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Lead Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RTCA

Lead Quality Inspector

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

The Lead Quality Inspector serves as the technical leader of the inspection team, ensuring the consistent execution of inspection activities while supporting production, engineering, and quality ...

Machina Labs

Quality Inspector

Chatsworth, CA · On-site

$34 - $40/hr

Machina Labs is seeking a Quality Inspector to support and lead inspection activities for high-precision, flight-critical components. This role operates as a senior individual contributor on the ...

Machina Labs

Quality Inspector

Chatsworth, CA

$34 - $40/hr

Machina Labs is seeking a Quality Inspector to support and lead inspection activities for high-precision, flight-critical components. This role operates as a senior individual contributor on the ...

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All JobsLead Inspector JobsLead Inspector Jobs in California

Lead Inspector information

See California salary details

$13

$30

$59

How much do lead inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead inspector in California is $30.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $39.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead inspector?

Lead Inspectors are professionals responsible for identifying the presence of lead-based paint and other lead hazards in homes, schools, and other buildings. They conduct visual assessments, collect samples of dust, paint, and soil, and use specialized equipment to detect lead contamination. Their work is crucial for ensuring that environments meet safety standards and protect occupants, especially children, from the harmful effects of lead exposure. Lead Inspectors often work with property owners, contractors, and government agencies to recommend and oversee remediation efforts.

What does a lead inspector do?

A lead inspector examines homes or buildings for the presence of lead paint or other material with a lead base. In this career, you may work in residential homes, public facilities, or commercial buildings. Most facilities that serve children, such as schools, need to have their buildings checked for lead content. You walk through the building, inspecting every wall and surface for the possibility of lead and test the paint to determine the severity of the hazard. After each inspection, you document your findings for your client or company.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Inspector, you need strong attention to detail, knowledge of industry regulations, and relevant experience or certifications in inspection practices. Familiarity with inspection tools, quality management systems, and reporting software is typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate teams and resolve issues efficiently. These skills are crucial to ensure compliance, maintain safety standards, and drive continuous improvement within inspection processes.

What are some common challenges faced by a lead inspector, and how are they typically addressed?

Lead Inspectors often encounter challenges such as managing tight project deadlines, coordinating with multiple teams, and ensuring compliance with evolving regulations. To address these, they rely on strong organizational skills, clear communication, and up-to-date knowledge of industry standards. Building strong relationships with team members and stakeholders also helps streamline inspection processes and resolve issues efficiently, ensuring projects remain on track and compliant.

What is the difference between Lead Inspector vs Quality Control Inspector?

AspectLead InspectorQuality Control Inspector
CertificationsOften requires certifications like ASQ CQI, API, or specific industry standardsMay require basic certifications, but less frequently
Work EnvironmentSupervises inspection teams, coordinates inspections, and ensures compliancePerforms inspections, checks products or processes, and reports issues
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, construction, aerospace, and oil & gas industriesCommon across manufacturing, automotive, and production sectors

The main difference between a Lead Inspector and a Quality Control Inspector is that the Lead Inspector oversees inspection teams and manages inspection processes, while the Quality Control Inspector primarily conducts inspections and reports on product quality. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in ensuring compliance and quality standards within various industries.

How much do lead inspectors make?

Lead inspectors in New York City typically earn an average salary of around $70,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry sector. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of inspections, employer size, and additional skills such as report writing or specialized knowledge.
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Lead Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,402 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Environmental Site Surveillance Technician

North Tower Environmental, Inc.

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$34 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Environmental Site Surveillance Technician

San Francsico, CA, US

Salary Range:$34.00 To $38.00 Hourly

North Tower Environmental, Inc. (NTE) has an opportunity for an experienced environmental, industrial hygiene or health & safety technician with a minimum of 2-years of experience and at least one of the following certifications: Cal-OSHA Certified Site Surveillance Technician, California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Lead Inspector-Assessor or CDPH Lead Project Monitor.

In this position, the successful candidate will conduct building related environmental assessments, assist with project design and monitor contractor activities during remediation activities. The position will focus on asbestos, lead, exposure air monitoring, and water intrusion projects. A strong understanding of building systems is required. Candidates should be energetic, interested in building systems and construction health & safety. Familiarity with computer (Mac & Windows), Microsoft Office and basic drafting programs is required. Technicians will spend the majority of their time at projects sites throughout the Northern California area. Technicians will also prepare reports and other project documents related to field operations; assist with occasional equipment maintenance & calibration and general office support.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Cal-OSHA Certified Site Surveillance Technician, California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Lead Inspector-Assessor or CDPH Lead Project Monitor Certifications
  • Competent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong organizational abilities and attention to detail
  • Computer literate
  • Willing to travel, work evenings and weekends as projects require
  • Be in good physical health and able to wear respiratory and other personal protective equipment
  • Ability to climb ladders, navigate crawl spaces, lift/carry equipment (generally up to 50 lbs), stand for long periods of time.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Desirable Qualifications:

  • Recent Graduate with BA/BS in environmental sciences, health & safety, industrial hygiene or building related fields.
  • Basic drafting skills
  • Knowledge of building systems & construction techniques
  • Ability to read & understand construction drawings (architectural & MEP)
  • 40-hour HAZWOPER certification, AHERA Building Inspector and Contractor/Supervisor certifications

Benefits:

NTE provides a comprehensive benefits package to regular full-time and qualifying part-time employees that includes:

  • Eligibility to participate in the company Employee Profit Sharing Program for qualifying individuals.
  • Group Medical Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Program
  • Paid Time Off
  • Discretionary Bonus Program
  • Professional development funds for training and professional license fees

Company Description

North Tower Environmental, Inc. is an Environmental and Industrial Hygiene Consulting Firm that offers environmental services for both private and public sector clients at sites located throughout California. North Tower Environmental is seeking an entry level site surveillance / industrial hygiene technician for a full-time position.