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Inspection Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Inspection Application Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site +1

$110K - $150K/yr

The Inspection Application Engineer is an organized and highly motivated team player with strong initiative and communication skills and possesses the drive to deliver quality results on time in a ...

Receiving Inspector

Corona, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

... inspection data for each specific job package.  Work with internal customers (Karman quality inspectors/engineers) in maintaining / verifying conformance prior to delivery. The receiving inspector ...

Visual Inspector III

Torrance, CA · On-site

$37.50 - $60.58/hr

... inspection, traditional and advanced NDE/NDT, failure analysis, rope access, materials engineering, field engineering, reliability engineering, drones, robotics, V-Deck and condition-based monitoring ...

AOI Engineer

Santa Ana, CA

$75K - $97K/yr

Inspection Programming & Process Engineering Plan, create, and maintain SPI/AOI/X-Ray programs and ensure process documentation is completed and updated in time for production Develop and provide SPI ...

AOI Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Inspection Programming & Process Engineering • Plan, create, and maintain SPI/AOI/X-Ray programs and ensure process documentation is completed and updated in time for production • Develop and ...

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Inspection Engineer information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$100.4K

$135.7K

How much do inspection engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for inspection engineer in California is $100,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Inspection Engineers?

Inspection Engineers are professionals responsible for examining, testing, and evaluating materials, equipment, structures, or systems to ensure they meet specific standards and regulations. They work in various industries such as manufacturing, construction, oil and gas, and transportation. Their duties often include conducting inspections, preparing detailed reports, and recommending corrective actions to maintain safety, quality, and compliance. Inspection Engineers play a crucial role in preventing accidents, ensuring product reliability, and supporting regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Inspection Engineer vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectInspection EngineerQuality Control Inspector
CertificationsOften requires engineering degrees and certifications like ASNT or APIMay require certifications like ASQ CQI or specific industry training
Work EnvironmentDesigns inspection plans, analyzes data, and oversees inspection processesPerforms on-site inspections, checks products or materials for defects
Industry UsageUsed in engineering, manufacturing, oil & gas, constructionCommon in manufacturing, construction, and production facilities

Inspection Engineers typically have engineering backgrounds and focus on planning and analyzing inspections, while Quality Control Inspectors perform hands-on inspections to ensure product quality. Both roles are essential in quality assurance but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges Inspection Engineers face when working on-site, and how can they address them?

Inspection Engineers often encounter challenges such as working in hazardous environments, dealing with incomplete or outdated documentation, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders on-site. To address these challenges, it’s important to strictly adhere to safety protocols, proactively communicate with site personnel, and stay organized by keeping thorough records of inspections. Building strong relationships with other engineers, supervisors, and quality assurance teams can also help facilitate smoother inspections and quicker problem resolution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Inspection Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Inspection Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, quality control, and industry standards, often supported by a relevant engineering degree or certification. Familiarity with inspection tools, non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques, and software for reporting and data analysis is typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate assessments, regulatory compliance, and safe operation of equipment or structures.
What are popular job titles related to Inspection Engineer jobs in California? For Inspection Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Inspection Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 8% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,420 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Inspection Engineer

Prima Strategic Group Inc

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description


The Inspection Engineer/Inspector's responsibilities and activities are:
  • Checking that Technical and Quality documents, necessary to perform the Inspection e g Specifications, Procedures, Drawings, Data Sheets are complete and that are in the last revision;
  • Checking proper calibration of all apparatus/instrumentation used to test the material;
  • Performing inspections according to the notifications and approved Inspection Test Plan;
  • Witnessing that tests i e Visual and dimensional, pressure, PMI, NDT, etc) are performed in compliance with latest approved technical data sheet, test procedures, supplier internal standard operating procedures and quality standards;
  • Reviewing material certificates and test reports;
  • Managing the non conformance events according to the received instructions;
  • Immediately notify the client/IC when technical problems have resulted in the issuance of a non conformity report;
  • Issuing a detailed Inspection Report in the due time and a signed Inspection Release Note ( when all required tests and inspections are satisfactorily completed and all technical documentation has been reviewed and found to be in compliance with the applicable requirements: Taking photos during Inspection activity;
  • Be medically fit and with a valid eye test exam;
  • Having your own PPE;
  • Follow all HSE requirements of client and the supplier workshops;
  • Immediately report any unsafe conditions which he/she feels may place he/her or others in danger while at a worksite;
  • Perform inspection duties in compliance with the Prima QHSE System;

Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
  • Certified Welding Inspector
  • Certification in NDE and Coating is desired
  • Minimum 5 Years inspection experience associated with fabrication or manufacturing in oil and gas industry

Competencies
  • Teamwork and Leadership: Team Contributor
  • Building and Developing Professional/Technical Knowledge: Gain advanced knowledge of professional/technical area
  • Change, Innovation and Responsiveness: Support change
  • Customer/Client Service: Provide a positive client experience
  • Communication and Influence: Communicate clearly
  • Planning, Organising and Pro activity: React to short term priorities and plan activities
  • Business Development: Support BD Activity
  • Results Focus: Set your own goals

Benefits
  • US$ 40-45 per hour plus mileage@IRS
  • Enjoy 1099 Status