ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Building Inspector Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

City of Kingsport

Building Inspector III

Kingsport, TN

$56K - $68K/yr

Purpose Performs technical inspection of all construction projects within the City of Kingsport to ensure compliance with appropriate building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical codes. Assists in ...

City of Kingsport, TN

Building Inspector III

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$56K - $68K/yr

Building and Codes Enforcement Opening Date: 06/24/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Purpose Performs technical inspection of all construction projects within the City of Kingsport to ensure compliance ...

CGI Inc.

Housing Inspector

Jackson, TN · On-site

Knowledge of local building codes, construction methods (new and rehabilitation) and housing ... Inspector's must be able to pay business expenses up front and then be reimbursed within a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBuilding Inspector JobsBuilding Inspector Jobs in Tennessee

Building Inspector information

See Tennessee salary details

$32.7K

$62.5K

$93.5K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Tennessee is $62,518.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $73,500.00 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.

Are building inspectors in high demand?

Building inspectors are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, renovation, and safety regulations across many regions. Employment for building inspectors is expected to grow as new building codes and standards are implemented, and inspectors often need certifications and knowledge of local building codes to qualify for jobs.

What exactly does a building inspector do?

A building inspector evaluates construction projects to ensure they comply with building codes, safety standards, and regulations. They examine structures during various phases of construction, review plans, and issue permits or violations as needed, often using tools like inspection checklists and requiring relevant certifications. Their work helps ensure buildings are safe, functional, and up to code.

What degree do you need to be a building inspector?

Building inspectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant post-secondary education such as an associate's degree or certificate in construction technology, architecture, or engineering. Many states also require passing a licensing exam and gaining work experience or certifications in building codes and safety standards.

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.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Building inspectors who specialize in commercial buildings, industrial facilities, or who hold advanced certifications tend to earn higher salaries. Inspectors with additional skills in areas like electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems, and those working in high-demand regions or for large organizations, also typically earn more.
More about Building Inspector jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Inspector jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Building Inspector jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in Tennessee? For Building Inspector jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Inspector jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Building Inspector jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Building Inspector jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Building Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in TN? For Building Inspector jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Building Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,518 per year, or $30.1 per hour.
Building Inspector III

Building Inspector III

City of Kingsport

Kingsport, TN

$56K - $68K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago

City Of Kingsport rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

461st of 668 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Purpose Performs technical inspection of all construction projects within the City of Kingsport to ensure compliance with appropriate building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical codes. Assists in enforcement of city codes, ordinances, and structures unfit for human habitation. The City of Kingsport does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulations.

Essential Functions Inspects residential, commercial and industrial projects throughout the various construction and/or remodeling phases for compliance to applicable city, State and Federal codes, regulations and/or ordinances including building, plumbing, electrical and gas; Checks location of structure or additions against approved plans for compliance to city zoning ordinance for setbacks; Inspects materials, workmanship, foundations, footings, and framing; Coordinates and schedules joint commercial certificate of occupancy inspections with Fire Marshal's office; Refers interpretative questions of codes to Chief Building Official for review and response to contractors and/or citizens; Enter inspection results, schedules inspections, completes inspection checklist in the field; Issues certificate of occupancy when project is completed; Attaches all necessary documentation to permit or code case; Maintains records and files of project status through community development software; Train and advise new inspectors; Oversee subordinates in the absence of the Chief Building Official; Review and approve residential plans for new construction, remodel, and additions; and Performs other duties as assigned. Qualifications Knowledge of the principles and techniques of building/construction inspection activities; Knowledge of all applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes and regulations; Knowledge of City of Kingsport codes and policies regarding zoning, environmental restrictions and other regulations; Knowledge of acceptable safety standards and methods of building construction for commercial, industrial and residential projects; Knowledge and ability to utilize computer programs essential to job performance to include table usage in the field; Skill in working effectively in an environment subject to quickly changing priorities, constant interruptions, frequent exposure to varying environmental conditions as well as hazards of in-process construction; Skill in determining if construction plans/specifications conform with code requirements; Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with contractors, city personnel, and the public. Education and Experience High school graduate or high school equivalent; and five years' full time construction work with responsibility as a foreman, inspection, superintendent or related background; OR Bachelor's Degree in Architecture, Building Construction or Engineering or closely related area and 3 years full time construction work with responsibility as a foreman, inspection, superintendent, or related background.

*Required Certifications are as follows: ICC Certification as Residential and Commercial Combination Inspector *Must possess a valid Driver's License.

What City Of Kingsport employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply