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Building Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

SAFEbuilt

Building Inspector

Northlake, IL

Building Inspector - Northlake, IL SAFEbuilt has the technical expertise to provide Community Development services, but the reason for our success is our people. Over 1600 experts make up our team ...

SAFEbuilt

Building Inspector

Northlake, IL · On-site

$30 - $37/hr

Building Inspector - Northlake, IL SAFEbuilt has the technical expertise to provide Community Development services, but the reason for our success is our people. Over 1600 experts make up our team ...

City Of Gary

Building Inspector I

Gary, IN · On-site

$38K/yr

Director of Building Status: Full Time Salary: $38,091.77 Perform a wide variety of tasks associated with technical building inspection and preliminary plan review; to enforce building codes ...

SAFEbuilt

Building Inspector Part Time

Glenview, IL

Building Inspector - Part Time - Cook County Area, IL *Up to 25 hours/week* *Potential for this position to turn into a full-time role* SAFEbuilt has the technical expertise to provide Community ...

UL Solutions

Building Inspector - Midwest

Northbrook, IL · Remote

$85K - $95K/yr

Related discipline plus generally five years' experience as an inspector, building contractor, engineer or other building related trades. * ICC Combo commercial Inspector certification * Certified ...

UL Solutions

Building Inspector - Midwest

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Involves travel and meeting and communicating with building owners and managers regarding codes, inspection procedures, and other issues pertaining to code compliance programs and services; responds ...

UL Solutions

Building Inspector - Midwest

Northbrook, IL · Remote

$85K - $95K/yr

Related discipline plus generally five years' experience as an inspector, building contractor, engineer or other building related trades. * ICC Combo commercial Inspector certification * Certified ...

B&F Construction Code Services

Be Seen First

Commercial Building Inspector / Plan Reviewer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

B & F Construction Code Services, Inc. -- Elgin, IL B & F Construction Code Services, Inc. is seeking a dedicated Commercial Building Inspector to join our team at our office in Elgin, IL. What We ...

City of Chicago

ASST CHIEF PLUMBING INSPECTOR

Chicago, IL · On-site

$12K/wk

Assists in prioritizing, scheduling, and assigning building plan reviews and plumbing inspections to supervisors and their staff based on complexity, urgency, and staff availability. * Interprets and ...

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All JobsBuilding Inspector JobsBuilding Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL

Building Inspector information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.1K

$71K

$106.1K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Chicago, IL is $70,958.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,600.00 and $83,400.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Building Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL? For Building Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Building Inspector jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Building Inspector jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Building Inspector job openings:
Building Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,958 per year, or $34.1 per hour.
Building Inspector

Building Inspector

SAFEbuilt

Northlake, IL

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

SAFEbuilt rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 451 rated business services

Job description

Building Inspector - Northlake, IL
SAFEbuilt has the technical expertise to provide Community Development services, but the reason for our success is our people. Over 1600 experts make up our team from across the country, with experience in a full range of professional services and skills. Each Team member values integrity, improvement, service, teamwork, and respect. These Core Values are the foundation of positive relationships among coworkers, our clients, residents, and anyone invested in the continued success of their community.
We are currently seeking a talented and experienced Building Inspector to join our team of professionals. This position offers great opportunity for dynamic, motivated self-starters to work on a variety of work assignments. You’ll be a member of our highly respected team of professionals with a full complement of resources to support you and exciting projects to keep you challenged.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Perform field inspections during various stages of construction
  • Read and examine plans and specifications when required
  • Report violations and maintain files/records
  • Perform other related duties as required
SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE:
  • Extensive knowledge of local building codes and current construction procedures/technology
  • Interpretation of codes in the field and ability to provide code compliant solutions
  • Must possess the ability to positively interact with the other staff members, the general public, contractors, governmental entities, and other clientele
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Good time management, organization, and attention to detail skills
  • Demonstrated ability to exercise initiative and a considerable amount of independent judgment
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:
  • ICC Residential Inspector certification required
  • Additional ICC certifications preferred​
  • Inspection experience required
  • Valid driver's license and a good driving record required
  • Spanish speaking applicants are a plus

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Mobility amp; Movement:

  • Frequent walking, standing, climbing, bending, stooping, crawling, or kneeling to conduct inspections.

  • Ability to climb ladders, scaffolding, or unfinished stairways to access roofs, attics, crawl spaces, and other elevated or confined areas.

  • Occasional lifting, carrying, or moving objects up to 25–50 pounds (e.g., inspection tools, plans, or small equipment).

Vision amp; Hearing:

  • Visual acuity sufficient to read construction plans, technical documents, and observe construction details.

  • Ability to detect safety hazards and defects through visual and auditory inspection.

    What SAFEbuilt employees say

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