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Ship Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Typically requires a High School diploma and three years shipboard experience in Quality Assurance, or the overall equivalent. * NAVSEA Basic Paint Inspector (NBPI), or related / equivalent ...

Quality Inspector IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

$66K - $105K/yr

Typically requires a High School diploma and three years shipboard experience in Quality Assurance, or the overall equivalent. * NAVSEA Basic Paint Inspector (NBPI), or related / equivalent ...

Showing results 21-40

Ship Inspector information

See California salary details

$12

$26

$51

How much do ship inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship inspector in California is $27.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ship inspector?

A Ship Inspector is responsible for examining ships to ensure they meet safety, environmental, and regulatory standards. They inspect various aspects, including structural integrity, machinery, safety equipment, and compliance with international and local maritime laws. Ship Inspectors often work for classification societies, government agencies, or private firms, conducting routine and specialized inspections. Their role helps prevent accidents, protect the environment, and ensure vessels are seaworthy.

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

To thrive as a Ship Inspector, you need a solid understanding of maritime regulations, ship construction, and safety standards, typically supported by relevant engineering or maritime qualifications. Familiarity with inspection tools, digital reporting systems, and accreditation from organizations like ABS, DNV, or Lloyd’s Register is often required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are key soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure thorough inspections, accurate reporting, and compliance with safety and legal requirements in a critical, safety-focused industry.

What are some of the typical challenges a ship inspector faces during inspections?

Ship Inspectors often work in diverse and sometimes challenging environments, conducting thorough assessments in tight spaces, at heights, or in adverse weather conditions. They must navigate varying ship designs and technologies, ensuring compliance with ever-evolving safety and regulatory standards. Communication with ship crews, owners, and regulatory agencies is a regular part of the job, requiring both technical knowledge and interpersonal skills. Adapting to tight schedules while maintaining meticulous attention to detail is crucial, as any oversight could impact vessel safety and operational efficiency.

How much does a ship inspector make?

A ship inspector typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior inspectors or those working in specialized environments can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $90,000. The role often requires knowledge of safety standards, inspection tools, and regulatory compliance.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Ship Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,159 per year, or $27 per hour.

(C) Marine Gas Turbine Inspector (MGTI)

THE MCHENRY MANAGEMENT GROUP, LLC

San Diego, CA • On-site

$90K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description

Salary: $90,000 to $95,000


Background check, US Citizenship, CAC and a secret clearance are requirements of this position. Contingent on contract award. Travel is 35%


RATT events are training and assessment evolutions, partnering with the crews to improve technical knowledge, organic repair capability, operational understanding, performance during assessments, and ultimately, enhanced readiness. RATT provides proficient subject matter experts to conduct Sailor centric deck-plate training, material review, program auditing, and naval readiness support to enhance overall proficiency and material readiness through recommendations to the ship and staff to enhance CNSP ship's readiness to conduct sustained operations at sea in support of the nation's strategic objectives. 

Requirements

Marine Gas Turbine Inspector should satisfy the following skill, knowledge, and experience require

Extensive Navy technical management experience on multiple ships

Extensive experience as shipboard Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW) on multiple Gas Turbine ships

Extensive experience (multiple tours) as Navy Marine Gas Turbine Inspector with Navy surface ship maintenance processes.

Over twenty years of supervisory level watchstanding experience on warships or military auxiliaries with gas turbine main propulsion as Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Officer, Chief Engineer, or equivalent responsible for overall propulsion plant operations and associated control and auxiliary systems.

Over seven years of experience conducting marine gas turbine inspections on surface warships or military auxiliaries with qualifications and certification as or equivalent to a Navy Marine Gas Turbine Inspector

Direct operational and maintenance experience, within the last five (5) years, with gas turbine main propulsion, gas turbine generators, associated control systems, and associated auxiliaries currently in use by the Navy 

Must have a minimum of four (4) Shipboard Tours.


Physical Job Requirements

Must be able to work in a Shipboard industrial environment 

Able to climb ladders 


Education/Certification Requirements

Must have previously held a Marine Gas Turbine Inspector (MGTI) certification.