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Ship Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

IMIA, LLC

NDT Ultrasonic Inspector LII

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

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 ...

IMIA, LLC

NDT Ultrasonic Inspector LII

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

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 ...

IMIA, LLC

NDT Ultrasonic Inspector LII

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

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 ...

IMIA, LLC

NDT Ultrasonic Inspector LII

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

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

See California salary details

$12

$26

$51

How much do ship inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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 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:
Ship Inspector jobs near you
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.

Quality Assurance Inspector (QAI) - SDCA

Austal USA

Encinitas, CA • On-site

$38.08 - $54.27/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Austal USA rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

286th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

REPORTS TO: Director Home Port Operations - San Diego
SUPERVISES: Quality Control Inspector - SDCA (as assigned, project-based)
AUTHORITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Supports Project Management with the coordination and completion of quality inspections.
  • Directs aspects of quality management associated with specific area of assigned responsibility.
  • Supports resolution of quality issues that may arise between installation team members, sub-contractors, and shipyard and government personnel.
  • Provides input into the development of test index plans, QA workbooks, and process control procedures.
  • Implements and maintains vessel specific inspection plans and requirements per applicable contract requirements or as assigned.
  • Monitors task performed by sub-contractors or Quality Department employees assigned to west coast projects for short-term assignment.
  • Monitors craft work to ensure workmanship is in accordance with regulatory, NAVSEA standard Items and shipbuilding standards.
  • Conducts quality assurance checks, inspections, and final product inspections as assigned.
  • Performs in-process quality assessments, including compliance audits prior to customer inspection utilizing visual or other inspection methods.
  • Generates, maintains and audits documentation related to inspections performed, e.g. call outs, sign-off sheets, test procedures, objective quality evidence (OQE).
  • Complies with Austal's employee handbook general guidelines, company procedures and policies.
  • Complies with Quality Management direction and reporting requirements as directed; performs auditing of the Quality Management System in accordance with ISO 9001: 2015 or similar.
  • This position description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Incumbent will perform other tasks as assigned.
  • Offsite travel could potentially be in excess of 35%. Training to support this position may also include travel.

QUALIFICATIONS / KNOWLEDGE / EXPERIENCE:
  • Completion of trade school or apprentice program in electrical or fabrication preferred.
  • Five (5) or more years of experience working in a related trade with three (3) being in shipbuilding/ship repair.
  • Five (5) years' experience in QC/QA inspections. For Austal employees, four (4) years' experience maintaining current Level II Visual Testing (VT) accepted.
  • Must be NDT Level II VT qualified or capable of achieving qualification within 90 days.
  • Must be NDT Level II Penetrant Testing (PT) qualified or capable of achieving qualification within 120 days.
  • Familiar with NAVSEA standard items.
  • Strong leadership and organization skills.
  • Computer skills utilizing Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Possess the willingness and ability to increase understanding of the applicable standards and requirements for the job.
  • Ability to read and comprehend engineering drawings and data.
  • Proven ability to work autonomously and set tasks for self.

TOOLS:
  • Inspection devices / tools
  • Familiar with use and function of basic power and hand tools.

DIRECTION EXERCISED: Discretionary authority to assign work to subordinates (as assigned, project-based) and/or to influence the work of Production and Project Management personnel
LIAISES WITH: Quality, Program team, Project team, Production team, Safety personnel, client, suppliers, subcontractors, and class and flag authorities.
ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES:
  • The ability to obtain and maintain a DBIDS and or any other clearance or access that may be required if deemed necessary in the scope of position responsibilities
  • Candidates must meet the following employment eligibility guidelines to be considered for employment with Austal USA:
  • 18 years of age or older at time of application
  • Able to provide proof of US Person Status
  • No felony convictions of Theft/Deception or Violent crimes within seven years from disposition date
  • No felony convictions of Drug crimes within three years from disposition date
  • Willing to submit to a drug screen
  • Willing to submit to a background check

The ability to obtain and maintain a DBIDS and or any other clearance or access that may be required if deemed necessary in the scope of position responsibilities
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Must be able to tour all vessels and work sites.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit.
Specific physical requirements include the following:
  • Must have the ability to bend, squat, stoop, crawl, and kneel.
  • Perform prolonged standing. Ability to turn head from side to side and about the vertical axis.
  • Ability to turn body at the waist from side to side and about the vertical axis.
  • Lift/push/pull 50lbs to 75lbs on an occasional basis.
  • Lift/push/pull up to 20lbs on a frequent basis. Must have the ability to climb in a safe manner (climbing as a minimum includes stairs, scaffolding, ladders, and ramps).
  • Ability to work at heights above 12' while working from ladders, scaffolding and/or man lifts.
  • Able to work at a variety of levels (ex. waist, eye, overhead).
  • Demonstrate the ability to safely and appropriately use required tools and equipment.
  • Demonstrate good balance while working on uneven surfaces and maneuvering obstacles.
  • Possess sufficient handgrip and coordination to carry and operate tools and equipment.
  • Ability to utilize personal protective equipment (hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toes shoes, goggles, respirator, safety harness, safety line, flotation gear, etc.) safely per OSHA standards.
  • Ability to withstand cold and hot temperatures. Ability to enter 18" x 36" openings and work in confined spaces for prolonged periods of time.
  • Able to respond to verbal and audible sounds/commands.
  • Able to utilize adequate visual skills. Ability to fully extend the arm while reaching overhead, reaching out, reaching to the side and reaching down.
  • Ability to perceive attributes of an object/material such as size, shape, temperature and texture by means of receptors in the hands and fingers.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters whole performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
SAFETY
Must comply with company, federal, state, and local safety and environmental rules and regulations while performing daily job tasks.
COMPENSATION
Pay rate depends on relevant experience: $38.08 - $54.27 per hour
Equal Employment Commitment
Any qualified individual with a disability who is having difficulty in completing an application because of incompatible technology or other disability-related application issues may contact us at the following phone number for assistance: 251-445-1932.
Austal's commitment to equal employment opportunity applies at all levels of employment, in all job titles, including the executive level, and to all employment actions, including but not limited to decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, training, and promotion.

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