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Building Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Under general direction, the Deputy Building Official performs complex supervisory and technical to assist in managing the Building Inspections Department by administering and enforcing the Virginia ...

Building Official

Stafford, VA · On-site

$111K - $177K/yr

Oversees the building permitting, plan review and inspections for Stafford County to ensure compliance with the requirements of the VUSBC and related codes; coordinates work with county staff and ...

Building Official

Stafford, VA · On-site

$111K - $177K/yr

Work includes daily oversight and supervision of building permitting, plan review and inspection functions for all building-related activities and operations within the Department of Development ...

Building Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$38 - $44/hr

Accountable for infrastructure systems uptime, monitoring critical systems within tolerances, frequent building inspections while providing reliable service delivery to colocation customers.

Building Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Accountable for infrastructure systems uptime, monitoring critical systems within tolerances, frequent building inspections while providing reliable service delivery to colocation customers.

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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 Jul 14, 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.

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.
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 are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in Virginia? For Building Inspector jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles 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:
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,290 per year, or $32.8 per hour.
Deputy Building Official

Deputy Building Official

Gloucester County

Gloucester, VA • On-site

$71K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Gloucester County (New Jersey) rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

539th of 692 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description Gloucester County's Updated Compensation Structure Hiring salary: $71,302-$89,128 Join a Community-Focused Career Opportunity Are you a dedicated professional seeking to make a meaningful impact within a community. Are you interested in local government and community development. If you prioritize values such as integrity, trust, respect, accountability, safety, and collaboration, we encourage you to consider this opportunity.

Gloucester County is pleased to present an exciting career opportunity for qualified professionals. Under general direction, the Deputy Building Official performs complex supervisory and technical to assist in managing the Building Inspections Department by administering and enforcing the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), Commercial and Residential International Building Codes (IBC), Virginia maintenance codes and County floodplain ordinance. Employee must exercise considerable tact, courtesy, and firmness in dealing with design professionals, contractors, property owners and the public.

The Deputy Building Official reports to the Building Official. Job Highlights Acts for the Building Official in the incumbent's absence. Administers USBC, Commercial and Residential IBC, Virginia maintenance codes, and County floodplain ordinance; supervises enforcement by inspectors; determines compliance of construction; investigates complaints.

Conducts plan reviews of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings and structures as well as the associated electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trade plans. Assists the Building Official with departmental administrative matters, including staff recruitment, budgeting, and policy development. Advises design professionals and the public; interprets legal and code requirements and recommends compliance procedures to contractors and homeowners; answers questions in person and on telephone on Building Code requirements.

Reviews and determines code compliance for new industrial, commercial and residential construction; issues stop work orders, notices of violations, and/or orders to remove unsafe structures, obtains summons and appears in court to ensure enforcement of code requirements. Issues and reviews certificates of occupancy for residential, commercial, industrial and manufactured housing compliance. Performs field inspections to ensure compliance with the code requirements, approved construction documents, and manufacturer's specifications.

Supervises damage assessment teams in the event of storms, floods, or other natural disasters/catastrophic events. Serves as staff to the Local Board of Building Code Appeals (LBBCA); serves on various committees and groups as appointed or requested. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Possession of an Associate's or Technology Degree in Construction Management or Building Construction. Minimum of five (5) years of experience as a certified inspector in a local government building inspection division, with one (1) to two (2) years of supervisory experience. Special Requirements Possession of a valid driver's license; possess and maintain a driving record that meets established Gloucester County Driving Standards.

Pass a post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and may be subject to subsequent physical examinations to ensure he/she meets job-related physical requirements. Possession of Building Official certification from the International Code Council (ICC). Possession of Building Official certification from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) required.

Possession of the following professional designations: Plans Examiner, Combination Inspector, and Certified Floodplain Manager (Association of State Floodplain Managers-ASFM) required. To be considered for this position, your online application must include a cover letter, resume and three (3) professional references. Professional references are individuals who can attest to your job related knowledge, skills and abilities while working or in a volunteer capacity and are not family or personally related.

Professional references should include job title, company name and address, phone numbers and email address if available. Gloucester County is an Equal Opportunity Employer & Drug Free Workplace OUR Community: Gloucester County


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