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Inspection Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Certified Employment Group

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Engineering Assistant (lead) - NOT REMOTE

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$32 - $39/hr

Engineering Assistant** to support Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Inspection teams in a fast-paced technical manufacturing environment. This role will serve as a key liaison between the ...

Sanmina

QA Engineer

San Jose, CA

$80K - $90K/yr

... Inspection Engineering Drawing and Specification Review Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement Data Collection, Analysis, and Quality Reporting ISO 9001 and Quality Management Systems ...

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All JobsInspection Engineering JobsInspection Engineering Jobs in California

Inspection Engineering information

See California salary details

$35K

$62K

$86.4K

How much do inspection engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for inspection engineering in California is $61,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $69,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is inspection engineering?

Inspection engineering is a specialized field focused on evaluating and ensuring the safety, reliability, and compliance of equipment, structures, or systems through systematic inspections and assessments. Inspection engineers use various techniques—such as visual checks, non-destructive testing, and data analysis—to identify defects, wear, or non-compliance with standards. Their work is essential in industries like manufacturing, oil and gas, construction, and transportation, where safety and quality are critical. They often also recommend repairs, maintenance, or improvements based on their findings.

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, a solid background in engineering principles, materials science, and quality assurance—often supported by a relevant engineering degree and certifications like API or NDT—is essential. Familiarity with inspection tools, non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, and documentation systems like computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help Inspection Engineers excel in identifying and reporting issues. These competencies ensure the integrity, safety, and compliance of equipment and structures, ultimately minimizing risks and operational downtime.

What are some common challenges faced by inspection engineers and how can they be addressed?

Inspection engineers often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly changing regulatory standards, working in physically demanding environments, and accurately documenting inspection results under tight deadlines. To address these, staying updated through regular training, using advanced inspection technologies, and maintaining clear communication with other engineering and safety teams can be highly beneficial. Building strong relationships with colleagues and prioritizing safety protocols also help ensure thorough and compliant inspections.

What is the difference between Inspection Engineering vs Quality Assurance Engineering?

AspectInspection EngineeringQuality Assurance Engineering
CertificationsASNT, API, NDT certificationsASQ CQE, Six Sigma, ISO certifications
Work EnvironmentField inspections, plant sites, manufacturing facilitiesOffice-based, process development, audits
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, oil & gas, aerospaceManufacturing, software, healthcare

Inspection Engineering focuses on the direct examination and testing of products or materials to ensure compliance with standards. Quality Assurance Engineering involves developing and implementing processes to prevent defects and improve quality across production. While both roles aim for quality, Inspection Engineering is more hands-on and inspection-focused, whereas Quality Assurance Engineering emphasizes process improvement and system audits.

What does an inspection engineer do?

An inspection engineer evaluates materials, components, and systems to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. They perform inspections using tools like non-destructive testing equipment, review technical documentation, and ensure compliance with industry regulations, often working in manufacturing, construction, or energy sectors. Certification and attention to detail are important in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Inspection Engineering jobs in California?

For Inspection Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Inspection Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Inspection Engineering jobs in California are:

Inspection Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Inspection Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,965 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Engineering Assistant (lead) - NOT REMOTE

Certified Employment Group

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$32 - $39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 8 days ago

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Job description

Engineering Assistant (Lead) – Santa Rosa, CA
$32–$39/hr DOE | Day Shift | Full-Time | Temp-to-Hire
We are seeking an experienced **Engineering Assistant** to support Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Inspection teams in a fast-paced technical manufacturing environment.
This role will serve as a key liaison between the Engineering Manager and Inspection team, helping coordinate daily priorities, resolve issues, maintain workflow, and ensure quality and accuracy. The ideal candidate is a strong lead, trainer, communicator, and problem solver who can serve as a trusted resource and “voice of reason” for the team.
Responsibilities
* Serve as the day-to-day liaison between Engineering Management and Inspectors.
* Coordinate daily priorities, workflow, and inspection activities.
* Provide lead-level guidance and support to Inspection team members.
* Train and onboard new employees; document training and qualifications.
* Assist with technical troubleshooting, quality issues, and process improvements.
* Read and interpret drawings, specifications, work instructions, and procedures.
* Create and maintain SOPs, work instructions, training materials, and technical documentation.
* Review inspection and manufacturing data to identify trends, discrepancies, and opportunities for improvement.
* Partner with Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing to resolve issues and improve processes.
* Promote teamwork, accountability, accuracy, and a solutions-focused work environment.
Qualifications
* 3+ years of manufacturing, inspection, engineering support, quality, or related technical experience.
* Previous lead, trainer, senior technician, or technical resource experience preferred.
* Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
* Ability to train others and clearly communicate technical information.
* Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Excel.
* Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
* Experience with inspection equipment, metrology, SPC, MES, or quality systems is a plus.
* Experience in precision, optical, medical device, aerospace, semiconductor, or other technical manufacturing environments preferred.
**Great opportunity for someone ready to take on a lead-level technical role while remaining hands-on and closely connected to the team.**

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About Certified Employment Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Certified Employment Group started in San Francisco in 1963. Our cornerstone mission was, and remains, to provide ethical, caring service to each of our clients and employees. These values mean using technology to create efficiencies for our clients, expand our service offerings and enhance the level of service we can provide. As Northern California businesses have prospered, Certified has responded by opening branches to serve high-growth areas. We have expanded our services to include on-site management for major accounts, developing a web based interface and opening specialized divisions in Legal, Renewable Energy and Accounting. Certified remains independently owned, responsive, flexible and wholly committed to our original values. We believe this is the reason for our success. Industry rankings continually place Certified in the top ten percent based on sales!

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Emeryville, CA, US

Year founded

1963

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