Field inspector vs utility inspector

The differences between field inspectors and utility inspectors can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 4-6 years to become both a field inspector and a utility inspector. Additionally, a field inspector has an average salary of $49,794, which is higher than the $43,725 average annual salary of a utility inspector.

The top three skills for a field inspector include customer service, sketch and inspection reports. The most important skills for a utility inspector are pipeline construction, gas meters, and backfill.

Field inspector vs utility inspector overview

	Field Inspector	Utility Inspector
Yearly salary	$49,794	$43,725
Hourly rate	$23.94	$21.02
Growth rate	-4%	-4%
Number of jobs	60,866	23,106
Job satisfaction	4	-
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 52%	High School Diploma, 33%
Average age	50	50
Years of experience	6	6

What does a field inspector do?

A field inspector is responsible for evaluating the value of a property, determining the estimated amount for processing loan applications according to business requirements. Field inspectors inspect the condition of the property, including its purchase documents, commercial reviews, and other related reports to set the property appraisal rate. They also coordinate with the property managers to identify potential risks within the vicinity of the property. A field inspector reviews all the information before submitting it to the loan department for further investigation and approval.

What does a utility inspector do?

A utility inspector is responsible for ensuring the safety of facilities and the stability of components and equipment that support daily operational functions. Utility inspectors inspect utility tools and equipment, conduct preventive maintenance, and identify inconsistencies for immediate repairs or replacement. They also handle the installation of new equipment and machinery, requiring them to have an excellent analysis of schematics and blueprints for accuracy. A utility inspector must have excellent mechanical and organizational skills, especially in writing incident reports and developing resolutions to avoid potential hazards and operational delays.

Field inspector vs utility inspector salary

Field inspectors and utility inspectors have different pay scales, as shown below.

	Field Inspector	Utility Inspector
Average salary	$49,794	$43,725
Salary range	Between $31,000 And $79,000	Between $32,000 And $58,000
Highest paying City	Anaheim, CA	Sacramento, CA
Highest paying state	California	Montana
Best paying company	Cohesity	RS&H
Best paying industry	Technology	Technology

Differences between field inspector and utility inspector education

There are a few differences between a field inspector and a utility inspector in terms of educational background:

	Field Inspector	Utility Inspector
Most common degree	Bachelor's Degree, 52%	High School Diploma, 33%
Most common major	Business	Business
Most common college	San Diego State University	San Diego State University

Field inspector vs utility inspector demographics

Here are the differences between field inspectors' and utility inspectors' demographics:

	Field Inspector	Utility Inspector
Average age	50	50
Gender ratio	Male, 77.6% Female, 22.4%	Male, 92.0% Female, 8.0%
Race ratio	Black or African American, 8.4% Unknown, 5.7% Hispanic or Latino, 13.1% Asian, 3.4% White, 68.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9%	Black or African American, 8.3% Unknown, 5.7% Hispanic or Latino, 13.0% Asian, 3.4% White, 68.6% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.9%
LGBT Percentage	5%	5%

Differences between field inspector and utility inspector duties and responsibilities

Field inspector example responsibilities.

Manage RFI files and records.
Manage and inspect fiber optic cable placement, fiber drop installations and associate construction activities for an assign OSP project.
Conduct tests such as, but not limit to, all common ACI field tests, all common ASTM laboratory tests.
Inspect the exterior and interior, including attach buildings, plumbing, HVAC systems, electrical system, attic and roof.
Perform interior and exterior BPO's.
Utilize ArcMap software to generate GIS mapping.

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Utility inspector example responsibilities.

Remain compliant with API 1104 and Enogex WPS's and manage technical documents and information sharing.
Inspect all coating application to ensure proper application and WFT is achieved per clients and manufacturers specifications and standards.
Document heat numbers of pipe and x-ray numbers and GPS coordinates of welds.
Conduct internal quality audits to ensure compliance with all FAA, EASA, OSHA and ISO regularity compliance.
Perform inspection and classification of various construction materials and construction activities including installation of asphalt, concrete, and soil foundations.
Ensure contractors have and used PPE.

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Field inspector vs utility inspector skills

Common field inspector skills

Customer Service, 18%
Sketch, 11%
Inspection Reports, 6%
Asphalt, 5%
Ladders, 5%
GPS, 4%

Common utility inspector skills

Pipeline Construction, 18%
Gas Meters, 12%
Backfill, 11%
Safety Procedures, 6%
Utility Poles, 5%
DOT, 4%

Field Inspector vs. similar jobs

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Updated January 8, 2025

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