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Coating Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Conformal Coating Technician

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Inspect coated assemblies for proper coverage and workmanship. * Troubleshoot coating and equipment issues and coordinate corrective actions with Engineering and Quality. * Maintain accurate process ...

Conformal Coating Technician

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Inspect coated assemblies for proper coverage and workmanship. * Troubleshoot coating and equipment issues and coordinate corrective actions with Engineering and Quality. * Maintain accurate process ...

Be Seen First

... Inspect completed boards using UV blacklights, microscopes, and other inspection tools to identify coating defects ● Perform touch-ups and rework to correct coating skips, bubbles, voids, or thin ...

Optical Coating Tech I

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$18.34 - $31.36/hr

Inspect optics for cleanliness and contamination removal prior to coating. * Prepare and operate vacuum coating chambers, including cleaning, foiling, sandblasting, and installing system components.

Conformal Coating Technician

San Clemente, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Inspect coated boards for coverage, thickness, and defects. * Mask and demask components as required before and after coating. * Perform touch-ups and rework on coated assemblies. * Operate and ...

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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 Aug 21, 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 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 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 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 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.

How much do coating inspectors make in the US?

Coating inspectors in the US typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, with the median around $55,000. Salaries vary based on experience, certifications, location, and industry, and inspectors often need knowledge of coating standards and inspection tools.

Is coating inspection a stressful job?

Coating inspection can be stressful due to the need for precision, attention to detail, and adherence to safety standards in often challenging environments. Inspectors must identify defects and ensure compliance, which can involve tight deadlines and working in conditions that may be physically demanding or require working at heights. Proper training and experience help manage stress levels 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,232 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Coating Inspector

ENGICON CM

Alhambra, CA • On-site

$90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 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.