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Building Inspection Intern Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Building Inspection Intern information

See Portland, OR salary details

$9

$18

$27

How much do building inspection intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for building inspection intern in Portland, OR is $18.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a building inspection intern do?

A Building Inspection Intern assists professional building inspectors in evaluating construction sites, buildings, and structures to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal building codes and regulations. Their duties typically include accompanying inspectors on site visits, documenting findings, learning to read blueprints and plans, and helping prepare inspection reports. This role provides hands-on experience and exposure to building safety standards, construction processes, and inspection procedures. It's an entry-level position designed for students or recent graduates interested in a career in building inspection or construction management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a building inspection intern?

To thrive as a Building Inspection Intern, you need a foundational understanding of building codes, construction methods, and safety regulations, often supported by coursework or a degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with inspection tools, digital reporting systems, and software such as AutoCAD or GIS is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate inspections, effective collaboration, and compliance with safety standards, which are vital for public safety and the integrity of construction projects.

What are some common challenges faced by building inspection interns, and how can they overcome them?

Building Inspection Interns often encounter challenges such as grasping complex building codes, adapting to different construction sites, and effectively communicating findings to supervisors or contractors. To overcome these, it's helpful to study relevant codes ahead of site visits, ask questions during inspections, and observe experienced inspectors closely. Building confidence in documentation and reporting, as well as staying organized, will also support success and professional growth in this hands-on role.

What is the difference between Building Inspection Intern vs Building Inspector?

AspectBuilding Inspection InternBuilding Inspector
CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a relevant degree or certification, some experience preferredRequires certifications such as ICC or state licensing, with more extensive experience
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in training or learning phase, supervised by experienced inspectorsFull-time professional role, conducting inspections independently or with minimal supervision
Industry UsageUsed in training programs, internships, or entry-level positions within construction and building industriesEstablished role for qualified professionals responsible for inspecting buildings for code compliance

The Building Inspection Intern role is an entry-level position focused on gaining experience and training in building inspections. In contrast, a Building Inspector is a fully qualified professional responsible for conducting inspections independently. Interns typically work under supervision and are in the learning phase, while inspectors have the credentials and experience to perform inspections autonomously.

What are popular job titles related to Building Inspection Intern jobs in Portland, OR?

For Building Inspection Intern jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Building Inspection Intern jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Building Inspection Intern jobs in Portland, OR are:

Building Inspection Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Inspection Intern job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,459 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Civil Engineering Intern - 2027

KPFF Consulting Engineers

Portland, OR • Hybrid

Full-time, Internship

PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Company Description

About KPFF

At KPFF, we’re more than engineers—we’re a team of collaborators, problem-solvers, and innovators who thrive on designing creative solutions for projects of all scales.

With 1,500+ employees across 35 offices, we have the resources of a large firm, but each office runs independently with its own culture and specialties—meaning you’ll get the flexibility and feel of a small firm backed by the strength of a national leader.

Our Portland Civil + Survey office (with teammates in Eugene and DC) is home to 104 people, including 46 PEs and 4 PLSs. Fun fact: more than 25% of our staff are former interns!

Our Civil practice focuses on:

  • Site development, land use, master planning
  • Public utility and roadway infrastructure
  • Streetscape and green street design, innovative stormwater management
  • Bike and pedestrian pathways, parks, trails

Our Survey practice includes:

  • Boundary staking, topo surveying, and construction layout
  • ALTA/NSPS land title surveying
  • Drone missions and building inspections

We work on a wide range of projects, from schools, healthcare facilities, roadway and streets, and national parks to zoos, museums, and international developments, all with a focus on sustainable design.

But KPFF isn’t just about projects—it’s about people. We foster strong connections through team sports (indoor soccer, summer softball) and regular social events. Our culture is family-friendly, collaborative, and business casual, with plenty of opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

To be considered for this paid internship, please include a cover letter with your resume. All applications must be completed through this online process. [No phone inquiries, please]

Job Description

We’re looking for awesome students to join our 2027 Summer Internship Program in Portland, OR! Our internships run May–August or June–September (we’ll work with your school schedule). This is your chance to jump in, get hands-on, and see what it’s really like to work as part of a civil engineering team.

From day one, you’ll be using Civil 3D with support from our PE’s, EIT’s, and Civil Designers who are excited to help you learn the ropes. You’ll get to design, create plans, do research, and head out on site visits—no coffee runs here. Along the way, you’ll also take part in our Intern Training Program, attend KPFF-U learning sessions, and join vendor lunch-and-learns (yes, free food + learning!).

Our office operates on a hybrid schedule—you’ll be in the office 3 days per week (after onboarding), with the option to work remotely up to 2 days. Prefer to be in the office every day? That works too!

Qualifications

We’re looking for students who are ready to learn, collaborate, and grow:

  • Currently enrolled in a BSCE program at the junior or senior level, focusing on civil engineering
  • Available for the full 3-month internship
  • Able to work full-time (40 hours/week, Monday–Friday)
  • Pay: $25/hour
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Able to work well both independently and in a team
  • Organized and good at managing time

    Additional Information

    Compensation

    KPFF values the contributions of our interns and strives to provide fair and competitive compensation based on location and market standards. For this position, compensation includes:

    • Hourly Pay: $25.00 per hour
    • Overtime Eligibility: Interns are eligible for overtime pay for hours worked over 40/week at $37.50/hour
    • PTO: as a temporary employee, you are eligible for paid holidays and sick time
    • Benefits: transportation stipend, free gym access, social events, professional development opportunities, and access to networking events

    Culture

    At KPFF, Interns aren’t just observers—they’re part of the team. You’ll work on real projects, gain hands-on experience, and have the chance to bring your ideas to the table. We foster a collaborative and supportive environment where you’ll be encouraged to take initiative, ask questions, and learn from experienced engineers. Our team is excited to mentor you, share professional insights, and help you build the skills and confidence to launch your career in civil engineering.

    How To Apply: 
    Submit your application online, including a cover letter and resume.

    KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

    KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.