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Special Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NV5

Special Inspector

Ventura, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

We are currently seeking to hire two Special Inspectors in the Ventura area with Caltrans and DSA project experience is highly desired! Join our team of inspectors in Ventura as we continue to grow ...

APEX COMPLIANCE INC

Special Inspector

Rohnert Park, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Career Advancement Opportunities Job Summary We are seeking a Special Inspector to join our team! This will be a Single Site Job in Rhonert Park, CA. Applicant must be capable of ensuring ...

BSK Associates

Special Inspector

Livermore, CA

$35.21 - $48.50/hr

Join Our Team as a Special Inspector ! BSK Associates, a trusted name in engineering with over 60 years of excellence, is looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated Special Inspector to join our Team. As ...

BSK Associates

Special Inspector

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$32.62 - $44.94/hr

Join Our Team as a Special Inspector ! BSK Associates, a trusted name in engineering with over 60 years of excellence, is looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated Special Inspector to join our Team. As ...

NV5

Special Inspector

Ventura, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

We are currently seeking to hire two Special Inspectors in the Ventura area with Caltrans and DSA project experience is highly desired! Join our team of inspectors in Ventura as we continue to grow ...

GeoTek Operations Limited

Special Inspector

Riverside, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Incorporated in 1997, GeoTek is a full-service consulting engineering firm specializing in geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, special inspections, and environmental consulting.

APEX COMPLIANCE INC

Special Inspector

Rohnert Park, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Career Advancement Opportunities Job Summary We are seeking a Special Inspector to join our team! This will be a Single Site Job in Rhonert Park, CA. Applicant must be capable of ensuring ...

GeoTek Operations Limited

Special Inspector

Corona, CA

$30 - $40/hr

Incorporated in 1997, GeoTek is a full-service consulting engineering firm specializing in geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, special inspections, and environmental consulting.

GeoTek Operations Limited

Special Inspector

Corona, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Incorporated in 1997, GeoTek is a full-service consulting engineering firm specializing in geotechnical engineering, construction materials testing, special inspections, and environmental consulting.

APEX COMPLIANCE INC

Special Inspector

Madera, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Career Advancement Opportunities Job Summary We are seeking a Special Inspector to join our team! This is single site work. Applicant must be capable of ensuring construction site adheres to building ...

APEX COMPLIANCE INC

Special Inspector

Madera, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Career Advancement Opportunities Job Summary We are seeking a Special Inspector to join our team! This is single site work. Applicant must be capable of ensuring construction site adheres to building ...

APEX COMPLIANCE INC

Special Inspector

Rohnert Park, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Career Advancement Opportunities Job Summary We are seeking a Special Inspector to join our team! This will be a Single Site Job in Rhonert Park, CA. Applicant must be capable of ensuring ...

NV5

Special Inspector

Ventura, CA

$30 - $45/hr

We are currently seeking to hire two Special Inspectors in the Ventura area with Caltrans and DSA project experience is highly desired! Join our team of inspectors in Ventura as we continue to grow ...

APEX COMPLIANCE INC

Special Inspector

Madera, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Career Advancement Opportunities Job Summary We are seeking a Special Inspector to join our team! This is single site work. Applicant must be capable of ensuring construction site adheres to building ...

GeoTek Operations Limited

Special Inspector

Corona, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Make an impact with GeoTek! We're hiring a Special Inspector for our Corona, CA office. Apply today! SUMMARY: Performs a variety of testing, project specific observations, and site assessment duties.

NV5

Special Inspector

San Diego, CA · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Requirement for Special Inspector and/or Field Technician vary depending on the type of work to be performed. * Familiar with California Building Code and ASTM, AASHTO, and ACI standards for testing ...

NV5

Special Inspector

Nevada City, CA · On-site

$30 - $60/hr

CWI/ICC Special Inspectors II/III and Field Technicians conduct field observations, QA/QC, and testing services during the construction phases of a project, as well as materials testing, to ensure ...

NV5

Special Inspector

Campo, CA · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Requirement for Special Inspector and/or Field Technician vary depending on the type of work to be performed. * Familiar with California Building Code and ASTM, AASHTO, and ACI standards for testing ...

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Special Inspector information

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How much do special inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for special inspector in California is $22.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special inspector?

Special Inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that construction projects comply with approved plans, specifications, and building codes. They perform on-site inspections and tests of materials, workmanship, and building systems during construction. Special Inspectors are often certified in specific areas, such as concrete, structural steel, or fireproofing, and their role is critical in maintaining safety and quality standards. They work independently of contractors and report their findings to building officials and project stakeholders.

