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Materials Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Carson, CA

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 ...

TERRACON

Materials Special Inspector

Colton, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $35.50/hr

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 ...

OmniSource

Material Inspector

Johnson City, TN · On-site

Grade and inspect incoming materials * Direct customers throughout the facility * Assist customers as needed * Sort and move materials as needed * Comply with all safety guidelines * All other duties ...

Shearer's Foods

Raw Materials Inspector

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$17.85 - $18.85/hr

Your skills, experience, and perspective are valuable--and we want to empower you to make your mark here with us.  Raw Materials (Potatoes) Inspector - Night Shift 6:45pm-7am 2,2,3 schedule Pay ...

Cosmopolitan Staffing Services

$18 - $20/hr

We are seeking an Incoming Material Inspector for our client in Parsippany, NJ ... This position is responsible for inspecting incoming materials and packaging components ...

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Ventura Foods

Material Inspector

Chambersburg, PA

... materials * Learn the cooler and warehouse rack locations for spice room ingredients to gather needed amounts of ingredients to meet production schedule * Assist processors as needed; may be required ...

State of Iowa

Materials Fabrication Inspector 1

Ames, IA · On-site

$50K - $74K/yr

Are you interested in sampling inspection and testing of materials that are used in construction and maintenance projects. The Iowa Department of Transportation's District 2 Materials Office is ...

Ventura Foods

Material Inspector

Chambersburg, PA · On-site

... materials * Learn the cooler and warehouse rack locations for spice room ingredients to gather needed amounts of ingredients to meet production schedule * Assist processors as needed; may be required ...

Ventura Foods

Material Inspector

Chambersburg, PA · On-site

... materials * Learn the cooler and warehouse rack locations for spice room ingredients to gather needed amounts of ingredients to meet production schedule * Assist processors as needed; may be required ...

Ventura Foods

Material Inspector

Chambersburg, PA

... materials * Learn the cooler and warehouse rack locations for spice room ingredients to gather needed amounts of ingredients to meet production schedule * Assist processors as needed; may be required ...

Ventura Foods

Material Inspector

Chambersburg, PA

... materials * Learn the cooler and warehouse rack locations for spice room ingredients to gather needed amounts of ingredients to meet production schedule * Assist processors as needed; may be required ...

Next Level Staffing

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Material Inspector-Scrap Yard

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Inspect incoming materials, take deductions for non-metal and non-conforming materials. Interacts with general public outside. No data entry, may also do some general clean duties. Working in an ...

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Materials Inspector information

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$14

$22

$34

How much do materials inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials inspector in the United States is $22.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Materials Inspector, you need a solid understanding of material properties, quality control processes, and relevant industry standards, often supported by a degree or certification in materials science or engineering. Familiarity with inspection tools, non-destructive testing equipment, and quality management systems like ISO 9001 is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for accurately assessing materials and reporting findings. These skills ensure that materials meet safety, compliance, and performance standards, which is vital for product reliability and operational efficiency.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Materials inspectors typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive, specialized medical, legal, or senior management roles. High-paying jobs in the US often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, or leadership positions. For most inspection roles, salaries are significantly lower, though top executives overseeing large projects can reach or exceed this level.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying roles for materials inspectors are rare, with most earning significantly less than $500,000 annually. Typically, such salaries are found in executive, specialized consulting, or ownership positions rather than standard inspection roles. Advanced certifications, extensive experience, or managerial responsibilities can lead to higher compensation, but reaching $500,000 is uncommon for this job title.

What are some common challenges Materials Inspectors face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Materials Inspectors often encounter challenges such as tight project deadlines, varying industry standards, and the need to adapt to different types of materials and testing procedures. Maintaining accuracy while working efficiently is crucial, as even small errors can have significant consequences for safety and compliance. To address these challenges, inspectors typically stay up to date with current quality standards, utilize checklists and digital tools to streamline inspections, and communicate closely with engineering and production teams to resolve discrepancies quickly.

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

CriteriaMaterials InspectorQuality Control Technician
CertificationsOften requires certifications like NDT, ASTM standardsTypically requires certifications in quality management or specific testing methods
Work EnvironmentInspects raw materials, components, and finished products in manufacturing or construction sitesPerforms testing and inspections to ensure product quality in manufacturing settings
Industry UsageCommon in construction, manufacturing, and industrial sectorsUsed across manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and related industries

Materials Inspectors focus on examining raw materials and components for defects, ensuring compliance with standards. Quality Control Technicians perform testing and inspections to verify product quality during production. While both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, their specific responsibilities differ, with Materials Inspectors emphasizing incoming materials and Quality Control Technicians focusing on ongoing product quality.

What type of inspector gets paid the most?

In the field of materials inspection, senior or specialized inspectors such as quality control managers or lead inspectors tend to earn higher salaries due to their experience and expertise. Certifications like ASQ Certified Quality Inspector or Lead Auditor can also increase earning potential. Salary varies based on industry, location, and level of responsibility.

What does a material inspector do?

A materials inspector examines and tests raw materials, components, and finished products to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications. They often use tools like calipers, gauges, and testing equipment, and may require certifications such as ASQ or ISO standards. The role involves inspecting materials throughout the manufacturing process to prevent defects and ensure safety and compliance.

What are Materials Inspectors?

Materials Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining and testing materials used in manufacturing, construction, or production processes to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications. They assess materials such as metals, plastics, concrete, or textiles for defects, compliance, and suitability for use. Their work involves performing visual inspections, using testing instruments, documenting results, and reporting any issues. By ensuring the quality of materials, they help prevent defects in final products and contribute to overall safety and reliability.
More about Materials Inspector jobs
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Who are the top companies hiring for Materials Inspector jobs? The top employers for Materials Inspector jobs are:
What states have the most Materials Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Materials Inspector jobs include:
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What are popular job titles related to Materials Inspector jobs? For Materials Inspector jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Materials Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Materials Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 19% Contract, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,503 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Materials Special Inspector

Materials Special Inspector

TERRACON

Carson, CA

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 58 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.

Preferred Qualifications:  Certifications in two or more of the following areas:

  • NICET Level II certification in Construction Materials Testing in one or more of the following categories: Asphalt, Concrete, Soils.
  • NICET Level II certification in Geotechnical in one 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) Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
  • American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Level II certification in more than one 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:

Materials

  • 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

All

  • Successful completion of related internal safety certifications.
  • 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
  • May train lower level technicians
  • May lead the activities of other engineering technicians in the laboratory or on larger field projects.
  • Maintains equipment and calibration.
  • Follows 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.

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