Learn How to Become a Cal/OSHA Field Inspector

Field inspector at a farm. Become a Cal/OSHA Field Inspector

Looking for an exciting career opportunity as a Cal/OSHA field inspector? This webpage provides helpful information on the state's hiring process for prospective applicants.

Currently, Cal/OSHA has over 60 field inspector job opportunities available throughout California. To locate potential district offices, you can visit the Cal/OSHA Enforcement Regional and District Offices webpage or visit our enforcement regional map to view the areas of responsibility.

To view general information about working for Cal/OSHA, including the unparalleled benefits and competitive salaries, please visit our Work for Cal/OSHA webpage.

Process

Generally, to join our team, the process consists of three important steps:

  • Step 1:  Passing an exam
  • Step 2:  Applying for job openings
  • Step 3:  Interviewing for a position

At Cal/OSHA, there are two primary job classifications for field inspectors Safety Engineers (see also Assistant Safety Engineer) and Industrial Hygienists. Anyone can apply, but you must meet the minimum qualifications for specific job classifications.  Specific details about the application process and the minimum qualifications for certain job classification are described below. For additional information on the hiring process, please visit our How to Get a State Job webpage.

Important notice: For those who are interested in an Industrial Hygiene position listed below, you may not need to take an exam before applying for a job opening.

Cal/OSHA is Hiring Assistant and Associate Safety Engineers

Safety Engineers:

Minimum Qualifications: Read the "Minimum Qualifications" on the Assistant Safety Engineer job specification and Associate Safety Engineer job specification to learn what classification you may qualify for and is the right fit for you.

Exams: To be hired for the Assistant or Associate Safety Engineer position, you must pass an exam.  Depending on the position you would like to apply for, you must take either the Assistant Safety Engineer or Associate Safety Engineer exam.  Some job postings are accepting both Assistant Safety Engineer and Associate Safety Engineer applicants, therefore, you are encouraged to take both exams if you meet the "Minimum Qualifications".

Note: for the Associate Safety Engineer exam, you have to click on "CLICK HERE" specifically to access the Official Exam Bulletin. 

Apply for a Safety Engineer job opening:

See a list of the Assistant Safety Engineer jobs available

Note: some of these job postings are for multiple locations.  Read under "Department Information" to see the work locations.  For instance, Assistant Safety Engineer Job Posting JC-214683 is for positions in "Multiple work locations throughout the state: San Francisco, Oakland, Fremont, Foster City, Sacramento, Modesto, Redding, Santa Ana, San Bernardino, San Diego, Los Angeles, Monrovia, Van Nuys, and Bakersfield.

See a list of the Associate Safety Engineer jobs available

If you have any questions during this process, email CalOSHAJobs@dir.ca.gov

Cal/OSHA is Hiring Junior, Assistant, and Associate Industrial Hygienists

Industrial Hygienists:

Minimum Qualifications: Read the "Minimum Qualifications" on the Industrial Hygienist job specification to learn what classification you may qualify for and is the right fit for you.

Exams: To be hired for the Junior, Assistant, Associate, or Senior Industrial Hygiene positions, you must pass an exam. Some job postings are accepting both Assistant Industrial Hygienist and Associate Safety Hygienist applicants, therefore, you are encouraged to take both exams if you meet the "Minimum Qualifications".

Looking for an Industrial Hygienist job opening, see the list of job openings for the following classifications:

Have questions? Want to learn more?

For assistance, contact Cal/OSHA by sending an email to CalOSHAJobs@dir.ca.gov

January 2023