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Drug Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Drug Safety Associate

San Diego, CA · On-site

$77K - $90K/yr

The Drug Safety Associate provides operational and documentation support for the company's clinical ... Support audit and inspection readiness by assembling documentation packages and evidence of ...

Ability to pass pre-employment drug test Other Criteria Candidates are required to pass a pre ... Inspector is expected to have own ladder and basic inspection tools; company may provide equipment ...

Ability to pass pre-employment drug test Other Criteria Candidates are required to pass a pre ... Inspector is expected to have own ladder and basic inspection tools; company may provide equipment ...

ICC Inspector

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$66.96/hr

Overview E2 is hiring an ICC Inspector. The successful candidate should be thoroughly knowledgeable ... Drug screens will include, but not be limited to, Amphetamines, Cocaine Metabolites, Marijuana ...

Chief Inspector

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

The Chief Inspector position will be based in Hawthorne, CA. The incumbent of this role is ... Must satisfy FAA and company drug and alcohol testing requirements * Must have authorization to ...

Chief Inspector

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The Chief Inspector position will be based in Hawthorne, CA. The incumbent of this role is ... Must satisfy FAA and company drug and alcohol testing requirements * Must have authorization to ...

New

The Chief Inspector position will be based in Hawthorne, CA. The incumbent of this role is ... Must satisfy FAA and company drug and alcohol testing requirements * Must have authorization to ...

Chief Inspector

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

The Chief Inspector position will be based in Hawthorne, CA. The incumbent of this role is ... Must satisfy FAA and company drug and alcohol testing requirements * Must have authorization to ...

Ability to pass pre-employment drug test OTHER CRITERIA Candidates are required to pass a pre ... Inspector is expected to have own ladder and basic inspection tools; company may provide equipment ...

Construction Inspector

San Diego, CA · On-site

$135K - $175K/yr

UNICO is seeking a seasoned Construction Inspector in the San Diego area who has experience dealing ... Ability to pass a pre employment drug screening * Clean Drivers license and DMV record required

UNICO is seeking a seasoned Construction Inspector in the San Diego area who has experience dealing ... Ability to pass a pre employment drug screening * Clean Drivers license and DMV record required

Quality Inspector

Commerce, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Quality Inspector Location: Commerce / Vernon , CA facility Department: Quality Reports To: Quality ... Employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drug Inspector information

See California salary details

$24.2K

$54.2K

$97.7K

How much do drug inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for drug 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 a drug inspector?

Drug Inspectors are government-appointed officials responsible for ensuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of drugs and pharmaceuticals in the market. They conduct inspections of drug manufacturing and distribution facilities, enforce regulations, collect samples for analysis, and investigate complaints related to drugs. Their primary role is to ensure that medicines available to the public meet legal standards and are safe for consumption. Drug Inspectors also help in curbing the circulation of counterfeit or substandard medicines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drug inspector?

To thrive as a Drug Inspector, you need a strong background in pharmacy, chemistry, or pharmacology, usually supported by a relevant degree and government certification. Familiarity with drug regulatory frameworks, laboratory testing equipment, and documentation systems is essential. Attention to detail, integrity, and effective communication are critical soft skills for ensuring compliance and interacting with pharmaceutical stakeholders. These competencies are vital to uphold public health standards and ensure the safety and quality of pharmaceutical products.

What are some typical challenges a drug inspector faces when ensuring compliance in pharmaceutical manufacturing units?

Drug Inspectors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex regulatory requirements, managing resistance from manufacturers during inspections, and keeping up to date with evolving pharmaceutical standards. They must also balance thorough inspections with efficient time management, as they are responsible for visiting multiple facilities. Effective communication and a strong grasp of current regulations are essential for resolving compliance issues while maintaining professional relationships with manufacturers.

What is the difference between Drug Inspector vs Pharmacist?

AspectDrug InspectorPharmacist
Required CredentialsDegree in Pharmacy or Pharmaceutical Sciences, relevant certificationDiploma or Degree in Pharmacy, registration with pharmacy council
Work EnvironmentGovernment regulatory agencies, inspection sites, labsHospitals, pharmacies, clinics, retail stores
Employer & IndustryGovernment health departments, drug control authoritiesPrivate pharmacies, hospitals, healthcare facilities

While both Drug Inspectors and Pharmacists work within the pharmaceutical industry, Drug Inspectors primarily focus on regulatory compliance, drug quality control, and inspections for government agencies. Pharmacists, on the other hand, are involved in dispensing medications, patient counseling, and healthcare services. Both roles require pharmacy qualifications, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

How much do drug inspectors make in the US?

