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Building Inspector Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Marion

Chief Building Inspector

Marion, IA · On-site

$75K/yr

Chief Building Inspector Position Position Open Until Filled JOB INFORMATION Job Title: Chief Building Inspector Department: Community Development Bargaining Unit: Non-Bargaining Reports to Position:

City of Marion

Chief Building Inspector

Marion, IA · On-site

Chief Building Inspector Position Position Open Until Filled JOB INFORMATION Job Title: Chief Building Inspector Department: Community Development Bargaining Unit: Non-Bargaining Reports to Position:

Bureau Veritas

A WORLD LEADER IN TESTING, INSPECTION & CERTIFICATION SERVICES Bureau Veritas offers dynamic ... Building Construction, Construction Technology, Heating Ventilating and Air Conditioning ...

City of Ankeny Iowa

Fire Inspector

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$84K - $113K/yr

... building plans and construction documents for fire code compliance (as assigned) Investigate fire and life safety complaints Maintain accurate inspection records, reports, and documentation Issue ...

Transwestern

Building Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

Inspect building systems including fire alarms, HVAC, and plumbing to ensure operation of equipment is within design capabilities and achieves environmental conditions prescribed by client. * Perform ...

Trans western

Building Engineer

Des Moines, IA

Inspect building systems including fire alarms, HVAC, and plumbing to ensure operation of equipment is within design capabilities and achieves environmental conditions prescribed by client. * Perform ...

City of Ankeny, IA

Fire Inspector

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$84K - $113K/yr

Review building plans and construction documents for fire code compliance (as assigned) * Investigate fire and life safety complaints * Maintain accurate inspection records, reports, and ...

Information Providers Inc.

Be Seen First

Insurance Inspector

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.50/hr

... identifying building materials of the risk. Upon completion all information collected will be ... and from inspections · iPhone or Android Smartphone · Windows Based Computer with access to ...

Information Providers Inc.

Be Seen First

Insurance Inspector

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $22.75/hr

... identifying building materials of the risk. Upon completion all information collected will be ... and from inspections · iPhone or Android Smartphone · Windows Based Computer with access to ...

WesleyLife

Building Maintenance

Atlantic, IA

$18 - $25/hr

Building Maintenance As a Maintenance, you'll play a key role in ensuring a safe, comfortable, and ... Conduct regular safety inspections and preventative maintenance. * Maintain grounds and assist with ...

WesleyLife

Building Maintenance

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Building Maintenance As a Maintenance, you'll play a key role in ensuring a safe, comfortable, and ... Conduct regular safety inspections and preventative maintenance. * Maintain grounds and assist with ...

Edgewater

Building Maintenance

Atlantic, IA

$18 - $25/hr

Building Maintenance As a Maintenance, you'll play a key role in ensuring a safe, comfortable, and ... Conduct regular safety inspections and preventative maintenance. * Maintain grounds and assist with ...

WesleyLife

Building Maintenance

Atlantic, IA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Building Maintenance As a Maintenance, you'll play a key role in ensuring a safe, comfortable, and ... Conduct regular safety inspections and preventative maintenance. * Maintain grounds and assist with ...

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All JobsBuilding Inspector JobsBuilding Inspector Jobs in Iowa

Building Inspector information

See Iowa salary details

$33.8K

$64.7K

$96.7K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Iowa is $64,698.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,700.00 and $76,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by building inspectors during site inspections?

Building Inspectors often encounter challenges such as managing tight inspection schedules, staying updated with evolving building codes, and effectively communicating compliance issues to contractors and property owners. They may also have to navigate difficult weather conditions or access hard-to-reach areas on construction sites. Successfully balancing these demands requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to resolve compliance issues efficiently.

What does a building inspector do?

A Building Inspector is responsible for examining buildings, structures, and construction sites to ensure they comply with local, state, and federal codes and regulations. They review plans, issue permits, and conduct on-site inspections at various stages of construction or renovation. Their main goal is to ensure the safety, structural integrity, and accessibility of buildings for occupants and the public. Building Inspectors may also investigate complaints, issue violation notices, and advise on necessary corrections to bring properties up to code.

Do you need experience to be a building inspector?

Building inspector positions typically require some prior experience in construction, architecture, or engineering, along with knowledge of building codes and inspection procedures. Many employers prefer candidates with relevant certifications or training, such as a state-issued license or certification from a professional organization. Entry-level roles may be available for those with related education and a willingness to learn on the job.

Are building inspectors in high demand?

Building inspectors are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, renovation projects, and the need for safety compliance. Employment for this role is expected to grow as building codes become more stringent and inspections remain a critical part of the construction process. Certification and knowledge of local building codes can enhance job prospects in this field.

What is the difference between Building Inspector vs Construction Inspector?

AspectBuilding InspectorConstruction Inspector
Required CredentialsState or local licensing, certifications in building codesSimilar licensing, often with additional construction-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentInspecting residential, commercial, and public buildingsMonitoring construction sites, ensuring compliance during building phases
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, private firms, construction companiesConstruction firms, government agencies, project developers

Building Inspectors primarily review completed structures for code compliance, while Construction Inspectors oversee ongoing construction projects to ensure standards are met during building. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their focus differs in timing and scope.

What is a building inspector?

