1

Parts Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Inspector

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conduct visual inspections of parts and assemblies for fissures, porosity, delaminations, contour issues, and other physical characteristics. * Determine sample sizes for lots, pull random samples ...

Source Inspector

Lodi, CA · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Parts will be inspected according to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. The inspector will be required to report inspection accept/reject ...

Parts will be inspected to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. * The inspector will be required to report inspection accept / reject information ...

Parts will be inspected to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. * The inspector will be required to report inspection accept / reject information ...

Parts will be inspected to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. * The inspector will be required to report inspection accept / reject information ...

Source Inspector

Lodi, CA

$20 - $27.25/hr

Parts will be inspected according to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. The inspector will be required to report inspection accept/reject ...

Source Inspector

Lodi, CA · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Parts will be inspected according to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. The inspector will be required to report inspection accept/reject ...

Source Inspector

Lodi, CA

$20 - $27.25/hr

Parts will be inspected according to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. The inspector will be required to report inspection accept/reject ...

Parts will be inspected to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. * The inspector will be required to report inspection accept / reject information ...

Makes inspection layout and first article inspection on machined parts, forgings, stampings, and sheet metal forms for use as reference guides to determine conformance to proper dimensions.

Mechanical Inspector

Torrance, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Parts will be inspected to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. * The inspector will be required to report inspection accept / reject information ...

Parts will be inspected to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. * The inspector will be required to report inspection accept / reject information ...

Parts will be inspected to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. * The inspector will be required to report inspection accept / reject information ...

Quality Inspector

Carson, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Perform incoming inspections on raw materials and manufactured parts to verify conformance to specifications and quality requirements. * Read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T ...

Parts will be inspected to engineering drawings, customer purchase order(s), industry standards, and specifications. * The inspector will be required to report inspection accept / reject information ...

Quality Inspector

Torrance, CA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Responsible for forwarding this information to final inspection with detail or assembly parts manufactured to Customer requirements. Also, will perform reverse engineering. MATERIALS, TOOLS, AND ...

Receiving Inspector

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$20 - $25.75/hr

Verification of parts against engineering drawings, specifications and purchase order requirements * Review of accompanying manufacturing and quality documentation, including Certificates of ...

Receiving Inspector

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$20 - $25.75/hr

Verification of parts against engineering drawings, specifications and purchase order requirements * Review of accompanying manufacturing and quality documentation, including Certificates of ...

Receiving Inspector

Huntington Beach, CA

$20 - $25.75/hr

Verification of parts against engineering drawings, specifications and purchase order requirements * Review of accompanying manufacturing and quality documentation, including Certificates of ...

Showing results 21-40

Parts Inspector information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$34

How much do parts inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for parts inspector in California is $20.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by a parts inspector, and how can they be successfully managed?

Parts Inspectors often encounter challenges such as identifying subtle defects, managing high volumes of components, and keeping up with changing quality standards. Successfully managing these challenges requires keen attention to detail, familiarity with inspection tools and measurement devices, and consistent communication with production teams. Staying organized and maintaining thorough documentation also help ensure quality standards are upheld and issues are quickly addressed. Regular training and collaboration with quality assurance engineers can further improve inspection accuracy and efficiency.

What is a parts inspector?

Parts inspectors are professionals responsible for examining manufactured components to ensure they meet quality and safety standards. They use measuring tools, visual checks, and sometimes specialized equipment to detect defects or deviations from specifications. Parts inspectors play a crucial role in manufacturing, helping to maintain product quality and prevent faulty parts from reaching customers. Their work helps companies comply with industry regulations and reduce costly recalls or repairs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a parts inspector?

To thrive as a Parts Inspector, you need a solid understanding of quality control standards, blueprint reading, and measurement techniques, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with inspection tools such as calipers, micrometers, and computer-aided inspection systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for identifying defects and working with production teams. These skills and qualities ensure that manufactured parts meet strict quality standards, reducing errors and maintaining customer satisfaction.

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

AspectParts InspectorQuality Control Inspector
CertificationsOften requires inspection certifications, such as ASQ certificationsMay also require similar certifications, with additional quality management training
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in manufacturing, assembly lines, or aerospace industriesWorks across manufacturing, production, and quality assurance settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in automotive, aerospace, and electronics industriesUsed broadly in manufacturing, aerospace, and industrial sectors
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for inspection roles focusing on partsCompared for quality assurance roles involving inspection

Parts Inspectors focus on examining individual parts for defects and compliance, often working directly on the production line. Quality Control Inspectors have a broader role, overseeing overall quality standards and procedures. While both roles require inspection certifications and work in manufacturing environments, Parts Inspectors typically concentrate on specific components, whereas Quality Control Inspectors ensure the entire product meets quality standards.

What are popular job titles related to Parts Inspector jobs in California?

For Parts Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Parts Inspector jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Parts Inspector jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Parts Inspector jobs?

Cities in California with the most Parts Inspector job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Parts Inspector jobs in CA?

For Parts Inspector jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Parts Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,971 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Precision Inspector (Rocket Valves) - 2nd Shift

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$35 - $44/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
PRECISION INSPECTOR (ROCKET VALVES) - 2ND SHIFT
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Complete surface plate work/inspection of machined aerospace parts
  • Inspect supplied product according to the applicable drawing and or work order specifications to verify that it conforms to all design requirements
  • Perform complex inspections following standardized methods
  • Complete in-process inspection, visual and/or dimensional inspection of precision machined parts
  • Interact proactively with production to improve products and reduce defects
  • Communicate and help resolve quality related issues
  • Document non-conformances in accordance with prescribed procedures and processes
  • Support quality management system policies and procedure documentation, assess compliance to company and industry standards, initiate and lead continual improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives
  • Work in a cross functional environment utilizing PC-DMIS programming skills as applied to DCC CMMs
  • Create, maintain and verify CMM programs used for the measurements of manufactured and supplied parts
  • Perform documentation review and verification of certifications, specifications, and conformance to design and specification requirements
  • Read GD&T requirements as applied to the engineering drawing

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 3+ years of quality inspection experience

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Understanding of ISO 9001/AS9100 quality management systems
  • Solid computer skills in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel
  • Ability to review drawings and identify improper callouts/datum structures, according to ASME Y14.5
  • Thorough understanding of all layout inspection tools (surface plate, height gage, indicators, calipers, micrometers, gage blocks, thread gages, etc.)
  • DCC (direct computer controlled) CMM with PC-DMIS software experience
  • 1+ years of experience with blueprint reading, shop math or GD&T
  • Experience working in a machine shop

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be willing to work 2nd shift
    • Monday-Friday 3:30PM-2:00AM
  • Must be able to work additional overtime and/or weekend as needed
  • Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods - 10 hours min
  • Must be willing to work in a cleanroom environment, which requires PPE, such as: bunny suit, hair net, beard net, etc.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Precision Inspector/Level 1: $26.00 - $32.00/hour
Precision Inspector/Level 2: $30.00 - $38.00/hour
Precision Inspector/Level 3: $35.00 - $44.00/hour
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


SpaceX logo

About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US