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Material Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Gardena, CA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Transport material samples with associated identifying documentation to the laboratory for further ... Performs testing, observation, and inspection as directed in accordance with training and the ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Colton, CA

Transport material samples with associated identifying documentation to the laboratory for further ... American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * American Society for ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Carson, CA

Transport material samples with associated identifying documentation to the laboratory for further ... American Welding Society (AWS) Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI) * American Society for ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Carson, CA

Transport material samples with associated identifying documentation to the laboratory for further ... American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) * American Society for ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Colton, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $35.50/hr

Transport material samples with associated identifying documentation to the laboratory for further ... Performs testing, observation, and inspection as directed in accordance with training and the ...

Integrity Consulting

Be Seen First

Quality Assurance Inspector

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Record data clearly, maintain raw material inspection database, communicate with suppliers and procurement, and develop raw material specifications. REQUIRED: · High school diploma or equivalent. · ...

REXEL

Quality Inspector

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$26.36 - $32.95/hr

Responsible for restoration and preservation of specific materials, as well as some assembly of components and modifications of finished goods. What You'll Do: * Perform mechanical and visual ...

4LEAF

Public Works Inspector

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Coordinate schedules for materials inspection testing and surveying. Provide accurate measured quantities and review pay estimates submitted by the contractor. Maintain separate set of "red-lined ...

Veridiam

Quality Inspector (OS)

Oceanside, CA · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY Use standard measuring equipment to perform inspections of fabricated parts; perform various dimensional and visual inspections of materials and products; and report results of ...

4LEAF

Public Works Inspector

Pleasanton, CA

$75 - $85/hr

Coordinate schedules for materials inspection testing and surveying. * Provide accurate measured quantities and review pay estimates submitted by the contractor. * Maintain separate set of "red-lined ...

4LEAF, Inc

Public Works Inspector

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Coordinate schedules for materials inspection testing and surveying. * Provide accurate measured quantities and review pay estimates submitted by the contractor. * Maintain separate set of "red-lined ...

4LEAF, Inc

Public Works Inspector

Pleasanton, CA

$75 - $85/hr

Coordinate schedules for materials inspection testing and surveying. * Provide accurate measured quantities and review pay estimates submitted by the contractor. * Maintain separate set of "red-lined ...

4Leaf, Inc

Public Works Inspector

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Coordinate schedules for materials inspection testing and surveying. * Provide accurate measured quantities and review pay estimates submitted by the contractor. * Maintain separate set of "red-lined ...

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Material Inspector information

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$22

$34

How much do material inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for material inspector in California is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Material Inspectors face when working with suppliers or vendors?

Material Inspectors often encounter challenges such as inconsistent documentation, varying quality standards across suppliers, and communication barriers when clarifying specifications or discrepancies. To address these issues, inspectors must be detail-oriented, proactive in following up on non-conformities, and skilled in both written and verbal communication. Building strong relationships with suppliers and maintaining thorough records can help ensure materials consistently meet the required standards and facilitate smoother collaboration.

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

To thrive as a Material Inspector, you need a solid understanding of material properties, quality assurance standards, and inspection procedures, often backed by a relevant technical diploma or certification. Familiarity with inspection tools, non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, and quality management systems like ISO 9001 is typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help ensure accurate reporting and collaboration with engineering teams. These competencies are essential for maintaining product quality, ensuring regulatory compliance, and preventing costly defects in manufacturing processes.

What does a Material Inspector do?

A Material Inspector is responsible for examining and testing materials used in manufacturing or construction to ensure they meet required standards and specifications. They inspect raw materials, components, or finished products for quality, durability, and compliance with regulations. Material Inspectors use specialized tools and testing procedures to detect defects or inconsistencies. Their work helps prevent faulty materials from being used, ensuring safety and reliability in the final product.

What is the difference between Material Inspector vs Quality Control Technician?

