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Building Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

We strive to continually improve building energy efficiency and therefore, the quality of homes and ... This will include visual inspections of materials, data collection and visual observation of energy ...

We strive to continually improve building energy efficiency and therefore, the quality of homes and ... This will include visual inspections of materials, data collection and visual observation of energy ...

We strive to continually improve building energy efficiency and therefore, the quality of homes and ... This will include visual inspections of materials, data collection and visual observation of energy ...

We strive to continually improve building energy efficiency and therefore, the quality of homes and ... This will include visual inspections of materials, data collection and visual observation of energy ...

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Building Inspector information

See Virginia salary details

$35.7K

$68.3K

$102.1K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Virginia is $68,290.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $80,300.00 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.

How to become a building inspector?

To become a building inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant work experience in construction or building trades, and must obtain state-specific certification or licensing. This often involves passing written exams and demonstrating knowledge of building codes, safety standards, and inspection procedures.

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.

How much do building inspectors make?

Building inspectors in Pennsylvania typically earn an average annual salary of around $60,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $45,000 to $75,000 depending on experience, certifications, and location. They often need knowledge of building codes, inspection tools, and may require state licensing or certification to perform their duties effectively.

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 is required to become a building inspector?

To become a building inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant work experience in construction or building trades, and often must obtain state or local certification or licensing. Many inspectors also pursue post-secondary education or training in building codes, construction management, or related fields, and must stay current with evolving building regulations and standards.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

Building inspectors with specialized skills, such as commercial or industrial inspectors, tend to earn higher salaries due to the complexity and scale of their inspections. Additionally, inspectors with advanced certifications, experience, or those working in high-demand regions often have higher earning potential.
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Inspector jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Building Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Building Inspector jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Building Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Building Inspector jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Building Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in VA? For Building Inspector jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Building Inspector II

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Universal Engineering Sciences rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

326th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
At UES, we're a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose-to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.
Position Overview
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Building Inspector II to perform independent and complex building inspections, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards. In this role, the Building Inspector II will be responsible for conducting advanced inspections, providing technical guidance to junior inspectors, and collaborating with project managers, contractors, and regulatory agencies to uphold compliance and quality standards.
This role requires technical expertise, strong decision-making abilities, and problem-solving skills in the field. The ideal candidate has a keen eye for detail, a deep understanding of building codes, and the ability to effectively enforce regulations while maintaining strong professional relationships.
Responsibilities
  • Perform structural building inspections for residential and commercial properties at various stages of construction, repair, remodeling, or expansion to ensure structural integrity and compliance with local, state, and federal building codes and ordinances.
  • Conduct specialized inspections related to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP), as licensed, ensuring compliance with applicable codes and safety regulations.
  • Review and interpret construction plans, blueprints, permits, and engineering reports to verify compliance with approved designs, geotechnical findings, and regulatory requirements.
  • Identify and document code violations, safety concerns, and areas requiring corrective action, providing clear guidance and recommendations to contractors, engineers, and project managers.
  • Conduct follow-up inspections to verify corrective actions have been implemented and that final compliance has been achieved.
  • Investigate complaints, structural concerns, and potential code violations, determining necessary corrective measures and making recommendations to stakeholders.
  • Prepare and present detailed inspection reports, including observations, diagrams, photos, and compliance recommendations, ensuring accuracy and clarity for internal teams, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
  • Maintain clear and timely communication with field supervisors, dispatching teams, and project stakeholders, providing real-time updates on job status, locations, and site-specific concerns.
  • Assist in reviewing permit applications and project documentation, ensuring completeness and accuracy before inspections.
  • Ensure project compliance with regulatory standards, quality requirements, and deadline expectations, working closely with project teams to resolve issues as they arise.
  • Adhere to all safety protocols and job site regulations, ensuring compliance with OSHA, UES, and client-specific safety standards, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Stay up to date with evolving building codes, safety regulations, construction material standards, and industry best practices, participating in ongoing training and certification programs as required.
  • Operate and maintain a company-assigned motor vehicle, ensuring reliability for fieldwork through scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.
  • Complete daily reports, time records, and inspection data in accordance with company policy, ensuring accurate documentation and timely submission.
  • May be responsible for mentoring and training junior building inspectors and new team members.
  • Be available to work flexible shifts, including varying schedules, weekends, and evenings, as required to meet project demands and client needs.
  • Travel to project sites as needed, often across varying terrains and environmental conditions, to conduct inspections and provide technical assessments.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support project goals and company initiatives.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent with 5+yrs of experience required.
  • Building Inspector License is required.
  • Certifications in mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), or plans examination (such as ICC, IAPMO, or equivalent) preferred; willingness to obtain additional certifications is encouraged.
  • Experience conducting field inspections in active construction environments, with the ability to navigate uneven terrain, climb ladders, and access confined spaces as needed.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of construction methods, materials, and building codes, with the ability to apply regulatory standards to inspections and compliance reviews.
  • Proficiency in using inspection-related technology, including Microsoft Office Suite, Field Data Collection (FDC) software, and mobile-based reporting tools.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and analyze blueprints, construction plans, specifications, technical manuals, and reports, ensuring compliance with approved designs and regulatory requirements.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and time management skills, with a high level of attention to detail to ensure accuracy and thorough documentation.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare professional reports, issue compliance notices, and interact effectively with contractors, engineers, project managers, and municipal officials.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, exercising sound judgment while also collaborating effectively with teams to ensure project success.
  • Commitment to safety protocols and regulatory compliance, ensuring adherence to OSHA, UES, and client-specific safety standards, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record and ability to travel to multiple job sites as needed.
  • Flexibility to travel within the designated region as required to support inspections, compliance efforts, and business operations.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional weekends and evenings, based on project needs and client demands.