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

To thrive as a Special Inspector, you need a thorough understanding of construction codes, materials testing, and inspection procedures, typically backed by certifications such as ICC, ACI, or AWS. Familiarity with field testing equipment, reporting software, and digital documentation systems is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and integrity are crucial soft skills for effectively interacting with contractors and upholding safety standards. These skills ensure construction projects meet regulatory requirements and quality benchmarks, safeguarding public safety and project integrity.

What are some common challenges faced by special inspectors during construction projects, and how can they be addressed?

Special Inspectors often face challenges such as managing tight inspection schedules, coordinating with multiple contractors, and ensuring adherence to evolving building codes. Clear communication and thorough documentation are essential to resolve discrepancies and avoid delays. Building strong professional relationships with site personnel helps facilitate smoother inspections and promotes a collaborative approach to problem-solving.

What is the difference between Special Inspector vs Building Inspector?

AspectSpecial InspectorBuilding Inspector
CertificationsOften requires certifications like NICET or state-specific licensesTypically requires general building inspection certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentPrimarily on construction sites, focusing on specific systems or materialsInspects entire buildings for code compliance, often in office settings and on-site
Employer & Industry UsageUsed mainly in construction, civil engineering, and infrastructure projectsCommonly employed by local government, municipalities, and private firms

Special Inspectors focus on specific construction elements like structural, electrical, or mechanical systems, requiring specialized certifications. Building Inspectors perform comprehensive building code compliance checks for entire structures. While both roles ensure safety and adherence to codes, Special Inspectors have a more specialized scope within the construction process.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Special Inspector jobs?

Cities in California with the most Special Inspector job openings:

Special Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,043 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Special Inspector

NV5

Ventura, CA • On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
NV5 is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector clients, delivering solutions through six business verticals: Testing, Inspection & Consulting; Infrastructure; Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial Technology. With offices nationwide and abroad, NV5 helps clients plan, design, build, test, certify, and operate projects that improve the communities where we live and work.
At NV5, we provide comprehensive materials testing and inspection services across multiple states, including New Jersey, Florida, New Mexico, and California, with certified and approved laboratories. In addition to our fixed laboratories, we offer the flexibility of mobile laboratories to meet your testing needs on-site. Our expert team ensures that materials are thoroughly tested to verify compliance with applicable standards and specifications, ensuring they perform as designed.
Our services include specialized in-situ testing, such as ground-penetrating radar, floor flatness surveys, masonry shear testing, and forensic studies. Our field technicians and inspectors are certified by leading agencies, including ACI, ICC, and AWS, ensuring that on-site sampling and laboratory testing are conducted in strict accordance with ASTM and other relevant standards.
We are currently seeking to hire two Special Inspectors in the Ventura area with Caltrans and DSA project experience is highly desired!
Join our team of inspectors in Ventura as we continue to grow and expand. Apply today!
Responsibilities
NV5's Ventura, CA office is seeking Field Technicians and Special Inspectors with experience in two or more of the following:
  • Soil inspection
  • Reinforced concrete
  • Shotcrete
  • Masonry (Structural)
  • Spray-applied fireproofing
  • Structural steel/welding inspection or non-destructive testing

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • DSA and Caltrans project experience and Caltrans certification are required
  • ACI Level I Field Technician
  • ICC reinforced concrete
  • AWS- CWI welding inspector
  • ICC Structural Masonry
  • ICC Soils
  • ICC Fireproofing
  • ICC Structural Steel Bolting or Welding or NDT (ultrasonic, magnetic-particle, or liquid penetrant).
  • DSA Structural Masonry Inspectors are highly sought.

Our office is located in Ventura, CA, and we offer services throughout Kern, Visalia, and Kings counties, as well as occasionally in other areas and for overnight trips. The majority of our work involves public infrastructure, which is subject to California Prevailing Wages.
The pay range for this California position is $30.00- $45.00 base pay per hour. The base pay offered may be higher or lower, depending on the candidate's job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and location. Restricted stock units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, depending on the position offered.
All local employment laws apply. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via the NV5 careers site.
NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k), and professional development/advancement opportunities.
NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
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About NV5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NV5 is a renowned company based in Los Angeles, CA, US, that operates in the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Officially established in 2009, this company provides technical engineering and consulting solutions that cater to public and private sectors globally. The firm is adept in a wide range of services, including infrastructure, energy, construction, program management, and environmental services. As part of its mission, NV5 seeks to deliver solutions that enhance communities and safeguard the environment meticulously.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

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