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Building Code Enforcement Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Code Enforcement Officer I

Lomita, CA · On-site

$71K - $86K/yr

Responds to complaints of potential code violations relating to signing, building occupancy ... Enforces Municipal Code regulations including health & safety, sanitation, tax & business license ...

Responds to complaints of potential code violations relating to signing, building occupancy ... Enforces Municipal Code regulations including health & safety, sanitation, tax & business license ...

Code Enforcement Officer The future is now, Willdan is "Envisioning the Future" of building and safety through our work with cities, buildings, and transportation. Public Agency Resources (PARS), a ...

Overview The Code Enforcement Officer II is the journey level class in the Code Enforcement Officer ... of building and related codes. Primary Responsibilities The work requires independence and ...

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Building Code Enforcement information

See California salary details

$27.6K

$96.9K

$146.1K

How much do building code enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for building code enforcement in California is $96,860.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are building inspectors in high demand?

Building inspectors are generally in steady demand due to ongoing construction, renovation, and safety regulations. Employment for this role is expected to grow as cities and states enforce building codes and require inspections, often requiring certification and knowledge of local codes.

What degree do you need to be a code enforcement officer?

Building code enforcement officers typically need at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but many employers prefer candidates with postsecondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in construction management, architecture, engineering, or a related field. Relevant knowledge of building codes, inspection procedures, and sometimes certification or licensing is also required. Experience in construction or building inspection can be beneficial for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Building Code Enforcement Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Code Enforcement Officer, you need a solid understanding of building codes, construction practices, and inspection procedures, often supported by a degree in construction management or a related field. Familiarity with inspection software, permitting systems, and relevant certifications such as ICC (International Code Council) certification is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to handle conflict diplomatically set exceptional officers apart. These skills are vital to ensure public safety, legal compliance, and effective collaboration with contractors, property owners, and government agencies.

How much do building inspectors make?

Building inspectors in North Carolina typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of inspections and the employer, with some inspectors earning higher wages with specialized skills or advanced certifications. The role often requires knowledge of building codes, safety standards, and inspection tools.

What is the difference between Building Code Enforcement vs Building Inspector?

AspectBuilding Code EnforcementBuilding Inspector
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in code enforcement or building inspection, such as ICC certificationsRequires ICC Building Inspector certifications or equivalent
Work EnvironmentEnforces building codes, reviews plans, conducts inspections, and ensures compliancePerforms inspections, reviews plans, and enforces building codes at construction sites or existing structures
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by local governments, municipalities, and building departmentsEmployed by similar entities, often overlapping with code enforcement roles

Building Code Enforcement focuses on ensuring compliance with building codes through inspections and enforcement actions, while Building Inspectors primarily conduct inspections and review plans to verify code adherence. Both roles require similar certifications and work within the same industry environment, often overlapping in duties but with different emphasis on enforcement versus inspection.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Building code enforcement inspectors with specialized skills, such as senior inspectors or those with certifications in fire safety or electrical systems, tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors working in commercial or industrial settings often make more than those in residential inspections, and experience, certifications, and geographic location also influence earnings.

What is building code enforcement?

Building code enforcement refers to the process by which local government officials ensure that construction and renovation projects comply with established building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards. Code enforcement officers inspect buildings, review plans, and issue permits to guarantee that structures are safe, accessible, and built according to legal requirements. Their work helps protect public health and safety by preventing unsafe construction practices and addressing violations. They may also investigate complaints from the public regarding potential code violations. Overall, building code enforcement is essential for maintaining the structural integrity and safety of communities.

What are some common challenges faced by building code enforcement officers, and how can they be addressed?

Building code enforcement officers often encounter challenges such as managing interactions with property owners who may be unfamiliar with regulations or resistant to compliance. They must also keep up with evolving codes and handle a broad range of inspections across residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Strong communication, ongoing training, and a collaborative approach with colleagues and other municipal departments help address these challenges, ensuring both safety standards and positive community relations are maintained.
What are popular job titles related to Building Code Enforcement jobs in California? For Building Code Enforcement jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Code Enforcement jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Building Code Enforcement jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Building Code Enforcement job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,860 per year, or $46.6 per hour.
Lead Code Enforcement Officer

Lead Code Enforcement Officer

GovernmentJobs.com

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Job Summary

Leads, coordinates, trains and participates in the work activities of Code Enforcement Officers involved in enforcing municipal and regulatory codes. Responds to problems and interacts with the public in difficult and unusual code violation situations. Works under the administrative supervision of the Code Enforcement Supervisor, who outlines work assignments, occasionally reviews work in progress, and periodically reviews completed work. Leads and coordinates Code Enforcement Officers, outlining work assignments, frequently reviewing work in progress and carefully reviewing completed work.

