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Building Code Inspector Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Codes Officer

Farragut, TN · On-site

$32.74 - $40.92/hr

Conducts field inspections for code compliance of commercial and residential structures related to building, plumbing, fuel gas, mechanical, life safety, fire, energy compliance, housing, zoning ...

New

Codes Officer

Farragut, TN · On-site

$32.74 - $40.92/hr

Conducts field inspections for code compliance of commercial and residential structures related to building, plumbing, fuel gas, mechanical, life safety, fire, energy compliance, housing, zoning ...

New

Codes Officer

Knoxville, TN

$32.74 - $40.92/hr

Conducts field inspections for code compliance of commercial and residential structures related to building, plumbing, fuel gas, mechanical, life safety, fire, energy compliance, housing, zoning ...

Codes Officer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$32.74 - $40.92/hr

Conducts field inspections for code compliance of commercial and residential structures related to building, plumbing, fuel gas, mechanical, life safety, fire, energy compliance, housing, zoning ...

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Showing results 1-20

Building Code Inspector information

See Tennessee salary details

$27.2K

$58.4K

$87.6K

How much do building code inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for building code inspector in Tennessee is $58,416.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,600.00 and $67,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Building Code Inspector Do?

A building code inspector assesses structures to ensure that they meet all local and state requirements. In this role, you travel to different buildings and inspect them for structural integrity and safety. In addition to the overall construction, you examine components of the building, such as exits, plumbing, heating, electrical, and fire safety systems. Your job duties include documenting your findings and issuing a report to relevant authorities. If you have proper licensure, you can issue a violation notice to the building owner; you explain the issue and tell them how to fix it so that the building is up to code.

What are Building Code Inspectors?

Building Code Inspectors are professionals who examine construction projects to ensure they comply with local, state, and federal building codes and regulations. They inspect structures at various stages of construction, renovation, or repair to verify that all work meets safety, design, and zoning requirements. Their role helps protect public safety by ensuring buildings are structurally sound and safe for occupancy. Building Code Inspectors often specialize in areas such as electrical, plumbing, or fire safety, depending on their training and certification.

What are some common challenges Building Code Inspectors face on the job?

Building Code Inspectors often encounter challenges such as keeping up with frequent changes in building codes and regulations, managing a busy inspection schedule, and handling situations where builders or property owners may not agree with inspection findings. Communication skills are essential, as inspectors regularly need to explain code requirements and corrective actions to diverse stakeholders. Additionally, balancing thoroughness with efficiency is key to ensuring safety without causing unnecessary project delays.

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. Entry-level inspectors may start lower, while experienced professionals with advanced certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries can also vary based on the complexity of inspections and the employing organization.

What kind of inspectors make the most money?

Building code inspectors with advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or experience in commercial or industrial buildings tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors working in high-demand regions or for large organizations may also have higher earning potential, especially if they oversee complex projects or hold supervisory roles.

How much do inspectors make per inspection?

Building code inspectors typically do not get paid per inspection but earn an hourly or salary wage, which can range from $20 to $50 per hour depending on experience, location, and employer. Some inspectors may receive additional compensation for overtime or specialized certifications, and their workload can vary based on project size and complexity.

What is required to become a building inspector?

To become a building inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant work experience in construction or building trades, and often must obtain state or local certification or licensing. Many inspectors also pursue post-secondary education or training in building codes, and must stay current with evolving regulations through continuing education.

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

AspectBuilding Code InspectorBuilding Inspector
CertificationsTypically requires ICC or state-specific building code certificationsOften requires similar certifications, may vary by jurisdiction
Work EnvironmentInspects new construction, renovations, and existing buildings for code compliancePerforms inspections during various construction phases and existing building assessments
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, government agencies, private firmsMunicipalities, construction companies, government agencies

Building Code Inspectors and Building Inspectors often perform similar roles, focusing on ensuring construction and buildings meet safety codes. The main difference lies in terminology used by different regions or jurisdictions, but both roles require comparable certifications and work environments.

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

To thrive as a Building Code Inspector, you need expertise in construction practices, building codes, and safety regulations, typically backed by relevant certifications or a background in architecture, engineering, or construction. Familiarity with inspection management software and digital reporting tools is crucial, along with certifications such as ICC or state licensure. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help in identifying code violations and working with contractors or property owners. These skills ensure buildings are safe, compliant, and built to standard, protecting public welfare and minimizing legal risks.
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Code Inspector jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Building Code Inspector jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Code Inspector jobs in Tennessee? For Building Code Inspector jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Code Inspector jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Building Code Inspector jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Building Code Inspector jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Building Code Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Building Code Inspector jobs in TN? For Building Code Inspector jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Building Code Inspector job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,416 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
FIRE & BUILDING CODE INSPECTOR 1* - 06092026-78296

