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Utility Inspection Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

kennedyjc

Construction Inspector

Los Angeles, CA

$50/hr

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

kennedyjc

Construction Inspector

San Diego, CA · On-site

$50/hr

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

kennedyjc

Construction Inspector

Lancaster, CA

$50/hr

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

kennedyjc

Construction Inspector

Santa Clarita, CA

$50/hr

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

kennedyjc

Construction Inspector

Pasadena, CA

$50/hr

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

kennedyjc

Construction Inspector

Sacramento, CA

$50/hr

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

Kennedy Jenks

Construction Inspector

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$50/hr

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

Kennedy Jenks

Construction Inspector

San Diego, CA · On-site

$50/hr

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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All JobsUtility Inspection JobsUtility Inspection Jobs in California

Utility Inspection information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do utility inspection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 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 certifications do you need to be a pipeline inspector?

Pipeline inspectors typically need certifications such as API (American Petroleum Institute) certifications, OSHA safety training, and sometimes NACE corrosion control certifications. These credentials demonstrate knowledge of industry standards, safety protocols, and technical skills required for inspecting pipelines and related infrastructure.

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 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 kind of inspectors make the most money?

Utility inspectors who specialize in high-demand areas such as pipeline, electrical, or environmental inspection tend to earn higher salaries. Senior inspectors with extensive experience, certifications, and specialized skills often make the most money in this field. Advanced knowledge of industry standards and the ability to handle complex inspections contribute to higher pay.

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 to 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 operations. Relevant skills include knowledge of safety protocols, technical inspection procedures, and often obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training or specialized utility inspection licenses. On-the-job training is common, and strong attention to detail and communication skills are essential for success in this role.

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.

Do pipeline inspectors make good money?

Pipeline inspectors, including those in utility inspection roles, typically earn a competitive salary that varies by experience, location, and industry. They often require certifications such as API or ASNT and work in environments that may involve outdoor conditions and safety protocols. Overall, the job can provide a stable income with opportunities for advancement.
What are popular job titles related to Utility Inspection jobs in California? For Utility Inspection jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Inspection jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Inspection jobs in California are:
Utility Inspection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Inspection job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,491 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Construction Inspector

kennedyjc

Los Angeles, CA

$50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Construction Inspector (TRC On-Call) with pipeline experience in California to support water and wastewater infrastructure projects with a focus on underground utilities, pipeline installation, field quality observation, and construction documentation.

In this role, you’ll observe contractor work, document progress, support testing and commissioning, and coordinate with construction managers, resident engineers, contractors, clients, and internal teams.

What You’ll Do

As a Construction Inspector, you'll work at the intersection of construction observation, quality assurance, field documentation, and project coordination to support the successful delivery of water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

  • Inspect field work: Conduct inspections to ensure contractor work aligns with plans, specifications, and quality standards.
  • Document progress: Prepare daily reports, including written documentation and photo logs.
  • Support testing and reviews: Assist with material testing, special inspections, contractor submittal review, and as-built drawing review.
  • Monitor requirements: Make sure work complies to public, regulatory, and permitting agency requirements, including SWPPP and safety practices.
  • Coordinate in the field: Support pipeline testing, flushing, commissioning, and startup activities; participate in progress meetings; interact with clients; and work under the direct supervision of the Construction Manager, Resident Engineer, or Lead Inspector.

What Makes This Role Different

  • Field insight that protects quality: Your documentation helps identify issues early, support timely decisions, and reduce rework, delays, or disputed field conditions.
  • Direct impact on essential infrastructure: Your work supports water and wastewater systems that serve communities and protect public health.
  • Bridge between plans and construction: You help project teams connect design intent, field conditions, contractor work, and client expectations.

What You Bring

  • Strong communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Work style: Ability to work independently and within a team.
  • Field coordination: Comfort working with contractors, clients, inspectors, testing firms, and internal project teams.

Qualifications

  • Education and experience: Technical school certificate or degree preferred, or equivalent experience; 3 years of water or wastewater infrastructure experience required, with pipeline or underground utility inspection experience strongly preferred.
  • Technical and software skills: Familiarity with construction blueprints, drawings, specifications, applicable codes, Microsoft Office, inspection tools, and reporting systems.
  • Work environment: Fieldwork includes exposure to varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, construction noise, traffic, equipment, and potential hazardous materials.
  • Safety requirements: Strict adherence to safety protocols is required, including use of required personal protective equipment and project-specific safety practices.

This role requires full-time presence on project sites and in the office as needed. KJ offers relocation support if needed.

Hourly Pay Rate: Anticipated at $50.00/hour and may vary based on experience, qualifications, certifications, and location. Many of our California public works projects are subject to prevailing wage, often exceeding base pay.

Benefits summary: Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance; a health savings account; a 401(k); bonus programs; tuition reimbursement; employee ownership opportunity; professional registration support; business travel assistance; competitive paid time off and holidays; an employee assistance program; and additional programs that support your wellbeing and professional growth.

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