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Utility Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Utility inspection experience in California is preferred. What You Will Do: Distribution Pilots support critical inspection efforts that help prevent infrastructure failures and reduce wildfire risk ...

The role requires direct coordination with the construction contractor and utility representatives ... Inspect installation of medium-voltage electrical equipment, including incoming switchgear, step ...

The role requires direct coordination with the construction contractor and utility representatives ... Inspect installation of medium-voltage electrical equipment, including incoming switchgear, step ...

The role requires direct coordination with the construction contractor and utility representatives ... Inspect installation of medium-voltage electrical equipment, including incoming switchgear, step ...

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Utility Inspector information

See California salary details

$17

$27

$58

How much do utility inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility inspector in California is $27.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.83 and $24.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 work. Relevant skills include knowledge of safety protocols, inspection procedures, and the use of tools like testing equipment; obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can also be beneficial.

Do pipeline inspectors make good money?

Pipeline inspectors, including utility inspectors, typically earn competitive wages that vary by experience, location, and industry. They often require certifications and may work in environments with safety protocols, which can influence salary levels. Overall, the role offers solid compensation within the infrastructure and utilities sector.

What type of inspector gets paid the most?

In the utility inspection field, senior or specialized inspectors such as pipeline or electrical inspectors tend to earn higher salaries due to their expertise and certifications. These roles often require advanced knowledge, safety training, and sometimes additional licensing, which contribute to higher pay compared to general utility inspectors.

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, construction standards, and safety regulations, usually backed by a relevant technical diploma or field experience. Familiarity with inspection tools, GIS mapping software, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help inspectors excel in identifying and reporting issues. These abilities are crucial for ensuring utility infrastructure meets quality and safety standards, protecting both public welfare and organizational interests.

What are Utility Inspectors?

Utility Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining and assessing utility systems such as water, gas, sewer, and electrical lines to ensure they meet safety, regulatory, and quality standards. Their duties often include inspecting new installations, maintenance work, and repairs, as well as documenting findings and reporting any issues. They play a vital role in preventing hazards, ensuring compliance with local codes, and maintaining reliable utility services for communities.

What are some common challenges Utility Inspectors face in the field and how can they be addressed?

Utility Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, accessing difficult or hazardous locations, and ensuring compliance with evolving safety regulations. To address these, inspectors should prioritize proper safety training, utilize appropriate personal protective equipment, and stay updated on current standards through continuous education. Collaboration with maintenance teams and clear communication with utility operators also help in efficiently resolving issues and maintaining inspection accuracy.

What is the difference between Utility Inspector vs Utility Technician?

AspectUtility InspectorUtility Technician
CertificationsOften requires safety and inspection certificationsRequires technical certifications related to utility systems
Work EnvironmentInspecting infrastructure, often outdoors or at job sitesMaintaining and repairing utility systems, often in field or plant settings
Employer & IndustryPublic utilities, government agencies, constructionUtility companies, energy providers, municipal services
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing inspection roles in utilitiesPeople looking into technical maintenance roles in utilities

The main difference is that Utility Inspectors focus on examining and ensuring the safety and compliance of utility infrastructure, while Utility Technicians perform hands-on maintenance and repairs. Both roles are essential in the utility industry but serve different functions within the infrastructure lifecycle.

How much do inspectors make per inspection?

Utility inspectors typically earn between $50 and $150 per inspection, depending on the complexity of the task, location, and company policies. Some inspectors may also receive hourly wages or salaries, with per-inspection pay often used for routine or specialized assessments.
What are popular job titles related to Utility Inspector jobs in California? For Utility Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Utility Inspector jobs? Cities in California with the most Utility Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Utility Inspector job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,680 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Vegetation Management Inspector - ISA Board Certified Master Arborist

Sierra Forestry Consulting LLC

Redding, CA

$42.78 - $52.87/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description

The Vegetation Management Inspector Series (VMI) positions will patrol for hazardous trees, perform identification, inspection and evaluation of trees and brush along utility lines.


The VMI will submit inspection results to clients with recommendations; may plan, direct, and coordinate the activities of assigned tree clearance crews; Discuss and negotiate line-clearance crew access issues; may serve as a liaison between clients, tree crews, and client customers.