FIRE & BUILDING CODE INSPECTOR 1* - 06092026-78296

Tennessee State Government

Memphis, TN • On-site

$43K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Information
State of Tennessee Job Information
Opening Date/Time
06/09/2026 12:00AM Central Time
Closing Date/Time
06/22/2026 11:59PM Central Time
Salary (Monthly)
$3,631.00
Salary (Annually)
$43,572.00
Job Type
Full-Time
City, State Location
Crossville, TN
Department
Commerce and Insurance
LOCATION OF (2) POSITION(S) TO BE FILLED: DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE & INSURANCE, SHELBY COUNTY
Qualifications
Education and Experience: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree
Substitution of a Specific Associate's degree for the Required Bachelor's Degree: Graduation from an accredited college, university, or technical institute with an associate's degree in fire-protection engineering technology, fire science, engineering technology, and/or construction technology may be substituted for the required Bachelor's degree.
Substitution of Experience for Education: Qualifying full-time experience in one or a combination of the following areas may substitute for the required education on a year-for-year basis to a maximum of four years: (1) fire prevention or suppression, (2) engineering or architecture (3) reviewing architectural or engineering plans to determine compliance with fire and building safety codes (4) construction project management (5) arson investigation of commercial or residential building structures; (6) fire or building inspections or design for buildings under construction; or (7) any skilled work in drafting, carpentry, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, inspection; (8) or other related building maintenance or construction trades (e.g., experience equivalent to one year of full-time work in one or a combination of the above listed fields may substitute for one year of the required education).
OR
Graduation from an accredited college, university, or technical institute with an associate's degree and experience equivalent to one year of full-time work in one or a combination of the following: (1) fire prevention or suppression, (2) engineering or architecture (3) reviewing architectural or engineering plans to determine compliance with fire and building safety codes (4) construction project management (5) arson investigation of commercial or residential building structures; (6) fire or building inspections or design for buildings under construction; or (7) any skilled work in drafting, carpentry, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, inspection; (8) or other related building maintenance or construction trades.
Necessary Special Qualifications: Positions in this class must meet the following requirements: Possess a valid motor vehicle operator license.
Overview
Under close supervision, is responsible for fire and building codes inspection work of average difficulty; performs related work as required. This is the entry-level class in the Fire and Building Code Inspector series. An employee in this class inspects building structures for fire hazards and code violations. This class is flexibly staffed with and differs from Fire and Building Code Inspector 2 in that an incumbent of the latter functions independently at the working level.
*An applicant appointed to this flexibly staffed class will be reclassified to the next higher class in the series after successful completion of a mandatory one-year training period; inadequate or marginal performance during the training period will result in automatic demotion or termination.
Responsibilities
1. Trains to inspect and verify the installation and testing of fire protection and detection systems, as well as major building components like foundations, floors, walls, roofs, and mechanical and electrical systems, for compliance with state laws, codes, regulations, and standards.
2. Learns to conduct annual fire and building code compliance inspections and investigates complaints to determine violations.
3. Learns to inspect blasting sites to ensure compliance with laws and evaluates materials, storage, signage, and vibrations.
4. Learns to perform fire code compliance follow-up inspections and may testify under oath about inspection details.
5. Learns to interpret codes for external customers, explains violations, and recommends necessary changes.
6. Learns to review architectural and engineering plans for compliance and investigates complaints to determine potential violations.
7. Learns to obtain required fire safety certifications and conducts meetings on fire safety and prevention.
8. Learns to calculate building area and occupant load, monitors blasting vibrations, communicates with stakeholders, and gathers corrective action plans.
Competencies (KSA's)
Competencies:
  • Tech Savvy
  • Communicates Effectively
  • Decision Quality
  • Self Development
  • Interpersonal Savvy

Knowledges:
  • Customer and Personal Service
  • Design
  • Mechanical

Skills:
  • Mathematics
  • Systems Analysis
  • Time Management
  • Coordination
  • Reading Comprehension

Abilities:
  • Written Comprehension
  • Speech Clarity
  • Problem Sensitivity
  • Speech Recognition

Tools & Equipment
  • Personal Computer, Smart Phone, Electronic Devices, Telephone
  • Fax/Copy Machine, Printer/Scanner, Calculator, Camera
  • Flashlight, Decibel Reader, Tape Measure
  • Engineer and Architect Rules, Pitch Level, Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
  • Fire Safety Equipment, Personal Protectional Equipment

TN Driver Standards
State of Tennessee positions that may involve driving responsibilities require candidates to meet the following minimum driver qualifications:
  • A valid driver's license
  • For the past five years, the candidate's driver record must not have record of the following violations: driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, license suspension for moving violations, more than 4 moving violations.

Please include your Driver's License Information under the Licenses and Certifications section of your application.
**Agencies may allow an exception based on other factors.