records, conduct regular site visits, and proactively communicate issues to contractors and project managers. Collaboration and a thorough understanding of building codes and project specifications are essential for effectively resolving such challenges and ensuring project quality.

What is the role of a civil inspector?

A civil inspector oversees construction projects to ensure compliance with design specifications, safety standards, and building codes. They conduct site inspections, review plans, and document progress, often using tools like measurement equipment and safety gear. Civil inspectors play a key role in maintaining quality and safety throughout the construction process.

What kind of inspectors make the most money?

Senior civil inspectors, especially those with specialized skills in structural, geotechnical, or environmental inspection, tend to earn the highest salaries. Inspectors with advanced certifications, extensive experience, and the ability to oversee complex projects generally command higher pay in the industry.

What are Civil Inspectors?

Civil Inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that construction projects comply with building codes, regulations, and approved plans. They monitor work at construction sites, inspect materials and workmanship, and document any issues or violations. Civil Inspectors play a crucial role in maintaining safety, quality, and regulatory standards throughout the construction process. They often work for government agencies, engineering firms, or private companies overseeing public and private infrastructure projects.

How hard is it to be a construction inspector?

Being a civil inspector involves understanding construction plans, building codes, and safety regulations, often requiring attention to detail and strong communication skills. The job can be physically demanding and may require certifications such as NICET or state licensing, with work typically performed on construction sites in various weather conditions. Success depends on technical knowledge, experience, and the ability to enforce standards consistently.

What is the difference between Civil Inspector vs Construction Inspector?

AspectCivil InspectorConstruction Inspector
CertificationsOften requires civil engineering or related certificationsTypically requires construction or engineering certifications
Work EnvironmentInspecting public infrastructure, roads, bridges, and utilitiesInspecting building sites, structures, and construction processes
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, civil engineering firms, infrastructure projectsConstruction companies, contractors, private firms
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

While both Civil Inspectors and Construction Inspectors ensure safety and compliance, Civil Inspectors focus on public infrastructure projects like roads and bridges, often working for government agencies. Construction Inspectors primarily oversee building sites and private construction projects. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and certifications.

How much do inspectors make per inspection?

Civil inspectors are typically paid an hourly wage or salary rather than per inspection. When paid per inspection, rates can vary based on the complexity of the project, location, and experience, often ranging from $50 to $200 per inspection. Many inspectors work on a salaried basis or hourly, with additional compensation for overtime or specialized certifications.
What are popular job titles related to Civil Inspector jobs in California? For Civil Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Civil Inspector jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Civil Inspector jobs in California are:
Civil Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civil Inspector job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,045 per year, or $33.2 per hour.
Senior Civil Inspector

Senior Civil Inspector

Parsons Corporation

Fountain Valley, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Parsons rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 369 rated engineering

Job description

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!
At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what's possible.
Job Description:
Civil Construction Inspector
Fountain Valley, California (Support projects across Orange County, California)
Parsons is the premier choice for world-class design, engineering, and construction services-and we're growing our team in California. We're looking for experienced Civil Construction Inspectors who want to play a key role on complex, impactful infrastructure projects in and around Fountain Valley, CA, supporting work across the Orange County, CA.
If you're passionate about quality, safety, and doing work that really matters to local communities, this role is for you.
Compensation
Competitive Prevailing Wage: This position is covered under California prevailing wage requirements, ensuring you are fairly and competitively compensated for your skills, experience, and the specialized nature of the work you perform.
What You'll Be Doing
You'll be a key eyes-and-ears professional in the field, ensuring work is built right-the first time. In this role, you will:
  • Perform complex construction inspection tasks on active job sites
  • Provide continuous surveillance of assigned construction activities to verify compliance with codes, standards, and project specifications
  • Focus on one or more technical areas such as soils, concrete, mechanical, civil, structural, and wastewater pipelines
  • Support major wastewater treatment plant and sanitary sewer pipeline and force main projects

Key Responsibilities
  • Inspect construction work to verify compliance with contract plans, specs, codes, regulations, and safety standards
  • Review and interpret construction documents, drawings, and specifications
  • Verify that materials and workmanship meet project and specification requirements
  • Inspect plant and collection system construction performed by contractors
  • Coordinate equipment and process isolations, shutdowns, and tie-ins
  • Support safety efforts, including job hazard analyses
  • Monitor contractor safety practices and traffic control plans; help maintain a safe work environment for employees, the public, and contractors
  • Document and follow up on safety and traffic control issues and corrective actions
  • Assist with maintaining accurate as-built drawings and verify contractor as-builts
  • Support Resident Engineers on field change orders, plan clarifications, and design changes
  • Review and approve final drawings for record documentation
  • Prepare and maintain detailed inspection records, including:
    • Daily inspection reports
    • Photo logs
    • Field test results
    • Force account reports
    • Extra work requests
    • Submittal files
    • Project logs
  • Assist with monthly progress reports and participate in construction meetings
  • Coordinate with contractors, utilities, regulatory agencies, city officials, and the public to minimize project impacts and ensure successful delivery

You'll be expected and supported to travel and/or temporarily relocate to field sites as project needs require.
What We're Looking For
We're seeking civil construction inspection professionals who bring strong technical skills, sound judgment, and a collaborative mindset.
Basic Qualifications
  • Education:
    • 2-year degree in a technical or construction-related field, or
    • High school diploma with equivalent, relevant work experience
  • Experience:
    • 5-8 years of related experience on heavy construction projects
    • Formal certification(s) from an independent organization, depending on inspection discipline (e.g., concrete, soils, mechanical, electrical, etc.)
  • Technical Skills:
    • Ability to read and interpret drawings and construction specifications
    • Strong understanding of construction means and methods in your area(s) of specialization
    • Ability to produce clear, detailed field documentation and reports
  • Certificates:
    • OSHA 10-hour Outreach Training Program - Construction
    • OSHA Fall Protection
    • OSHA Permit-Required Confined Space Entry
  • Preferred/Plus:
    • Experience and expertise in inspection of sewer manhole rehabilitation.
    • Background in wastewater treatment facilities, sewer collection systems, or large municipal infrastructure

Why Join Parsons?
At Parsons, you will:
  • Work on essential infrastructure that protects public health and the environment
  • Join a company recognized as a leader in Technical Services and Engineering
  • Collaborate with a team of highly skilled professionals tackling complex, high-profile projects
  • Gain opportunities for growth, development, and exposure to multiple disciplines (civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, pipeline, and more)
  • Be part of a culture that values safety, quality, and innovation

Ready to Take the Next Step?
We're looking for people who see this opportunity and don't hesitate to act-professionals who take pride in their work, communicate well in the field, and want to see tangible results from their efforts.
  • If this sounds like you, take your next step and apply today.

Security Clearance Requirement:
None
This position is part of our Critical Infrastructure team.
For more than 80 years, our experts have designed and delivered the critical infrastructure that connects and protects communities around the world. We work in collaborative teams, both within the company and with our partners and customers, to plan, design, build, and modernize infrastructure. We take special pride in projects and solutions that improve communities as well as people's quality of life by promoting economic growth, enhancing mobility, and increasing sustainability and resiliency. Powered by our people, we provide the imagination necessary to support our customers' visions-and to help them see what's next!
Salary Range: $15.68 - $71.30
We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!
Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.
We truly invest and care about our employee's wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest-APPLY TODAY!
Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer to https://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.

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