Representative Duties

Leads, trains, schedules, and coordinates the daily work activities of Code Enforcement Officers. Checks employee time cards for accuracy. Reviews the work of others and provides input to employees' performance evaluations. Reviews goals and objectives of assigned staff and provides guidance to achieve established goals, objectives and standards. Participates in the development of the Division's goals, policies and procedures. Performs public relations activities to establish and promote community outreach goals for neighborhood groups and community associations within assigned area(s) of code enforcement. Receives and investigates difficult public complaints regarding potential municipal code violations. Conducts inspections and determines presence and type of violation, such as zoning, noise standards, signage, substandard housing, property maintenance, and business licenses. Coordinates task force inspections related to nuisance properties and night/weekend business operations. Coordinates and monitors special enforcement programs, such as the Vacant Property and Taxi Enforcement Programs. Prepares and serves notices of violations, abatement orders, citations, corrections and stop work orders. Interprets and explains municipal codes and ordinances to residents, contractors, businesses and the general public. Gathers, maintains and presents detailed evidence necessary to enforce applicable municipal code provisions. Prepares reports and cases for court proceedings and; testifies in court, as necessary. Assists the Code Enforcement Supervisor in investigating, reporting and monitoring cases of increasing complexity. Provides information to others regarding the right to due process in code enforcement cases. Inspects signs, properties and structures for compliance with planning approvals/permits, and/or Architectural Review Board conditions and/or other state and municipal laws. Conducts sound tests of mechanical equipment, construction equipment, ambient noise levels and amplified music for compliance to municipal noise regulations. Reviews conditions of onsite drainage, weatherproofing, garbage, weed and rubbish control, and rodent and insect infestation. Works with local and state agencies on to address potential health and life-safety violations. Responds to difficult inquires and complaints. Communicates findings and makes recommendations regarding courses of action to the Code Enforcement Supervisor and/or Manager. Performs other related duties, as assigned.

Requirements

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills : Knowledge of: Principles and practices of code enforcement. Applicable federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations governing building, housing, electrical, mechanical, plumbing and property maintenance. Principles of land use and zoning. Legal actions applicable to code enforcement, arrest, abatement warrants, right-of-entry, and due process. Safe work practices and procedures. Procedures and methods involved in investigating violations and preparing documentation for court cases. Research, analysis and report writing techniques. Computer word processing, spreadsheet and database applications, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Current office procedures, practices and equipment. Principles and procedures of recordkeeping. Basic supervisory principles and techniques. Effective training and coordinating techniques. Effective customer service techniques. Skill in: Reading, writing and communicating at an appropriate level. Working effectively with persons from diverse social, cultural and economic backgrounds. Using a personal computer and applicable software applications. Education, Training and Experience : Graduation from an accredited college with an Associate's degree or 60 semester units or the equivalent of college level coursework in Engineering, Business or Public Administration, or a closely related field. A Bachelor's degree in a related field is highly desirable. Four years of recent, paid code enforcement work experience in a public sector agency. Experience must include a full range of municipal code enforcement activities with complex investigation, reporting and monitoring responsibilities. Additional recent, related work experience may substitute for the educational requirement on a year for year basis. (Successful completion of 30 semester units or the equivalent is equal to one year of the additional work experience.) Licenses and Certificates : Possession of a valid class C driver license. Possession of a valid P.C. 832 – Arrest Course certificate. Possession of a valid Certified Code Enforcement Officer Certificate (i.e. successful completion of Basic, Intermediate and Advanced Level modules) issued by the California Association of Code Enforcement Officers (CACEO).

Supplemental Information

Applicants must submit a clear, concise, completed on-line City Application along with any required supplemental application materials with the Human Resources Department by the filing deadline. If you do not submit your on-line application by the filing deadline, you will not be considered for this position. Please note, applications may be rejected if incomplete. Resumes, CVs and cover letters are not reviewed as part of the application screening process. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your college diploma/transcript and/or certificates. Applicants who indicated receipt of degree from a foreign institution must provide United States degree and credential equivalency verification along with a copy of your college diploma/transcript. All materials must be received in the Human Resources Department no later than close of business on the application closing date. You may attach a scanned copy of your college diplomas or transcript and license to your online application. Failure to do so will result in your application being disqualified. SELECTION PROCESS: All applicants will be reviewed and only those candidates determined to be most qualified on the basis of experience, training and education, as submitted, will be invited to participate further in the selection process. Testing may consist of any of the following: - Evaluation of Qualifications (Pass/Fail) - Oral Interview: 100% If three or more qualified City employees apply and pass the examination, a promotional list will be established in addition to an open-competitive list. If fewer than three qualified City employees pass the examination, the appointing authority, in accordance with the City's civil service rules and regulations, can decline to use a promotional list, in which case a promotional list will not be established for this position. The City of Santa Monica is a progressive, inclusive and culturally-rich community. As leaders in public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a highly-talented workforce where people of diverse races, religions, cultures and lifestyles thrive. Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and where their differences make a positive impact. The City is an equal opportunity employer and strives to build balanced teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. We aim to create a workplace that celebrates and embraces the diversity of our employees. Join us! Special assistance with the application and examination process is available, upon request, for persons with disabilities. Call (310) 458-8246, TDD (310) 458-8696 (Hearing Impaired Only). Please note the request for reasonable accommodations must be made to Human Resources at least three work days prior to the examination. Background Investigation: Candidates who have successfully completed all prior phases of the selection process will be subject to a thorough background investigation. WORKING CONDITIONS Work is regularly performed indoors in an office environment. Work requires visiting off-site facilities, noisy construction zones, and other outdoor work sites where the incumbent is exposed to noise, dust, dirt, and/or slippery surfaces. Physical demands include standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, stooping, sitting at a computer workstation to use a computer keyboard and monitor/screen. May be required to work evenings and/or weekends.