Preferred Qualifications
REQUIRED: MEP certifications.
#LI-MD1
Travel Requirements
  • This position requires fieldwork travel up to 70% of the time, sometimes at short notice, to support business objectives and client engagements.
  • Travel will be to job sites, working invarious outdoor conditions, and adhering to company safety protocols.

Physical Demands & Work Environment
This position primarily works in an outdoor work environment, regularly exposed to varying field conditions, including:
  • Sites that may not be accessible by vehicle, requiring travel on foot through wetlands, swamps, grasslands, fields, and other uneven or rugged terrain with natural and man-made obstacles such as sand, brush, and debris.
  • Moderate to loud noise levels, common in active construction and industrial environments.
  • Exposure to environmental elements including dirt, dust, sun, heat, humidity, and adverse weather conditions.
    The physical requirements for this position may include and are not limited to:
  • Ability to stand, walk, drive, and operate equipment for extended periods.
  • Frequent use of hands and arms for typing, handling tools, and operating equipment.
  • Ability to bend, twist, reach, stoop, pull, kneel, climb, balance, lift, carry, and push as required for fieldwork and inspections.
  • Ability to speak and hear effectively to communicate in noisy environments and with project teams.
  • Ability to use your senses to see (including close, distant, and peripheral vison, depth vision, and ability to focus) smell, hear, touch (use hands to reach climb or balance, crouch, stoop, crawl, kneel and sit).

EEO Statement
UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here

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About Universal Engineering Sciences

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Universal Engineering Sciences, based in Orlando, FL, US, is a reputable name in the field of geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, construction materials testing, and inspection services. With an impressive industry presence of over six decades since its establishment in 1964, Universal Engineering Sciences specializes in providing engineering consulting services that effectively address multiple civil, structural, and geotechnical challenges. Their extensive service portfolio includes environmental assessments, field testing services, laboratory testing services, and quality control consulting, among others. As a stalwart advocate of integrity, excellence, service, and people, Universal Engineering Sciences takes pride in delivering exceptional services that realize their mission of setting industry standards through technical superiority and efficient communication.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Orlando, FL, US

Year founded

1964

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