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Utility Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience; 3 years of water or wastewater infrastructure experience required, with pipeline or underground utility inspection ...

Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience; 3 years of water or wastewater infrastructure experience required, with pipeline or underground utility inspection ...

Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience; 3 years of water or wastewater infrastructure experience required, with pipeline or underground utility inspection ...

Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience; 3 years of water or wastewater infrastructure experience required, with pipeline or underground utility inspection ...

Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience; 3 years of water or wastewater infrastructure experience required, with pipeline or underground utility inspection ...

Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience; 3 years of water or wastewater infrastructure experience required, with pipeline or underground utility inspection ...

Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience; 3 years of water or wastewater infrastructure experience required, with pipeline or underground utility inspection ...

Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience; 3 years of water or wastewater infrastructure experience required, with pipeline or underground utility inspection ...

Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience; 3 years of water or wastewater infrastructure experience required, with pipeline or underground utility inspection ...

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Showing results 1-20

Utility Inspection information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do utility inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility inspection in California is $19.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a utility inspector do?

A Utility Inspector is responsible for examining and evaluating utility infrastructure such as pipelines, power lines, water systems, and other related facilities. They ensure that these utilities are installed, maintained, and operated according to regulatory standards and safety guidelines. Their job may involve conducting site visits, documenting findings, and reporting issues to ensure reliability and compliance. Utility Inspectors play a key role in preventing accidents, minimizing service disruptions, and protecting public safety. They often work for utility companies, government agencies, or inspection firms.

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

To thrive as a Utility Inspector, you need a solid understanding of utility systems, safety regulations, and inspection protocols, often supported by relevant technical education or certifications. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, inspection software, and sometimes NACE or API certifications is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help inspectors identify issues and coordinate with teams. These skills are crucial to ensure infrastructure safety, regulatory compliance, and efficient utility operations.

What are some common challenges utility inspectors face during fieldwork, and how can they be addressed?

Utility inspectors often encounter challenges such as adverse weather conditions, difficult terrain, and ensuring compliance with safety standards while conducting inspections. To overcome these, inspectors typically receive thorough safety training, use specialized equipment, and coordinate closely with utility crews. Effective communication with team members and staying updated on regulatory requirements also help address these challenges, ensuring inspections are thorough and safe.

What is the difference between Utility Inspection vs Utility Line Locator?

AspectUtility InspectionUtility Line Locator
CertificationsMay require safety and inspection certificationsOften requires locators' certifications and training
Work EnvironmentInspecting infrastructure, often at sites or facilitiesLocating underground or hidden utility lines, outdoors or in trenches
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by utility companies, inspectors, and contractorsPrimarily used by utility companies, construction, and excavation firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding inspection roles and responsibilitiesLocating underground utilities to prevent damage

Utility Inspection involves assessing the condition and safety of utility infrastructure, while Utility Line Locator focuses on identifying the location of underground utility lines. Both roles are essential in utility management and often work together during construction or maintenance projects.

How do you become a utility inspector?

To become a utility inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in construction, engineering, or utility work. Some positions require certifications such as OSHA safety training or specific technical licenses, and strong attention to detail and knowledge of utility systems are important for success.

What is a utility inspector?

A utility inspector is a professional responsible for examining and assessing utility infrastructure such as water, gas, electric, and telecommunications lines to ensure safety, compliance, and proper installation. They often use specialized tools, follow safety protocols, and may require certifications or knowledge of codes and regulations. The role involves fieldwork in various environments and can include inspecting new installations or maintenance work.
Infographic showing various Utility Inspection job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,491 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Utility Inspector

E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$55 - $58/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post hasย expired 3 days ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

About the Organization

E2 Consulting Engineers, LP (E2) is a professional services firm established in 1988 specializing in a full spectrum of engineering services including, project engineering and design, federal base operations and infrastructure support services, gas pipeline construction and inspection services, environmental consulting and remediation, and information technology services. At E2, we value safety, innovation and collaboration, and we are dedicated to excellence.

Overview

The Utility inspector provides inspection of the contractor's qualify of work in accordance with the client's policies and procedures as it relates to excavation and installation on pipeline construction projects.ย  The Utility Inspector works under the general direction of the Chief Inspector, who may assign additional responsibilities to the inspector as needed.

