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Building Code Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Inspector

Highland Park, IL ยท On-site

$78K - $118K/yr

Perform field inspections of buildings and structures under construction, alteration, or repair for compliance with building, fire, mechanical, electrical, zoning, and land use codes. Verify ...

Fire Marshal

Geneva, IL ยท On-site

$108K - $152K/yr

Oversee fire inspections, new construction inspections, plan reviews, and fire code enforcement activities. Interpret and apply adopted fire, building, and life safety codes while working ...

... state, and local building and safety codes, as well as ASME standards and jurisdictional ... The inspector maintains thorough, accurate, and defensible inspection records in accordance with ...

Fire Marshal

Geneva, IL ยท On-site

$108K - $152K/yr

Oversee fire inspections, new construction inspections, plan reviews, and fire code enforcement activities. * Interpret and apply adopted fire, building, and life safety codes while working ...

Conduct site inspections to monitor quality, progress, and compliance with local safety and building codes, state and local specifications and project Special Provisions. * Ability to identify and ...

Perform additional fire and life safety inspections as per NFPA and local jurisdiction, C&W ... codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives as relates to building operations ...

Perform scheduled maintenance, repairs, and inspections of building systems; address service ... Familiarity with blueprints and code requirements * Ability to work after hours, weekends, holidays ...

Conduct site inspections to monitor quality, progress, and compliance with local safety and building codes, state and local specifications and project Special Provisions. * Ability to identify and ...

Inspect the entire facility daily for faults, including cosmetic issues, and take initiative to ... codes.Strong plumbing skills, including the ability to diagnose and repair leaks, clear clogs, and ...

New

Civil Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท Remote

$100K - $130K/yr

Evaluate building design, construction, and maintenance against applicable codes, standards, and ... inspections and client meetings * Combination of home office-based analytical work, field ...

Showing results 21-40

Building Code Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.9K

$66.4K

$99.5K

How much do building code inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for building code inspector in Chicago, IL is $66,355.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,100.00 and $76,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do building code inspectors make?

Building code inspectors in North Carolina typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. They ensure construction projects comply with safety and building regulations, often working full-time with some requiring state licensing or certification.

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 is a building code inspector?

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.

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.

Are building code inspectors in high demand?

Building code inspectors are generally in steady demand due to ongoing construction, renovation, and safety regulations. Employment is expected to grow as cities and states enforce building codes and require inspections, with certification and knowledge of local codes enhancing job prospects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Code Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Building Code Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Code Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Building Code Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Building Code Inspector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Building Code Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Building Code Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,302 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Property Maintenance Community Development Inspector

Village of Oak Park Illinois

Oak Park, IL โ€ข On-site

$29 - $43.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description
Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
To inspect residential and commercial occupancies to ensure compliance with the property maintenance code and other Village codes and ordinances; to coordinate the implementation of the Village's housing programs; to serve as a liaison between property owners and contractors; to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations; and to perform a variety of clerical and administrative duties in support of the Village's property maintenance program.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general supervision from the Neighborhood Services Supervisor.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES - Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential duties and responsibilities
  1. Perform property maintenance inspections of single- and multi-family residential and commercial buildings, as assigned.

  1. Perform inspections of community housing conditions including property maintenance code violations, residential code violations, abandoned house conditions, unpermitted construction work, changes of use, and other related problems.

  1. Issue notices of violations and citations; prepare documentation and evidence for adjudication and court hearings.

  1. Participate and assist in adjudication and court hearings; inspect community conditions including property maintenance and building maintenance.

  1. Ensure compliance with applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations.

  1. Research property ownership, land characteristics and occupancy status utilizing internal and external data systems, internet resources and County records, when needed.

  1. Manage a case load including maintaining electronic database files and creating reports regarding inspection activities and findings.

  1. Coordinate property maintenance efforts with other associated Village departments and provide accurate referrals to relevant assistance programs.

  1. Perform field inspections of housing units requesting housing program funding.

  1. Determine client eligibility for assisted housing program, including inspecting property and housing units, and verifying income and family composition.

  1. Perform initial eligibility inspections of proposed work; counsel property owners regarding loan procedures, contractor bidding, and elements of contracts.

  1. Prepare job specifications for rehabilitation, work write-ups, and cost estimates; provide documentation and feasibility for loan packages.

  1. Prepare, review, and approve construction contracts; evaluate in-house estimates and bids from contractors; facilitate final payments to contractors upon review and approval of rehabilitation progress.

  1. Conduct pre-construction meetings with contractors and homeowners to review scope of work, explain procedures, and negotiate costs; analyze contractor bid estimates; prepare construction contracts for signature.

  1. Conduct progress inspections under the housing program guidelines to ensure compliance with Village codes and ordinances; verify contract work; settle complaints between contractors and homeowners; process work order changes as necessary; process and disburse payments to contractors.

  1. Conduct final walk-through of rehabilitation housing units; issue notices of completions.

  1. Maintain program records and participant files.

  1. Respond to public inquiries and complaints in a courteous manner.

  1. Provide information within the area of assignment.

  1. Investigate and resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner.

Other important responsibilities and duties:
  1. 1. Coordinate and establish bidding and negotiations of rehabilitation contracts; assist property owners in contractor selection.

  1. 1. Conduct contractor workshops to establish criteria for performance standards; work with private and non-profit contractors regarding performance contracts with the Village.

  1. 2. Perform related duties and responsibilities, as required.

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
  • Property maintenance related codes and ordinances enforced by the Village, including the International Code Council's suite of building codes.

  • Applicable Village, State, and Federal codes, ordinances, and regulations related to building construction.

  • Basic principles and techniques of building inspection.

  • Basic principles of structural design and engineering mathematics.

  • Basic computer functions and techniques.

  • Accepted safety standards and methods of building construction for commercial, industrial and residential buildings.

  • Procedures, objectives, and performance requirements of various Village, State, and Federal rehabilitation programs.

  • Community Development Block Grant requirements.

  • Modern and complex principles and practices of building construction, materials and methods.

  • Housing Quality Standards under the assisted housing and rehabilitation programs.

  • Accepted safety standards and methods of building construction for single and multi-family housing units.

Ability to:
  • Ensure that best in class customer service is provided to both internal and external customers and also embrace, support, and promote the Village's core values, beliefs, and culture.

  • Perform housing inspection and enforce Village public health, safety, welfare, property maintenance, and residential codes.

  • Interpret and apply pertinent Federal, State, and Village codes and ordinances relating to building construction, building rehabilitation and property maintenance.

  • Apply technical knowledge and follow proper inspection techniques to examine workmanship and materials and detect deviations from plans, regulations and standard construction practices.

  • Provide advice on property maintenance issues and requirements for residential buildings.

  • Enforce Village codes and ordinances.

  • Make mathematical computations rapidly and accurately.

  • Operate a variety of office equipment including a computer in a safe and effective manner.

  • Work independently in the absence of supervisor.

  • Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

  • Negotiate disputes and differences wit owners, tenants, contractors and the general public.

  • Read and interpret building plans, blueprints, and specifications.

  • Prepare cost estimates and job specifications.

  • Work overtime as operations require.

  • Establish and maintain interpersonal skills in the workplace to effectively communicate and interact with others.
  • Maintain reasonable and predictable attendance

Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which may include the following:
  • Sitting for extended periods of time
  • Operating assigned equipment.

Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for:
  • Making observations
  • Communicating with others
  • Reading and writing
  • Operating assigned equipment

Requirements
Experience and Training Guidelines
Experience: Qualified applicants must have at least two years of increasingly responsible experience managing or supervising construction, commercial rehabilitation, building inspections, and/or review of building plans with regard to building or property code compliance. Experience as an inspector with a municipality is preferred. AND
Training:One (1) year of college-level or trade school course work in housing, property, construction or building inspections, and/or review of building plans with regard to building or property code compliance. Additional specialized training in construction technology, building inspection technology or related field is desirable. Equivalent to an Associate of Arts degree from an accredited community college with major coursework in construction technology, building inspection, business management, drafting or a related field is preferred. AND
License or Certificate: Possession of an appropriate, valid Illinois driver's license is required. Possession of an appropriate ICC certification as a Property Maintenance and Housing Inspector is a condition of employment and must be obtained within six months of the hire date. Failure to obtain such certification within the six-month period shall be grounds for termination. AND
Lead Risk Assessment Training: Employees are required, as a condition of employment within nine (9) months from the date of hire, to successfully complete a Lead Paint Abatement Supervisor course accredited by the Illinois Department of Public Health.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Travel from site to site in residential or commercial environment; work in inclement weather conditions; work in office and inspection site environments; exposure to dust and noise; some climbing, stooping, light lifting and inspecting in confined areas; and significant walking on a daily basis.
Diversity Equity & Inclusion Statement
The Village of Oak Park commits itself to diversity, equity and inclusion by recognizing that creating a mutually respectful, multicultural and equitable environment does not happen on its own, it must be intentional. This includes providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, military or veteran status or any other characteristics.