ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Defensible Space Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDefensible Space Inspector JobsDefensible Space Inspector Jobs in California

Defensible Space Inspector information

See California salary details

$24.2K

$54.2K

$97.7K

How much do defensible space inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for defensible space inspector in California is $54,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $62,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the 5 foot rule in California?

The 5 foot rule in California refers to maintaining a minimum distance of five feet between structures and vegetation to create defensible space, which helps reduce wildfire risk. As a Defensible Space Inspector, you assess properties to ensure this clearance is maintained around homes and other structures, often following local fire safety regulations and guidelines. Proper clearance is a key part of wildfire mitigation efforts and may involve inspecting vegetation, debris, and other combustible materials within this zone.

What kind of inspectors make the most money?

In general, inspectors with specialized skills, certifications, or experience tend to earn higher salaries. For example, building, electrical, or fire inspectors often make more than general inspectors, especially when working in high-risk or complex environments. Salary levels can also increase with advanced training, supervisory roles, or working in regions with higher living costs.

Are fire inspector jobs in demand?

Fire inspector jobs, including defensible space inspectors, are generally in demand due to increasing wildfire risks and the need for fire prevention and safety assessments. Employment opportunities are often available in local government agencies, requiring knowledge of fire codes, safety standards, and sometimes certification. The job outlook is expected to grow as communities prioritize wildfire mitigation and fire safety measures.

What qualifications do I need to become a fire inspector?

To become a fire inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in firefighting or emergency services. Many jurisdictions require certification such as the Fire Inspector I or II from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and some positions may require a valid driver's license and knowledge of fire codes and inspection procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Defensible Space Inspector position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defensible Space Inspector, you need a solid understanding of fire prevention principles, vegetation management, hazard assessment, and relevant safety codes or regulations, often supported by specialized training or certification. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, inspection reporting tools, and mobile data collection systems is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to educate property owners make candidates stand out. These skills are vital for accurately assessing fire risks, documenting compliance, and fostering community safety through effective collaboration and outreach.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Defensible Space Inspector?

As a Defensible Space Inspector, your typical day involves traveling to residential and commercial properties to assess landscaping, structures, and other elements for compliance with fire safety regulations. You will document findings, create detailed inspection reports, and sometimes use digital tools to map areas and track compliance. Inspectors frequently interact with property owners to educate them about defensible space requirements and recommend necessary improvements. This role is highly field-based and often requires independent work, but you may also collaborate closely with fire prevention teams, local agencies, and community members to enhance overall fire safety.

What is a Defensible Space Inspector job?

A Defensible Space Inspector evaluates properties to ensure they meet fire safety regulations by maintaining defensible space around structures. They inspect vegetation, combustible materials, and other hazards that could contribute to wildfire spread. Inspectors educate property owners on compliance requirements and recommend necessary changes. Their work helps reduce wildfire risks and improve community safety.

What are the most commonly searched types of Defensible Space Inspector jobs in California? The most popular types of Defensible Space Inspector jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Defensible Space Inspector jobs in California? For Defensible Space Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defensible Space Inspector jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Defensible Space Inspector jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Defensible Space Inspector jobs? Cities in California with the most Defensible Space Inspector job openings:
Defensible Space Inspector jobs near you

Environmental Safety & Health Representative

Perma-Fix Environmental Services, Inc.

Oakland, CA • On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description:


Exempt Position


Developing or implementing project specific Accident Prevention Plans, Health and Safety (HS) Plans, Industrial Safety (IS) procedures, and Industrial Hygiene (IH) procedures; developing and implementing job hazards analyses (JHA) or activity hazards analyses (AHA); ensuring work is executed in accordance with safety procedures and practices; operating and maintaining monitoring instrumentation in a manner that confirms operations is being performed safely and data generated is defensible; responsible for conducting daily safety topics and ensuring project staff is qualified and trained to perform the assigned scope of work; conducting site safety inspections and assessments in accordance with HS Plans; ensuring operators of power equipment and industrial powered trucks are qualified and properly trained; ensuring employees are empowered to stop work when unsafe conditions exist; collecting and managing all HS records generated during project execution.

This position requires traveling to support short- and long-term projects located throughout the United States with minimum notification. Candidates must be very comfortable with public speaking, presenting instructional or HS information, and capable of preparing technical documents including all HS related documents.

Requirements:


Education

Associate degree (or equivalent) in safety engineering, construction, industrial hygiene or an equivalent technical field, or bachelor’s degree in any field. Experience will be considered as an exception to a degree.


Qualifications

Must have OSHA 30-hour construction or general industry certification and 40-hour HAZWOPER training. Must hold current certification in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) from the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association. Must have general working knowledge of implementing ES&H Programs, Accident Prevention Plans, work-specific HS Plans (HSP), Hazard Communication Programs, Hazardous Materials Information System (HMIS), and AHA/JHA programs. Must have experience in conducting incident/accident investigation, determining causal factors, and developing corrective and preventative actions.


Preferred Qualifications

Should have a minimum of 40 hours of formal environmental training in erosion control, waste management, or other environmental discipline, or pre-approved equivalent job experience. Should have competent knowledge in excavations, asbestos abatement, fall protection, hoisting & rigging, confined space, load handling equipment, demolition, and scaffolding.


Field Experience

Should have at least 5 years of documented field experience in the areas of occupational safety or industrial hygiene for remediation/demolition of radiological and hazardous waste contaminated sites; should have experience in deploying, operating and maintaining IH instrumentation and making safety decisions based on documented information; should have experience in training a mobilized workforce within short period of time; should have experience in providing rigorous, safety oversight of field activities and giving sound direction for safety related matters in a timely manner. Should have case management experience for first aid or injuries as they occur. Experience with DOE, DOD and USACE projects is highly preferred.