A building inspector’s primary job responsibilities are to look at public buildings and ensure they are up to federal, state, and local codes. In this job, your duties are to look at the structural integrity, electrical wiring, water connections, and other aspects of the construction and make sure that everything works as it should and complies with all safety regulations. Inspectors have to know a variety of building disciplines and trades, or at least the laws related to them. For example, you have to know basic wiring codes and how to recognize a dangerous situation, such as broken or loose wiring, as well as general building hazards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a building inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Inspector, you need in-depth knowledge of building codes, construction practices, and safety regulations, typically backed by relevant certifications or formal education in construction or engineering. Familiarity with inspection management software, digital reporting tools, and sometimes licensing such as ICC certification is usually required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and impartial judgment are essential soft skills for ensuring accurate inspections and clear interactions with contractors and property owners. These skills and qualities are crucial because they help maintain safety standards, regulatory compliance, and trust in the built environment.
More about Building Inspector jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Inspector jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Building Inspector jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in Iowa? For Building Inspector jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Inspector jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Building Inspector jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Building Inspector jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Building Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in IA? For Building Inspector jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Building Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,698 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Chief Building Inspector

City of Marion

Marion, IA • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Chief Building Inspector Position
Position Open Until Filled
JOB INFORMATION
Job Title: Chief Building Inspector
Department: Community Development
Bargaining Unit: Non-Bargaining
Reports to Position: Building Manager
Location: City Hall
Overtime Status: Salary
FLSA Status: Exempt
JOB SUMMARY
Work involves supervision within the Building Inspection Division including but not limited to enforcement of Building, Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Code, Zoning Ordinance, and review of building plans and specifications, inspection of building construction, communication with contractors, general public Appeals Boards. General direction and review are received from the Building Manager, must exercise discretion and independent judgement in the day-to-day activities of the Building Inspection Department. Conducts inspections and enforcement of Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Zoning, Nuisance, Property Maintenance, Dangerous Building and other related codes and ordinances.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED
  • Assist in supervising, planning, directing, and coordinating Building Inspection Division inspections with regard to code compliance, under the general supervision of the Building Official.
  • Assist in assigning and directing the work of subordinates with the Building Inspection Department.
  • Conduct inspections and enforcement of Building, Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Codes, Dangerous and Abandoned Building Code, and other development-related codes and ordinances.
  • Check building plans to assure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances.
  • Coordinate with and support other city departments with regard to enforcement of Fire Code, Zoning, Ordinance, Sign Ordinance, Sidewalk/Driveway regulations and other development related codes.
  • Investigate complaints, and inquiries regarding inspection, enforcement policies, and activities and other related matters.
  • Provide after hours inspections as needed.
  • Assist in maintaining records of all inspections, conditions noted and corrected, prepare additional records and reports as required.
  • Participate in training of Department employees related to development code enforcement methods and administration.
  • Provide technical assistance and attend meetings of appeal boards and other meetings as required.
  • Perform other duties and related work as assigned and required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
  • Considerable knowledge of principles and practices of modern building code enforcement.
  • Considerable knowledge of construction principles and practices related to building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trades.
  • Six years' experience in building construction, construction trade, or code inspection. Candidates with a code inspection degree from an accredited university or trade school may qualify with three years of experience.
  • Must have or be able to obtain Commercial & Residential Building, Plumbing, Electrical, Mechanical, and a Plan Review Certification.
  • Ability to read and understand construction plans and specifications.
  • Ability to read, understand and apply Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances and other local codes.
  • Ability to prepare clear and concise oral and written communications.
  • Knowledge of the city's geography, including general soil and hydrological information as it affects building construction.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with contractors, general public, and fellow employees.
  • Ability to keep and maintain department records in an organized and orderly way.
  • Ability to perform mathematical calculations quickly and accurately.
  • Ability to use computers, including word-processing, spreadsheet, and specialized building permit/inspection software applications.

ESSENTIONAL FUNCTIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Physical ability to traverse variable terrain conditions not accessible by vehicle including but not limited to steep slopes, un-level grades, and heavily vegetated areas for the purpose of visual construction inspection.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, climb, and otherwise move about a construction site for inspections of construction work to assure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances.
  • Ability to bend, reach, climb, stoop and lift 40 pounds for filing and records retrieval.
  • Ability to read, speak, write and understand English to communicate effectively and professionally with fellow employees, contractors, Boards and the general public via telephone or face-to-face.
  • Ability to accurately observe construction work and conduct testing procedures to determine compliance with standards and ordinance requirements.
  • Ability to read and interpret regulations and ordinances governing construction of buildings and public works.
  • Ability to operate a telephone, calculator, and measuring devices.
  • Ability to work long hours outdoors occasionally under adverse weather conditions.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or equivalency required.
  • Considerable knowledge of principles and practices of modern building code enforcement.
  • Considerable knowledge of construction principles and practices related to building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing trades.
  • Six years' experience in commercial building construction, construction trade, or code inspection.
  • At time of hire, must have a minimum ICC Commercial certification or ICC's B3 Plans Examiner certification. These may be substituted with a Construction Management degree, or a Code Enforcement degree.
  • Must obtain the following ICC Certifications within one year of hire date:
    • Building Inspector Commercial (B2)
    • Building Inspector Residential (B1)
    • Residential Electrical Inspector (E1)
    • Commercial Electrical Inspector (E2)
  • Must obtain the following ICC Certifications within two years of hire date:
    • Commercial Plumbing Inspector (P2)
    • Residential Plumbing Inspector (P1)
    • Mechanical Commercial Inspector (M2)
    • Mechanical Residential Inspector (M1)
    • Building Plans Examiner (B3)
  • Must obtain the Certified Building Official (CBO) certification within three years of hire date.
  • Supervisory experience preferred but not required.
  • Must have a valid Iowa driver's license.

WORKING CONDITIONS
  • Works in an office environment
  • Works a standard 40-hour work week
  • May be required to work some overtime upon demand of workload

REQUIRED BACKGROUND CHECKS
  • Sex Offender Registry Check
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Drug Screening
  • Driving Record
  • Pre-Employment Physical

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