How Much Does a Special Inspector Make in California?

Updated April 01, 2025
As of April 01, 2025, the average annual pay of Special Inspector in California is $72,192. While Salary.com is seeing that Special Inspector salary in CA can go up to $92,796 or down to $53,564, but most earn between $62,441 and $82,977. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, and your experience levels. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
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Similar Job Salaries to Special Inspector by Company

FIND A SPECIFIC EMPLOYER
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Company average base salary in (usd) range
$84,399/yr
$74,322
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EARTH SYSTEMS PACIFIC
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$75,257/yr
$66,232
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$64,525/yr
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$91,937/yr
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Opportunities - BSK Associates
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Top 10 Highest Paying Cities For Special Inspector Jobs in California

It is important to understand how location impacts your career prospects in the United States. There are some cities where a Special Inspector can find a job easily with a greater salary paid then achieve a higher standard of living. Below is the top cities list for Special Inspector job salaries in California. Some cities can pay higher salaries for Special Inspector jobs, which can indicate that there is a large demand for Special Inspector positions in this city.
The following table shows top 10 cities where the Special Inspector salary is higher than other cities in California. San Jose takes first place in this list, followed by Santa Clara, Fremont. The Special Inspector salary is $82,553 in San Jose, which is higher than the national average. There are 76 cities' Special Inspector salary higher than national average in California.
The average salary for a Special Inspector in California is $72,192, but we found that the city with the highest salary for Special Inspector jobs is San Jose, CA, and it is higher than Santa Clara. Special Inspector jobs in San Jose can have the opportunity to earn higher salaries than in other cities in California.
CITY ANNUAL SALARY MONTHLY PAY WEEKLY PAY HOURLY WAGE
San Jose $82,553 $6,879 $1,588 $40
Santa Clara $82,553 $6,879 $1,588 $40
Fremont $82,395 $6,866 $1,585 $40
San Francisco $81,741 $6,812 $1,572 $39
Daly City $81,741 $6,812 $1,572 $39
Berkeley $79,928 $6,661 $1,537 $38
Oakland $79,928 $6,661 $1,537 $38
Hayward $79,797 $6,650 $1,535 $38
Antioch $75,412 $6,284 $1,450 $36
Vallejo $73,632 $6,136 $1,416 $35

What Does a Special Inspector Do?

Special Inspectors must have all required certificates as required in Appendix A of the Special Inspection Rule.
Updated November 29, 2021
Special inspections must be performed by Special Inspectors on behalf of a registered Special Inspection Agency (SIA).
Updated October 26, 2021
The Special Inspector does not have the authority to stop a contractor from proceeding with construction— only the owner or DOB does.
Updated September 30, 2021
All applicants must provide proof that they meet the minimum qualifications established by the Building and Safety Division: accreditation certification from an approved agency or organization; resume of work history with references; and minimum of two years experience as a special inspector.
Updated December 17, 2021
In order to do this, the special inspector should not allow himself/herself to be otherwise engaged, employed or to act in a manner that would not allow full concentration of the task at hand.
Updated December 17, 2021

Frequently Asked Questions About a Special Inspector Salaries

What is the average of a Special Inspector in California?

The Special Inspector salary range is from $62,441 to $82,977, and the average Special Inspector salary is $72,192/year in California. The Special Inspector's salary will change in different locations.

Which location pays the highest Special Inspector salary in the United States?

The Special Inspector salary in San Jose, CA is $82,553 which is the highest in the US.

What kinds of reasons will influence the Special Inspector's salary?

Besides the location, employees' education degree, related skills, and work experience also will influence the salary. Try to improve your skills and experience to get a higher salary for the position of Special Inspector.

What is the growth rate of the Special Inspector's salary?

If you are thinking of becoming a Special Inspector or planning the next step in your career, find the detailed salary report of a Special Inspector.