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Building Inspector Jobs in Arlington, VA (NOW HIRING)

City of Rockville

Codes Inspector

Rockville, MD

$67K - $111K/yr

Essential Job Functions BUILDING INSPECTOR Inspects residential and/or commercial construction for building, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, energy, life safety, health, fire protection, and on ...

City of Rockville, MD

Codes Inspector

Rockville, MD · On-site

$67K - $111K/yr

Essential Job Functions BUILDING INSPECTOR * Inspects residential and/or commercial construction for building, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, energy, life safety, health, fire protection, and on ...

PEG, LLC

Building Energy Inspector

Haymarket, VA · On-site

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 ...

PEG

Building Energy Inspector

Haymarket, VA

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 ...

PEG LLC

Building Energy Inspector

Haymarket, VA · On-site

$47K/yr

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 ...

PEG LLC

Building Energy Inspector

Manassas, VA · On-site

$47K/yr

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 ...

PEG

Building Energy Inspector

Manassas, VA

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 ...

STV

Buildings / Facilities Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$61K - $70K/yr

Verify compliance with applicable building codes, fire codes, accessibility requirements, and ... Inspect structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), and life-safety systems.

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All JobsBuilding Inspector JobsBuilding Inspector Jobs in Arlington, VA

Building Inspector information

See Arlington, VA salary details

$41.4K

$79.2K

$118.5K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Arlington, VA is $79,245.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,100.00 and $93,200.00 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 popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in Arlington, VA? For Building Inspector jobs in Arlington, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Inspector jobs in Arlington, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Building Inspector jobs in Arlington, VA are:
What cities near Arlington, VA are hiring for Building Inspector jobs? Cities near Arlington, VA with the most Building Inspector job openings:
Building Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Arlington, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,245 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Senior Building Inspector

Universal Engineering Sciences

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 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

410th of 441 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 highly experienced and technically skilled Senior Building Inspector/Building Inspector III to conduct complex building inspections and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards. This position plays a key role in reviewing large-scale projects, resolving disputes, and advising internal and external stakeholders on construction best practices and regulatory requirements. This role requires advanced technical expertise, strong decision-making skills, and the ability to work independently on complex projects.
The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of building codes, exceptional problem-solving abilities, and the ability to collaborate effectively with contractors, engineers, and project managers to ensure safe and high-quality construction. You will also have a strong leadership mindset who can coach, mentor, and train junior inspectors, sharing expertise and best practices to enhance team skills, efficiency, and overall inspection quality.
Responsibilities
  • Perform advanced structural building inspections, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems as licensed, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal building codes, zoning ordinances, and safety regulations.
  • Conduct comprehensive inspections of foundations, concrete slabs, framing, roofing, and other structural elements, identifying issues that may affect safety, quality, or durability.
  • Evaluate and determine necessary changes in plans and specifications, providing expert recommendations to contractors, engineers, architects, and project stakeholders to address compliance and structural concerns.
  • Identify and document code violations, potential hazards, and areas requiring corrective action, ensuring regulatory compliance and risk mitigation.
  • Lead investigations into structural concerns, complaints, and potential violations, analyzing findings and recommending appropriate corrective actions.
  • Prepare and deliver detailed reports, including compliance assessments, structural evaluations, and recommendations, ensuring all documentation is clear, complete, and submitted in a timely manner per company policy.
  • Ensure strict project compliance with regulations, quality standards, and deadlines, proactively addressing challenges to maintain project integrity.
  • Communicate effectively with dispatching teams, supervisors, and project managers, providing real-time updates on job status, inspection results, and field conditions.
  • Adhere to and enforce safety protocols, OSHA regulations, and company guidelines, ensuring a safe work environment through the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and compliance with site safety measures.
  • Operate and maintain a company-assigned motor vehicle, performing scheduled and unscheduled maintenance as needed to ensure reliability for fieldwork.
  • Coach, mentor, and train junior inspectors, sharing expertise and best practices to enhance the skills and efficiency of the inspection team.
  • 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 10+yrs of experience required.
  • Active Building Inspector License required (state-specific licensing as applicable).
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record and the ability to travel to job sites as needed.
  • Certifications in mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), or plans examination (such as ICC, NFPA, or equivalent) preferred, or willingness to obtain within a specified timeframe.
  • Excellent leadership skills with a proven ability to train, mentor, and support junior inspectors.
  • Advanced knowledge of construction methods, materials, and building codes, including structural, zoning, fire safety, and accessibility regulations.
  • Proficiency in reading, interpreting, and analyzing blueprints, construction plans, specifications, permits, technical manuals, and reports to assess compliance with codes and regulations.
  • Excellent technical skills in conducting inspections, identifying code violations, and making compliance recommendations.
  • Experience using inspection and reporting software, including Microsoft Office Suite and Field Data Collection (FDC) software or similar industry tools.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft detailed reports, official correspondence, and compliance recommendations, and interact professionally with contractors, engineers, project managers, and regulatory agencies.
  • Excellent time management, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to assess and resolve compliance issues efficiently.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating a high degree of professionalism, integrity, and accountability in inspections and decision-making.
  • Physical capability to navigate and work in various outdoor conditions, including active construction sites, extreme weather, uneven terrain, and confined spaces, while adhering to safety protocols.
  • Flexibility to travel within the designated region as required to support inspection schedules, compliance efforts, and project needs.
  • Commitment to professional development and continued education, staying current with evolving building codes, industry best practices, and regulatory changes.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and develop technical staff, fostering professional growth and team performance.

Preferred Qualifications
Required Certifications:
  • ICC B1, B2
  • ICC M1, M2
  • ICC P1, P2
  • ICC E1, E2
  • Fire 2
  • Commercial Energy Inspector

Travel Requirements
  • This position requires extensive domestic overnight travel 50-70% of the time, sometimes at short notice, to support business objectives and client engagements.
  • Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments.
  • Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on-site work.

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 lift and/or carry 35 to 75 lbs. up to 75 feet, involving regular repetitive motion.
  • 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).

#LI-MD1
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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