Responsibilities

The Utility Inspector works under the direction of the Chief lnspector who may assign additional responsibilities to the Inspector as needed. The areas of inspection will include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Right-of-Way Clearing and Grading.
  • Ditching, Stringing, and Bending.
  • Lowering, Padding, and Backfilling.
  • Road Boring.
  • Clean-up.

The general duties and responsibilities of the Utility Inspector are as follows:

  • Being familiar with the approved construction drawings and the appropriate Company specifications and assuring the work is performed in accordance with those requirements.
  • Understanding the Contract document as it relates to his or her duties on the project.ย 
  • Maintaining a detailed inspector's log book.
  • Completing and submitting applicable inspection reports that accurately describe the work performed on the project.
  • Taking proactive approach to safety on the job site and reporting safety issues to the Construction Manager, Chief inspector and Safety Inspector.
  • Planning and organizing inspection duties in advance.
  • Assuring that any design changes or material substitutions are discussed with the Construction Manager, Chief Inspector and that proper Company approval is obtained.
  • Keeping the Chief Inspector aware of any daily problems or anticipated problems with the job.
Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • The minimum qualifications include a minimum of 3 years of combined field experience in construction and regulations in the natural gas industry with expertise in areas such as electrical, structural, mechanical, non-destructive testing, welding, and instrumentation.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.
  • Microsoft Office skills, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and implement the client's policies and procedures.
  • Ability to read construction drawings, alignment sheets and valve maps and translate to actual field constructability.
  • Competent in 49 CFR 192, ASME 31.8, and applicable OSHA standards.
  • Employment is contingent upon completing all applicable training during onboarding, including Operator Qualifications.

Preferred:

  • Project experience with urban natural gas transmission pipeline construction.
  • Experience or expertise in the following specialties:
  • Corrosion / Cathodic Protection / AC Mitigation
  • Jack and Bore / HDD
  • Materials Management
  • Coatings
  • NACE CIP Level 1 (If performing coating inspection).
  • General Transmission Pipeline Construction.
  • OSHA Competent Person.
  • GASWCC Level 1 Design Professional designation.
  • API-1169 Certification.
Benefits

E2 Consulting Engineers, LPย offers an excellent benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, 401(k) with employer match.

Wage Data Per State Requirements

Hourly rate for this position is $55.00 to $58.00.ย  The starting rate will be commensurate with skill, education, experience, and working environment.

Work Environment/Physical Demands
  • Construction Sites and/or Client Right-of-Way (R.O.W.).
  • Client testing facility (occasionally).
  • Corporate office (occasionally).
  • Reports to the Chief Inspector, based locally with respect to the projects.
  • Frequent ascending and descending of ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like, using feet and legs and/or hands and arms up in and out of pipeline bell-hole / trench / excavation.
  • Maintaining body equilibrium to prevent falling and walking, standing or crouching on narrow, slippery, or erratically moving surfaces.
  • Lifting objects in excess of 50 pounds from a lower to a higher position or moving objects horizontally from position to position.
  • Ability to perform visual inspection of construction crew quality of work; using measuring devices; and/or assembly of fabrication parts at distances close to the eyes.
  • Able to perform in both inside and outside environmental conditions in all four seasons throughout the continental United States - extreme cold (temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit) and/or extreme heat (temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit) for periods of more than one hour.
  • May require extensive driving to reach job sites and/or client/E2 offices.
Local Candidates onlyNoDrug Free Workplace

E2 Consulting Engineers, LPย is a Drug Free Workplace. After accepting an offer of employment, applicants may be required to undergo background checks, drug testing, and/or fit-for-duty physical examination.ย  Drug screens will include, but not be limited to, Amphetamines, Cocaine Metabolites, Marijuana Metabolites (THC), Opiates, and Phencyclidine (PCP). As a federal contractor, E2 cannot permit employees in certain positions to use medical marijuana, even if prescribed by an authorized physician.

Solicitation

Please no solicitation of any kind from agencies, staffing, or recruiting firms.

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME