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Building Inspector Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

City of Kenosha

Supervisor of Inspections

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$75K - $112K/yr

Must have at least one State of Wisconsin Building Inspector certification, or be able to obtain within one (1) year of employment. Experience in construction practices highly desirable. An ...

City of Kenosha, WI

Supervisor of Inspections

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$75K - $112K/yr

Must have at least one State of Wisconsin Building Inspector certification, or be able to obtain within one (1) year of employment. * Experience in construction practices highly desirable. * An ...

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All JobsBuilding Inspector JobsBuilding Inspector Jobs in Wisconsin

Building Inspector information

See Wisconsin salary details

$36.3K

$69.5K

$104K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Wisconsin is $69,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $81,800.00 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 Wisconsin? The most popular types of Building Inspector jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in Wisconsin? For Building Inspector jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Inspector jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Building Inspector jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Building Inspector jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Building Inspector job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in WI? For Building Inspector jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Building Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Wisconsin as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,525 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

BUILDING CONSTRUCTION INSPECTOR 3

City of Milwaukee Wisconsin

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Introduction
The City of Milwaukee is proud to employ a workforce that is committed to providing exemplary service to the City's residents. If you have a passion for being a part of an inclusive team of public servants, please consider the following opportunity.
Purpose
The Building Construction Inspector researches applicable codes and standards, inspects properties under construction to ensure compliance with State Codes and City Ordinances, and partners with stakeholders to manage and complete complex projects and developments.
Essential Functions
INSPECTION / CODE COMPLIANCE
  • Research commercial building codes, the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Codes (UDC), and ordinances to determine compliance.
  • Investigate and resolve referrals and service requests from residents, alderpersons, and other departments.
  • Identify faulty or inadequate construction methods and code violations during on-site inspections.
  • Draft and send legally enforceable orders to owners to correct conditions in cases of noncompliance.
  • Explain code violations to building and business owners and other industry professionals; advise on how to correct violations or construction-related problems.
  • Inspect structures for occupancy, based on the desired use and classification. Issue orders to correct conditions where non-compliance exists.
  • Provide technical guidance and consultation to other City departments and sections within DNS. Conduct team inspections as needed.
  • Inspect structures during construction, remodeling, or repair to ensure code compliance.
  • Inspect vacant buildings that are dilapidated, fire damaged, or in such disrepair as to be dangerous and unfit for human habitation for possible condemnation action.
  • Inspect condemned structures during remodeling to ensure code compliance.
  • Inspect demolition sites to ensure code compliance.

DOCUMENT REVIEW AND COURT ACTIVITY
  • Perform reviews using architectural and structural building documents for inspections of accessory structures, one and two-family dwellings, and commercial buildings; ensure compliance with design and applicable codes and standards.
  • Testify in municipal court for failure to correct violations of codes.
  • Prepare and testify at the Standards and Appeals Commission and Circuit Court for enforcement orders that are appealed.

We welcome qualified individuals with disabilities who are interested in employment and will make reasonable accommodations during the hiring process in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, as amended by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008.
Conditions of Employment
The Building Construction Inspector must be willing and able to do the following:
  • Perform physical activities that require walking, standing, climbing, crawling, crouching, stooping, kneeling, reaching, balancing, pushing, and pulling.
  • Exert up to 50 lbs. of force occasionally, and lift and move objects weighing 10-20 lbs. frequently.
  • Work outdoors in all types of weather conditions.
  • Tolerate various environmental conditions indoors and out (e.g., noise, vibration, dirt, oil, and pollen).
  • Wear approved clothing and maintain this clothing to comply with the departmental dress code.
  • Work outside standard business hours to meet departmental needs.

Minimum Requirements
  1. One year of experience working as a journey-level carpenter, journey-level mason, journey-level steamfitter, journey-level sheet metal worker, or construction superintendent, or contractor.
    ---OR---
    A bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, building construction, or a closely related field from an accredited college or university, PLUS one year of experience in building construction or a comparable field.
    ---OR---
    An associate degree in architecture, engineering, building construction, or a related field from an accredited college or university, PLUS three years of experience in building construction or a comparable field.
    ---OR---
    Two years of experience performing building construction inspections accompanied by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services certification as a Commercial Building Inspector, and/or both the UDC-Construction Inspector and the UDC HVAC Inspector.
  2. Certification by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services as a Commercial Building Inspector, UDC-Construction Inspector, and UDC HVAC Inspector within six months of appointment.
  3. Valid driver's license and availability of a properly insured personal automobile for use on the job (mileage reimbursement provided pursuant to Section 350-183 of the Milwaukee Code) at the time of appointment and throughout employment.

Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered; however, non-trades inspection code enforcement experience will be considered only for the timeframe it is accompanied by Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services certification as a Commercial Building Inspector and UDC-Construction Inspector, and only to a maximum of 3 years of the required experience.
NOTICE: Please do not attach your academic transcripts to your employment application. The hiring department will verify candidates' education as part of the background screening process prior to extending any job offers.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Other Characteristics
TECHNICAL
  • Knowledge of building construction practices and techniques.
  • Knowledge of mechanical and structural concepts as they apply to buildings.
  • Knowledge of inspection methods and materials used in building construction projects.
  • Knowledge of proper safety practices related to building structures and building construction.
  • Ability to recognize violations of applicable building and zoning codes.
  • Ability to read and interpret complex work-related documents.
  • Skill in reading and interpreting working drawings, plans, blueprints, and specifications.
  • Skill in preparing analytical reports on compliance with standards and codes.
  • Ability to review plans to ensure the design complies with the building and zoning codes.
  • Ability to perform inspections to ensure code compliance.
  • Ability to understand and perform complex calculations to determine measurements as they apply to buildings.
  • Ability to use and adapt to various electronic media, such as PC, tablet, laptop, and software programs.

COMMUNICATION AND INTERPERSONAL
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with other City employees, property owners, contractors, and public officials.
  • Ability to establish and maintain good interpersonal relationships.
  • Ability to work cooperatively and fairly with others whose backgrounds may differ from one's own.
  • Ability to provide excellent customer service knowledge and skills to serve the public positively.
  • Ability to coordinate projects amongst private stakeholders and various governmental partners.

CRITICAL THINKING AND PROFESSIONALISM
  • Ability to maintain accurate and detailed records.
  • Skill in planning and organizing work to be able to complete complex projects within deadlines.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and professionally in a team environment
  • Ability to be flexible, open to change, and calm under pressure.
  • Honesty and integrity.
  • Commitment to professional development in building construction and code enforcement.

Current Salary
The current salary range (PR 7JN) is $86,518-$107,986 annually, and the current resident incentive salary range for City of Milwaukee residents is $89,979-$112,306 annually. Appointment above the minimum is possible based upon level of experience and other qualifications and is subject to approval.
Benefits
The City of Milwaukee provides a comprehensive benefit program that includes the following:
  • Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) Defined Benefit Pension Plan
  • 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • Comprehensive Wellness Program
  • Onsite Clinic Services
  • Onsite Employee Assistance Program
  • Alternative Work Schedules
  • Long Term Disability Insurance
  • Group Life Insurance
  • Tuition Benefits
  • Paid Vacation
  • 12 Paid Holidays
  • Paid Sick Leave and other paid leaves
  • Flexible Spending Arrangement
  • Commuter Value Pass

For full details of the benefits offered by the City of Milwaukee, please visit https://city.milwaukee.gov/der/benefits
Selection Process
THE SELECTION PROCESS will be job-related and will consist of one or more of the following: an evaluation of education, experience, and/or responses to supplemental questions; a written or performance test, a structured interview, or other assessment methods. The Department of Employee Relations reserves the right to call only the most qualified candidates to structured interviews and performance examinations. Structured interviews may include written exercises. Selection process component weights will be determined by further analysis of the job.
INITIAL FILING DATE - The selection process will be held as soon as practical after the deadline listed above. Receipt of applications may be discontinued at any time after this date without prior notice. However, recruitment may continue until the City's needs have been met. Qualified applicants will be notified of the date, time, and place of the selection process components. Unless otherwise required by law, the City of Milwaukee will not provide alternative dates or times for the selection process. The applicant is responsible for attending all phases of the job selection process at the time and place designated by the City of Milwaukee.
Additional Information
  • Applications and further information may be accessed by visiting www.jobapscloud.com/MIL.
  • If you would like assistance completing an application, please contact the Department of Employee Relations at (414) 286-3751 or staffinginfo@milwaukee.gov.
  • The Department of Employee Relations is located in City Hall, 200 E Wells St, Room 706, Milwaukee, WI 53202.

Conclusion
EEO= 207
The City of Milwaukee values and encourages diversity and is an equal opportunity employer.

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