AspectMaterial InspectorQuality Control Technician
CertificationsOften requires certifications like NDT or industry-specific quality standardsTypically holds certifications such as ISO auditor or quality assurance credentials
Work EnvironmentInspects materials on-site or in manufacturing facilitiesPerforms testing and inspections in labs or production lines
Industry UsageCommon in construction, manufacturing, and shipping industriesUsed across manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive sectors

Material Inspectors focus on examining raw materials and components for quality and compliance, often working directly in the field. Quality Control Technicians perform testing and inspections to ensure products meet quality standards, usually in controlled environments. While both roles aim to ensure product quality, Material Inspectors primarily verify incoming or in-process materials, whereas Quality Control Technicians focus on finished products and processes.

What are popular job titles related to Material Inspector jobs in California? For Material Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Material Inspector jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Material Inspector jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Material Inspector jobs in CA? For Material Inspector jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Material Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Material Inspector job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,894 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Materials Special Inspector

Materials Special Inspector

TERRACON

Gardena, CA • On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 73 rated business consultants

Job description


Perform field and/or laboratory testing, observation, and inspection of construction materials (e.g. soils, aggregates, concrete, asphalt, and steel). Communicate with project manager, engineering technicians, client representative, contractor's representative and others as applicable regarding the construction site, project requirements, and testing, observation, and inspection requirements and results. Transport material samples with associated identifying documentation to the laboratory for further testing and analysis. Tabulate, prepare, and submit data and observation in the form of written and digital reports as work is performed for daily transmittal to the Terracon Project Manager. Maintain and clean equipment, vehicles and work areas. May assist with scheduling and dispatch of Technicians to project sites. Adhere to strict safety standards.
Responsibilities
  • Performs testing, observation, and inspection as directed in accordance with training and the specified procedures.
  • Provides clear documentation of findings and results.
  • Performs basic analysis of data to verify accuracy before communication and submittal to the Project Manager.
  • Communicates information to Project Manager and other personnel as directed by the PM.
  • Has experience and proficiency in multiple areas of field testing and inspection and or laboratory testing
  • Trains lower level technicians
  • May direct and supervise activities of other engineering technicians in the laboratory or on larger field projects.
  • May interact with client and other site personnel on behalf of the Project Manager when directed
  • May assist Project Manager in development of scope for testing and inspection services
  • Maintains equipment operation and calibration.
  • Performs advanced fieldwork and assists with project management.
  • Plan, schedule and dispatch Technicians to project sites based on technician skill set, certifications, location, project, and priority.
  • Coordinate pre-dispatch activities with Project, Department, and/or Office Managers.
  • Track projects including contractor site data and status into Construction Materials and Laboratory Management System (CMELMS).
  • Communicate with clients to provide up to date information in regard to the company's ability to meet expected project timelines, client needs for projects and project status.
  • Follow safety rules and practices and other safety requirements for all projects. Performs pre-task planning prior to executing work. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.
    Qualifications
    • High school diploma or equivalent.
    • Minimum 5-10 years of relevant experience or the equivalent in training and related experience.
    • Experience with laptop computer use and Microsoft Word and Excel
    • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.

    Preferred Qualifications: Certifications in one or more of the following areas:
    • NICET Level III certification in Construction Materials Testing in two or more of the following categories or NICET Level III in at least one of the following categories: Asphalt, Concrete, Soils.
    • NICET Level III certification in Geotechnical in two or more of the following categories: Construction, Laboratory, Exploration, Generalist
    • ICC certification in two or more of the following categories: Reinforced Concrete, Spray-applied Fireproofing, Structural Masonry, Prestressed/Post-Tensioned Concrete, Structural Steel - Bolting, Structural Steel - Welding.
    • American Welding Society (AWS) Senior Certified Welding Inspector (SCWI)
    • American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level III certification in one or more of the following areas: Visual Testing (VT), Magnetic Particle Testing (MT), Dye Penetrant Testing (PT), Radiographic Testing (RT), Ultrasonic Testing (UT).
    • Other national, regional, state, and local Materials related certifications requiring experience and written examination will also be considered if deemed appropriate by the Terracon Department Manager.

    Required Qualifications:
    • ACI certification in one or more of the following areas:
    • Concrete Field Testing Technician Grade I
    • Concrete Strength Testing Technician
    • Certified in radiation safety and Nuclear Density Gauge operation.

    Steel
    • American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI), or
    • Structural Steel and/or nondestructive testing services: ASNT Level II

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