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Coating Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

QA/QC Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

NACE / AMPP Coating Inspector * ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician * ISO 9001 QA/QC training * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Skills & Competencies * Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy

QA/QC Inspector

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

NACE / AMPP Coating Inspector * ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician * ISO 9001 QA/QC training * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Skills & Competencies * Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy

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Coating Inspector information

See California salary details

$17

$32

$56

How much do coating inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for coating inspector in California is $32.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $37.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Coating Inspector do?

A Coating Inspector is responsible for evaluating and ensuring the quality and integrity of protective coatings applied to surfaces, such as pipelines, tanks, or structural steel. They inspect surface preparation, application processes, and finished coatings to verify compliance with project specifications and industry standards. Coating Inspectors use various tools to measure thickness, adhesion, and detect any defects or irregularities. Their work helps prevent corrosion, extend the lifespan of assets, and ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Coating Inspector vs NDT Technician?

AspectCoating InspectorNDT Technician
CertificationsSSPC, NACE, AWS certificationsASNT, NAS-410 certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, construction, offshoreManufacturing, aerospace, oil & gas
Job FocusSurface preparation, coating application, inspectionMaterial testing, flaw detection, non-destructive testing
Industry UsageConstruction, maintenance, industrial coating projectsManufacturing, aerospace, power generation

While both roles involve inspection and testing, a Coating Inspector specializes in surface coatings, ensuring proper application and quality, whereas an NDT Technician focuses on non-destructive testing methods to detect flaws in materials. Both roles require specific certifications and are vital in industrial and construction sectors, but they serve different inspection purposes.

What are the three types of coating?

In coating inspection, the three main types of coating are liquid coatings, powder coatings, and metallic coatings. Liquid coatings include paints and varnishes applied with brushes or spray, while powder coatings are applied as dry powders and cured with heat. Metallic coatings, such as galvanization, involve applying metal layers to protect surfaces from corrosion.

What Does a Coating Inspector Do?

A coating inspector checks industrial equipment to ensure protective coatings were correctly applied and minimize corrosion risk. They go through rigorous training to learn how to identify problems in coating applications and to suggest which types of coatings will protect the materials from corroding. Manufacturing plants, roadway projects such as bridges, and other major industries that utilize paint need coating inspectors for quality assurance.

What are some common challenges Coating Inspectors face when working on large-scale construction projects?

Coating Inspectors on large construction sites often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple contractors to ensure coating schedules align with project timelines, dealing with varying weather conditions that can impact coating application and curing, and maintaining strict adherence to industry standards while under tight deadlines. Effective communication with project managers, applicators, and quality control teams is essential to address issues quickly and maintain coating integrity. Navigating these challenges requires strong attention to detail, flexibility, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

What do you mean by coating?

In the context of a coating inspector, coating refers to a protective or decorative layer applied to surfaces such as metal, concrete, or other materials. The inspector ensures the coating is applied correctly, adheres properly, and meets quality standards, often using tools like gauges and adhering to industry certifications. Proper coating application helps prevent corrosion, wear, and environmental damage.

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

To thrive as a Coating Inspector, you need strong knowledge of surface preparation, coating application processes, industry standards, and relevant inspection techniques, often supported by certifications like NACE or SSPC. Familiarity with inspection tools such as dry film thickness gauges, holiday detectors, and documentation software is crucial. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure coating systems are applied safely and effectively, protecting assets from corrosion and ensuring compliance with project specifications.

What is a synonym for coating?

In the context of a coating inspector, a synonym for coating is finish or surface treatment. These terms refer to the protective or decorative layer applied to materials, and understanding different terminology can help in inspections and documentation. Knowledge of related terms like paint, varnish, or sealant can also be useful in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Coating Inspector jobs in California? The most popular types of Coating Inspector jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Coating Inspector jobs in California? For Coating Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Coating Inspector jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Coating Inspector jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Coating Inspector jobs? Cities in California with the most Coating Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Coating Inspector jobs in CA? For Coating Inspector jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Coating Inspector job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,232 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

$90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance
  • Competitive salary
  • Employee discounts
  • Opportunity for advancement

Desired Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with, and a working knowledge of related standards from the American National Standard Institute (ANSI), NACE International (NACE), Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC), NSF International (NSF), American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), etc.
  • Familiarity with but not limited to standard test practices for coating work surface preparation techniques, coating inspection instrumentation, measurements of film thickness, protection of surfaces, use and application of fillers, adhesion testing, spark testing, etc.
  • Working knowledge of the Cal/OSHA Construction Safety Orders and applicable confined space regulations.
  • Applicable SSPC & NACE Level 2 or 3 certifications with a minimum of 10 years experience. NACE Level 2 must be under the supervision of a NACE Level 3 supervisor who will review and sign off on reports.
  • Ability to interpret plans, specifications, special provisions and other contract documents.
  • Ability to independently identify potential problems and propose solutions.
  • Previous experience on inspection of coating work related but not limited to penstocks, valves, storage tanks, waterlines and bridges.
  • Knowledge of cathodic protection systems
Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Under the oversight and direction of Department Section Head, Construction Inspectors, Resident Engineers, Area Supervisors or Consultant Construction Managers on projects requiring a coating inspector.
  • Preparation of inspection reports.
  • Perform inspections of coating works and the related practices such as but not limited to surface preparation, film thickness, protection of surfaces, application of fillers, adhesion testing, spark testing, instrument verification, etc.; perform oversight and enforcement of compliance with the contract documents for the coating of various Department waterworks, bridge, and flood control projects/facilities being constructed/restored by contractors under contract with the Department.
  • Respond to complaints and inquiries from the public, elected officials, other agencies, Project Management Division III staff and other affected Department Divisions.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with Department staff.