1

Special Inspector Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

The Geotechnical Special Inspector is responsible for conducting jobsite inspections and materials testing throughout the SeaTac Area . Salary & Benefits Information: The base wage or salary range ...

The Geotechnical Special Inspector is responsible for conducting jobsite inspections and materials testing throughout the SeaTac Area . Salary & Benefits Information: The base wage or salary range ...

New

The Geotechnical Special Inspector is responsible for conducting jobsite inspections and materials testing throughout the SeaTac Area . Salary & Benefits Information: The base wage or salary range ...

New

ICC Special Inspector - Tukwila, Washington Intertek, a leading provider of quality and safety solutions to many of the world's top-recognized brands and companies, is actively seeking an ICC Special ...

WABO Special Inspector

Redmond, WA · On-site

$32 - $55/hr

At Atlas, we're providing services that enable communities to flourish and thrive, and if you're a WABO Special Inspector ready to provide valuable special inspection services on some of the largest ...

At Atlas, we're providing services that enable communities to flourish and thrive, and if you're a WABO Special Inspector ready to provide valuable special inspection services on some of the largest ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Special Inspector information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$10

$25

$39

How much do special inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for special inspector in Seattle, WA is $25.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.53 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do inspectors make per inspection?

Special inspectors typically earn between $50 and $150 per inspection, depending on the complexity, location, and industry standards. Payments can vary based on experience, certifications, and the specific requirements of each inspection task.

What are Special Inspectors?

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 does a special inspector do?

A special inspector evaluates construction projects to ensure compliance with building codes, safety standards, and project specifications. They conduct inspections, review plans, and verify that work meets quality and safety requirements, often holding certifications such as NICET or ICC. Their work typically involves on-site assessments and detailed reporting to support project approval and safety assurance.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Construction and building inspectors, especially those with specialized skills or certifications such as structural or electrical inspection, tend to earn the highest salaries among inspector roles. Inspectors working in high-risk industries or in regions with a high cost of living often have higher pay, and those with extensive experience or advanced certifications can command higher wages.

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.

How much do special inspectors make?

Special inspectors in NYC typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry or sector. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of inspections and the employer, with some inspectors earning higher with specialized skills or overtime work.

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 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 popular job titles related to Special Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA? For Special Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Special Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Special Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Special Inspector jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Special Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Special Inspector job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,093 per year, or $25.5 per hour.
Special Inspector ICC / WABO-Certified

Special Inspector ICC / WABO-Certified

Kleinfelder Inc

Redmond, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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


Kleinfelder rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

201st of 369 rated engineering


Job description


Take Your Construction Career to the Next Level!
Kleinfelder, a Forbes' Top Employer for Engineers in North America, is committed to a people-first culture, technical excellence, and creating opportunities where employees can thrive!
Are you ready to be challenged, make a difference, and experience professional growth in your career? Kleinfelder's Construction Services team is looking for you! From construction management and observation/inspection services to laboratory testing and materials and forensic engineering, our Construction Services market helps to develop and maintain America's infrastructure and supply chain and is a recognized industry leader with more than 25 accredited laboratories.
Step into Your New Role
Kleinfelder, a long-standing industry leader in the Puget Sound area, is looking for ICC- and WABO-certified Special Inspectors to join our Seattle (Redmond), Washington office. In addition to the opportunity to work on some of the largest and most interesting projects in the area, Kleinfelder also offers:
  • Competitive Wages;
  • Benefits, including medical, dental, vision, & life insurance; HSA & FSA; 401K; paid holidays; and paid time off (PTO);
  • Signing Bonus for WABO certifications;
  • Certification training and professional development (ICC, WABO, ACI, AWS, etc.);
  • Employee referral bonuses;
  • Career advancement opportunities with one of the largest and most respected firms in the industry.

If you are looking for a CAREER opportunity, to development your professional skills, enhance your technical certifications, and work on resume building projects; then we want to talk to you!
We're looking for inspection professionals to join us in providing high-level inspection and testing services to our diverse client base on projects throughout western Washington. We need inspectors who are comfortable being actively engaged on construction sites performing special inspections and testing of construction materials in the field. This role offers a dynamic work environment, the opportunity to work on multiple high-profile projects, and be part of an industry leading company.
Kleinfelder recognizes our staff as the key to our success. Accordingly, we partner with our staff to establish and achieve career development goals designed to build your professional experience and technical confidence by helping you obtain additional inspection and testing certifications.
Consideration for this position requires the following certifications or experience:
  • Minimum of two years of related inspection experience
  • ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician - Grade 1.
  • ICC Reinforced Concrete Special Inspector, and ability to obtain WABO Reinforced Concrete (RC) certification within one month of hire, if not already certified.
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
  • Use a company provided laptop or tablet computer and a working knowledge of MS Office programs (e.g. Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.).
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • A good work ethic and high level of personal integrity.
  • Authorization to work in the United States

In addition to the above required certifications, hiring preference will be given to those with any of the following certifications or experience:
  • Radiation Safety training for the operation of a nuclear density gauge.
  • ICC Pre-stressed Concrete Special Inspector (WABO PC);
  • ICC Spray-applied Fireproofing Special Inspector (WABO FP);
  • ICC Structural Masonry Special Inspector (WABO SM);
  • ICC Structural Steel & Welding Special Inspector (WABO SW);
  • ICC Structural Steel and Bolting Special Inspector (WABO SSB);
  • Other WABO Special Inspector designations (SC, LW, CF, PI, PA, FS); or
  • Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) - American Welding Society (AWS).
  • Associates degree or higher in construction management, construction technology, or related engineering field
  • A professional engineer (P.E.) registration in the State of Washington. Similarly an Engineer-In-Training (EIT) is preferred.

Following an offer, candidates will be required to satisfactorily complete employment reference checks, verification of professional licensure and/or educational credentials, a motor vehicle report (MVR), and a comprehensive background check.
Move Forward with Kleinfelder
Kleinfelder has been connecting great people to the best work since 1961. We are engineers, scientists, and construction professionals providing solutions that improve our clients' transportation, water, energy, and other private infrastructure. As a responsive, cross-disciplinary team of bright, curious, and innovative problem-solvers, we are dedicated to doing the right thing, every day, on every project from over 85 offices in the US, Canada, and Australia. Connecting great people to the best work is our purpose - together, we deliver.
Progress with an Employer that Values You
Kleinfelder is an inclusive organization free from discrimination. We are a stronger organization when we are a diverse workforce and believe that throughdiversity, equity, and inclusion comes creativity, innovation, and unity. We are proud to offer the following:
Benefits: Kleinfelder offers an excellent compensation and benefits package, including: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, and paid holidays.The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the Washington Equal Pay and Opportunity Act. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. Pay range: $30.02 - $50.72 per hour.
Career Development: We are committed to investing in the professional development of our staff, offering each employee every opportunity to grow, develop, and take control of their career paths. We support these efforts through reimbursements for continuing education as well as many of the expenses associated with trainings and certifications, and opportunities for career development through our internal Mentoring Program.
Equal Opportunity: Kleinfelder is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Women/Disabled/Veterans. (Compliant with the new VEVRAA and Section 503 rules)
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES
Please note that Kleinfelder does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Fee Agreement, Kleinfelder will not consider or agree to payment for any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, Kleinfelder explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resume, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Kleinfelder.

What Kleinfelder employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom