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Building Department Jobs in Needham, MA (NOW HIRING)

City of Medford

Building Commissioner

Medford, MA · On-site

$2.0K - $2.4K/wk

Oversees Building Department staff and operations. * Performs Building Inspections, zoning enforcements and applicable investigations. Inspects buildings, alterations to buildings under construction ...

AVTC Group

Building Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

... department, fire department, etc. • Assist the Sr. Engineer or Chief Engineer in the management of capital and special projects, including - compliance with building rules and regulations, and ...

Town of Andover, NA

Building Commissioner

Andover, MA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

T27008 Department: Community Development and Planning Opening Date: 08/17/2026 Closing Date: 9/13 ... The Building Commissioner oversees a knowledgeable team, guides responsible development, and helps ...

Town of Andover

Building Commissioner

Andover, MA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Under the general direction of the Town Manager and in coordination with the Department Head of Community Development and Planning, the Building Commissioner provides strategic, administrative, and ...

Town of Andover

Building Commissioner

Andover, MA · On-site

Under the general direction of the Town Manager and in coordination with the Department Head of Community Development and Planning, the Building Commissioner provides strategic, administrative, and ...

New

J&J Maintenance

Building Manager

Concord, MA

$78K - $85K/hr

Represents department on task forces or in meetings as needed. * Performs other duties as assigned. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES Supervises a small group (typically 2-5 employees) in a variety of ...

J&J Maintenance

Building Manager

Boston, MA

$78K - $85K/hr

Represents department on task forces or in meetings as needed. * Performs other duties as assigned. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES Supervises a small group (typically 2-5 employees) in a variety of ...

J&J Worldwide Services

Building Manager

Concord, MA · On-site

Represents department on task forces or in meetings as needed. * Performs other duties as assigned. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES Supervises a small group (typically 2-5 employees) in a variety of ...

American National Red Cross

Building Engineer

Dedham, MA · On-site

$101K - $108K/yr

The Building Engineer will maintain basic knowledge of structural systems, control systems, code ... department supplies, record and log maintenance, and coordination and submission of work orders.

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All JobsBuilding Department JobsBuilding Department Jobs in Needham, MA

Building Department information

See Needham, MA salary details

$30.5K

$106.9K

$161.2K

How much do building department jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for building department in Needham, MA is $106,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $130,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a building department?

A Building Department is a local government office responsible for enforcing building codes, issuing permits, conducting inspections, and ensuring that construction projects comply with safety and zoning regulations. They review plans for new construction, renovations, and demolitions to make sure they meet all applicable standards. The Building Department also provides guidance to property owners, contractors, and developers throughout the construction process to maintain public safety and community standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a building department role?

To excel in a Building Department position, you need solid knowledge of building codes, construction principles, and permitting processes, usually supported by relevant certifications or degrees in construction management or a related field. Familiarity with permit management software, inspection tools, and CAD or blueprint systems is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interacting with contractors, the public, and regulatory bodies. These skills ensure compliance, safety, and efficiency in managing building projects and municipal regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a building department, and how can these be managed on the job?

Professionals in a Building Department often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple permit applications, ensuring compliance with evolving building codes, and addressing concerns from contractors or the public. Managing these challenges typically involves strong organizational skills, effective communication, and ongoing professional development to stay updated on regulations. Collaborating closely with other departments and stakeholders helps resolve issues efficiently and ensures projects move forward smoothly.

What is the difference between Building Department vs Building Inspector?

AspectBuilding DepartmentBuilding Inspector
CredentialsVaries by jurisdiction, often includes building codes knowledge, certifications may be requiredTypically requires certifications such as ICC Building Inspector, relevant licenses
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, overseeing permits, codes, and regulations; field inspectionsPrimarily on-site inspections of construction projects
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal government departments responsible for building regulation enforcementGovernment agencies, private firms, or contractors conducting inspections

The Building Department is a municipal entity overseeing building codes, permits, and regulations, while a Building Inspector is a professional who conducts on-site inspections to ensure compliance with these codes. The Building Department manages policies and processes, whereas the Building Inspector performs the fieldwork to enforce them.

What cities near Needham, MA are hiring for Building Department jobs?

Cities near Needham, MA with the most Building Department job openings:

Building Department jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Department job openings in Needham, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,916 per year, or $51.4 per hour.

Building Commissioner

City of Medford

Medford, MA • On-site

$2.0K - $2.4K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Basic Function:
This Position is responsible for the planning, organizing and supervision of inspection work to enforce the provisions of the state building code and Chapter 22, Section 13A to ensure compliance with life safety, structural, light, ventilation, and other pertinent local bylaws; oversees the issuance of required permits applicable to building construction; reviews plan for zoning compliance. Administrative, technical and inspection work related to the enforcement and interpretation of the Massachusetts Building Code, local zoning ordinance and other applicable codes relating to building construction and design, all other related work, as required. This position requires regular travel throughout the Town to conduct inspections, investigations, and enforcement activities; a Town-owned vehicle is provided for official job-related use.

Responsibilities:
  • Oversees Building Department staff and operations.
  • Performs Building Inspections, zoning enforcements and applicable investigations. Inspects buildings, alterations to buildings under construction and upon completion to monitor compliance with the Massachusetts Building Code, local zoning ordinance, and other pertinent state and local regulations; inspects safety conditions of existing buildings. 
  • Serves as the Zoning Enforcement Officer; enforces Building codes, investigates complaints to ensure compliance with bylaws and building codes; responsible for enforcing the Massachusetts Building Code, zoning ordinances, flood plain regulations, and earth removal ordinance; enforces the requirements of special permits issued by the Zoning Board of Appeals or the Planning Board, and other applicable statutes, rules, and regulations. 
  • Responds to emergencies concerning buildings and natural disasters; on call 24/7.
  • Enforces occupant loads in commercial buildings. 
  • Conducts annual inspections for commercial businesses. 
  • Assists with inquiries from General Public, Town Departments, Fire and Police Departments.
  • Reviews plans for building construction or alteration for compliance with state codes, access regulations, local zoning ordinances and other applicable regulations. Reviews all building, electric, plumbing and gas and other relevant permit applications, special permits, and their proposed use for compliance with life safety, structural, light, ventilation, and all other local and state regulations. Reviews project plans for conformance to 780 CMR and zoning codes.
  • Conducts Life Safety for all residential and commercial buildings.
  • Responds to inquiries from property owners, banks, real estate firms, and the public to explain and interpret regulations and ordinance provisions; explains procedures and assists with completion of forms and applications; discusses construction methods and materials with builders, architects, engineers, and developers to ensure compliance with applicable codes and regulations. 
  • Maintains posted office hours adequate to serve the needs of the public. 
  • Performs administrative functions; issues building permits; coordinates inspections and appointments; responds to telephone and written requests for information. 
  • Maintains a daily log of inspections, applications issued, permits granted, approvals, and fees collected; provides monthly activity reports to the Town Administrator; attends meetings and hearings.
  • Collects signs not allowed or permitted on Town property.
  • Prepares annual departmental budget request, monitors spending. 
  • Performs other related job duties as required.

Education & Experience:
  • Bachelor’s degree in building construction, design, or related field.
  • 3 to 5 years of related experience.
  • Valid Class D Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
  • Mass State Building Commissioner Certification (Required).
  • MA Construction Supervisors License (unrestricted) (Required).

Beneficial: Municipal experience preferred.