Drug inspectors in the US typically earn an annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and level of responsibility. Salaries may increase with additional certifications, advanced education, or supervisory roles.

Which degree is best for a drug inspector?

A drug inspector typically requires a bachelor's degree in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, or a related field. Relevant knowledge of drug regulations, laboratory skills, and sometimes certification in drug inspection or quality control are also important for the role.

What are popular job titles related to Drug Inspector jobs in California?

For Drug Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Drug Inspector jobs?

Cities in California with the most Drug Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Drug Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,220 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Drug Product Inspection Technician

PCI Pharma Services

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


PCI Pharma Services rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

440th of 543 rated manufacturers


Job description

Life changing therapies. Global impact. Bridge to thousands of biopharma companies and their patients.


We are PCI.


Our investment is in People who make an impact, drive progress and create a better tomorrow. Our strategy includes building teams across our global network to pioneer and shape the future of PCI.

This position is responsible for performing a wide variety of routine, entry level Drug Product Finishing tasks. The Drug Product Finishing Technician must also complete training and pass qualification testing for Visual Inspection and Packaging. This position is also responsible for the accurate handling of products following SOP's and working under cGMP regulations.
Schedule: M-F 6:00AM - 2:30PM

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The basic duties and responsibilities include the following, but other duties may be assigned.

  • Perform Packaging and Labeling of Vials or Syringes.

  • Visual Inspection, Area Line Clearance, and Equipment Sign off.

  • Material Verification.

  • Product Offload.

  • Vialand syringe Counting qualified.

  • Finished Product Labeling.

  • Transfer and proper documentation of Product storage and removal.

  • Follow all proper gowning procedures.

  • Responsible for Good Documentation Practices.

  • Perform reconciliation of serialized forms.

  • May support in the development, implementation and operation of alternate technologies, including semi-automated and automated equipment and high voltage leak detection.

  • May perform other tasks as assigned.

  • Regular and reliable attendance on a full time basis [or in accordance with posted schedule].

  • Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal and external business associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices.

  • Embodies PCI Pharma Services cultural values and aligns daily actions with department goals and

Qualifications:

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required for the stated position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required:

  • High School Diploma required.

  • Minimum zero to two (0-2) years relevant experience in a laboratory or manufacturing environment.

  • Ability to pass visual acuity exam and color vision requirements.

  • Ability to pass Drug Product Finishing qualification exams according to SOP guidelines.

  • Detail oriented with strong written and verbal communication skills.

  • Ability to work independently, within prescribed guidelines, or as a team member.

  • High School Diploma required.


Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties the employee is:

  • constantly required to sit, and to reach to use computers and other office equipment

  • constantly stand for extended periods of time, up to four (4) hours/time.

  • frequently required to lift up to 40 pounds

  • constantly required to view objects at close and distant ranges with hand and eye coordination

  • frequently required to communicate with others

Note: For the purpose of this summary, occasionally is used to represent up to 1/3 of the time given to the work day, frequently represents 1/3 to 2/3 of the time and constantly represents 2/3 or more of the time.

Visual Demands:

This position includes essential tasks that experience and applicable standards show require 20/20 vision (natural or corrected) in order to perform the position in question. This position also requires the ability to see and differentiate among colors.

*The hiring rate for this position is $17.75 - $20.00 plus eligibility for an annual performance bonus. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors, including but not limited to specific and relevant experience, education, credentials, geography, and subject matter expertise. PCI offers full-time employees a competitive benefits package that includes paid time off, health insurance coverage (including dental and vision), a flexible spending account, and a 401(k) plan.

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Join us and be part of building the bridge between life changing therapies and patients. Let's talk future

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement:
PCI Pharma Services is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, or any other protected status.

At PCI, Equity and Inclusion are at the core of our company's purpose: Together, delivering life-changing therapies. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace by holding ourselves accountable to the highest standards of understanding, fairness, respect, and equal opportunity - at every level. We envision a PCI community where everyone can belong and grow, and we strive to bring this vision to reality by continuously and intentionally assessing our people practices, policies and programs, marketing approach, and workplace culture.

IF YOU ARE A RESIDENT OF CALIFORNIA OR APPLYING FOR A JOB IN CALIFORNIA PLEASE READ:For Los Angeles applicants, we abide by the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring. Learn more about the policy here: https://bca.lacity.gov/fair-chance

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