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Entry Level Inspection Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Many of our leaders started in entry-level roles such as retail, customer service, warehouse ... Schedule inspection appointments * Work outdoors and stay active People who succeed in this role ...

Field Inspector

Lexington, SC ยท On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

Many of our leaders started in entry-level roles such as retail, customer service, warehouse ... Schedule inspection appointments * Work outdoors and stay active People who succeed in this role ...

Field Inspector

Columbia, SC ยท On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

Many of our leaders started in entry-level roles such as retail, customer service, warehouse ... Schedule inspection appointments * Work outdoors and stay active People who succeed in this role ...

Many of our leaders started in entry-level roles such as retail, customer service, warehouse ... Schedule inspection appointments * Work outdoors and stay active People who succeed in this role ...

Field Inspector

Lugoff, SC ยท On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

Many of our leaders started in entry-level roles such as retail, customer service, warehouse ... Schedule inspection appointments * Work outdoors and stay active People who succeed in this role ...

Many of our leaders started in entry-level roles such as retail, customer service, warehouse ... Schedule inspection appointments * Work outdoors and stay active People who succeed in this role ...

Field Inspector

Blythewood, SC ยท On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

Many of our leaders started in entry-level roles such as retail, customer service, warehouse ... Schedule inspection appointments * Work outdoors and stay active People who succeed in this role ...

Field Inspector

Sumter, SC ยท On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

Many of our leaders started in entry-level roles such as retail, customer service, warehouse ... Schedule inspection appointments * Work outdoors and stay active People who succeed in this role ...

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Entry Level Inspection information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$13

$24

$73

How much do entry level inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level inspection in Columbia, SC is $24.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level inspection job?

Entry-level inspection jobs are positions that involve examining products, materials, or equipment to ensure they meet specific standards and requirements. These roles typically require minimal prior experience and training is often provided on the job. Common duties include checking for defects, recording results, and reporting any issues found during inspections. Entry-level inspectors may work in manufacturing, construction, or quality assurance environments. These positions are ideal for individuals looking to start a career in quality control or related fields.

What are common challenges faced by entry level inspectors, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level inspectors often encounter challenges such as understanding complex quality standards, adapting to fast-paced production environments, and effectively communicating findings with other team members. Overcoming these challenges involves thorough training, asking questions when unclear about inspection criteria, and building strong relationships with supervisors and experienced colleagues. Staying organized, documenting inspections carefully, and being proactive in seeking feedback can also help new inspectors grow their confidence and effectiveness in the role.

How to become an entry level inspection with no experience?

To become an entry-level inspector, focus on developing basic skills such as attention to detail and understanding safety standards. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and obtaining relevant certifications or a high school diploma can improve your chances. Prior experience is not always required, but familiarity with tools or inspection procedures can be beneficial.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level inspector?

To thrive as an Entry Level Inspector, you need strong attention to detail, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with inspection tools such as calipers, micrometers, and basic computer systems for documentation is commonly required. Good communication, reliability, and the ability to follow procedures make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring product quality, safety, and compliance with standards in manufacturing or production environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Inspection vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectEntry Level InspectionQuality Control Inspector
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic understanding of inspection proceduresHigh school diploma; may require certifications like ASQ Certified Quality Inspector
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, warehouses, or production linesManufacturing facilities, laboratories, or production environments
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and other industriesQuality assurance departments across similar industries

Entry Level Inspection and Quality Control Inspector roles often overlap in manufacturing settings, but the Quality Control Inspector typically requires more specialized certifications and performs more detailed quality assessments. Entry Level Inspection roles are suitable for those starting in inspection tasks, while Quality Control Inspectors focus on ensuring products meet quality standards through thorough evaluations.

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Entry Level Inspection jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Entry Level Inspection job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Inspection job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,432 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Junior Inspector - Construction Services (CEI)

Trilon Group

Columbia, SC โ€ข On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Junior Inspector - Construction Services (CEI)
Department: Construction/CEI
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Columbia, SC
Compensation: $20.00 - $22.00 / hour
Description
DRMP is growing our Construction Engineering Inspection (CEI) Division into South Carolina, and we're looking for near Entry-Level Inspectors to join our team. If you're a Junior Inspector looking for the next step in your career or an Inspector looking for a new opportunity - we'd love to discuss a career with DRMP!
As a Junior Inspector, you will be responsible for performing basic mathematical calculations and follow technical instructions as delegated for construction inspection and testing. Duties are to assist higher-level inspectors performing these field services, while documenting construction progress via daily work reports.
Your Primary Responsibilities Will Include:
  • Daily documentation of contractor's work efforts.
  • Earthwork Construction forms completion.
  • On-site material sampling and testing.
  • Assisting with preparation of the project closeout documentation.
  • Measure distances to verify accuracy of dimensions of construction activity/layout.
  • Observes work in progress to ensure that proper construction procedures are followed and materials used conform to specifications.
  • Obtains and/or prepares material samples for laboratory testing.
  • Examines workmanship of finished installations for conformance with contract specifications.
  • Collecting field records for quantities of materials received or used during specified periods.
  • Maintains daily log of construction and inspection activities.

What You'll Need:
  • Must be High School graduate or equivalent
  • Must possess a valid driver's license
  • Must obtain Work Zone Traffic Control (Advanced or Supervisor) within the first six months of employment
  • Must possess SCDOT Earthwork & Base Course Technician qualification o obtain within first 90 days months of employment
  • Must possess SCDOT Asphalt Roadway Technician or obtain within first 90 days of employment
  • Must possess SCDOT Concrete Technician Level 1&2 or obtain within first 90 days of employment
  • Must possess ACI Field Testing Technician Grade 1 or obtain within first 90 days of employment
  • Must possess SCDHEC/Clemson CEPSCI (Sediment Control Inspector) qualification within first six months of employment
  • Ability to work in team environment.
  • Position requires minimum of 40 hours a week with possibility of overtime (Hourly).
  • Possess SCDOT or valid qualification from another state for ACI Field Testing Technician Grade 1 or obtain within the first 90 days of employment.

KSA's:
  • Receives general instructions regarding assignments, and expected to assist Inspectors, Senior Inspectors, and/or Project Manager with completion of specific tasks and assists in all phases of the construction project. Responsible for preparing supporting documentation for progress and final estimates throughout the project duration.

DRMP Offers:
  • Excellent compensation package
  • Outstanding holiday and paid-time-off programs
  • 401(k) Plan and Match
  • Career Path Development Program (Management & Technical Career Tracks)
  • Mentorship Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Parental Leave
  • Competitive health and dental insurance premiums
  • Variety of voluntary benefit options
  • Short-Term Disability/Long-Term Disability
  • Company-furnished life insurance
  • Employee Assistant Program (EAP)
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • and More

DRMP is a Drug and Alcohol Free workplace, an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and E-Verify employer.
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