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Ship Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Visual inspections on lines, pumps, manifolds, shore tanks, rail cars, tank trucks, barges and ships. * Complete custody transfer surveys of commodities transferred to and from rail cars, tank trucks ...

NDT inspector level II will perform VT, UT, MT and PT inspections on surface ship and submarine structure. Required to perform miscellaneous tasks, as assigned by his or her supervisor. Required ...

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Ship Inspector information

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$12

$26

$51

How much do ship inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 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 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?

The average salary for a ship inspector ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior inspectors or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, and the job often requires knowledge of safety standards and inspection tools.

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 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.

Lead Diesel Engine Inspector (DEI) with Security Clearance

Sayres Defense

San Diego, CA • On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Sayres is seeking an experienced Lead Diesel Engine Inspector (DEI) in San Diego, CA with a SECRET clearance, verifiable in DISS. Position Summary The Lead Diesel Engine Inspector provides technical leadership for diesel propulsion system inspections and readiness assessments across Navy surface ships. Responsibilities * Conduct diesel propulsion inspections. * Evaluate maintenance effectiveness and equipment reliability. * Review casualty reports and maintenance trends. * Develop recommendations to improve readiness. * Support engineering assessments and technical reviews. Qualifications * Minimum 15 years supervisory experience. * Minimum two tours as a Navy Diesel Engine Inspector. * Extensive EOOW experience aboard diesel-powered ships. * Direct diesel propulsion operational and maintenance experience within the past five years. * Experience equivalent to Navy Diesel Engine Inspector certification. * 25+ years highly desirable. Occasional travel may be required. Support is primarily based in San Diego, CA, with occasional travel to Navy fleet concentration areas including Everett, WA; Pearl Harbor, HI; Sasebo, Japan; Yokosuka, Japan; and Singapore, as well as other customer locations as required. Salary Range: $90,000–$140,000, commensurate with experience. Compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and market considerations. About Sayres Defense Sayres Defense supports critical U.S. Navy shipbuilding and maritime programs, delivering acquisition, engineering, logistics, and waterfront expertise that strengthens fleet readiness and lifecycle sustainment. The position description is only meant to be a representative summary of the major responsibilities and accountabilities performed by the incumbents of this position. The incumbents may be requested to perform position-related tasks other than those stated in this description. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, disability or veteran status. At Sayres, our employees enjoy an atmosphere conducive to realizing their potential through personal and professional development while simultaneously exceeding customers' expectations. We offer a broad spectrum of technical, engineering and administrative services including acquisition, financial and program management; fleet synthetic training; logistics; ship construction engineering; systems engineering and integration; wargaming; test and evaluation; security, counterintelligence and policy analysis. Sayres is headquartered in Washington, DC with offices throughout the United States and has a presence abroad. #CJ