The VMI Series positions are covered under International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1245, all employees in this position are required to join the union.


Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Perform circuit patrols in accordance with the annual VM plan, VM patrol standards and processes
  • Identify required tree work along the existing PG&E rights-of- way; prescribing tree work to be performed; document inspection done
  • Notify property owners/agencies when tree work will occur and obtaining any necessary authorizations from the property owners/agencies to perform the tree work
  • May serve as contact for new business and re-construction work
  • Perform work verification inspections verifying applicable inspection and tree work completion and quality
  • Perform investigation and documentation of tree-related outages and attending outage meetings as requested
  • May be assigned a variety of VM Tags; perform tracking, field checking, prescribing of work, and notifying of customers associated with non- routine locations
  • Assist in close out CC&B cases in the field after fielding the case
  • Support emergency response; dispatching tree crews, field checking sites, first responder stand-by agreements
  • Work independently complete tasks assigned by the supervisor
  • Support oversight of vegetation projects, including field operations such as tree assessment, tree trimming, and other work as required
  • Participate in contractor safety and tailboard meetings
  • Act as customer relations representative on behalf of PG&E
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations
  • Complete electronic and paper-based documentation and reporting
  • More experience/Senior VMI may audit work performed by other less experienced VMI
  • Senior VMI may assist with training of new VMI
  • Senior VMI may act as liaison to contractors to resolve obstacles to assist with work being performed in safe and productive manner

Desired Skills / Abilities:

  • Ability to work independently
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to read and follow maps
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
  • Ability to identify local trees and knowledge of growth rate
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software
  • Ability to prioritize and organize paying attention to detail for accuracy
  • Accountable: accepting personal responsibility
  • Ability to work additional hours and days

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High School diploma or GED
  • Required to maintain a Class C driver's license
  • Must be able to meet company driver acceptability requirements
  • Ability to drive 4x4 truck or SUV

Union Benefits Package - Fully paid by SFC: Blue Cross/Blue Shield Medical, Dental Network of America, VSP Vision, AD&D and Term life Insurance

Company Vehicle for Business Use

Company Cell Phone

FLSA: Non-exempt Hourly

Compensation: $42.78 to $52.87 hourly

Subsistence: $50.00 per day worked

Per Diem: up to $100 day as eligible

Bargaining Position: Yes


Requirements

Experience / Education Requirements:


VMI-1

  • One (1) year of Vegetation Management Inspector Start AND
  • One (1) year of related arboricultural experience, OR
  • ISA Certified Arborist, OR
  • 2-year or 4-year college degree in a related field
  • ISA Board Certified Master Arborist

SVMI

  • Five (5) years of experience as a tree crew climber/tree crew foreman with at least two (2) years of line clearance certification OR
  • Five (5) years of experience as a Vegetation Management Inspector AND ISA Certified Arborist OR
  • Five (5) years of experience as a Registered Professional Forester (RPF) OR
  • Five (5) years of experience as a Utility Inspector or higher classification with at least one (1) year of vegetation management experience OR
  • Four (4) years of Military Service with honorable discharge AND at least one (1) year additional year of Vegetation Management Inspection experience
  • Must successfully complete all training:
  • OSHA 30-hour construction safety overview (must be completed within six months of start date)
  • Certified Tree Safety Professional (CTSP) or ISA Certified Arborist (CA) with Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ) certificate (must be completed within six months of test eligibility)
  • 911 Standby Training (must be completed within one month of start date)
  • Working knowledge of QA/QC (must be completed within one month of start date)
  • ISA Board Certified Master Arborist


Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of standing outdoors
  • Prolonged periods walking and hiking outdoors in a variety of terrain
  • Prolonged periods of sitting and driving 4x4 truck and/or SUV
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds at times
  • Must be able to bend, lift, stretch, climb and crawl to check equipment and buildings
  • Must be able to perform work in a variety of weather conditions


Employment with Sierra Forestry Consulting LLC is contingent upon satisfactorily passing applicable drug screening and background check. SFC is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.