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Building Inspector Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

City of Elmhurst

Building Inspector

Elmhurst, IL

City of Elmhurst Employment Opportunity Building Inspector Position Summary Plans, organizes, and administers comprehensive planning and zoning program to provide current and long-range planning ...

City of Elmhurst, IL

Building Inspector

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$38.94 - $58.41/hr

City of Elmhurst Employment Opportunity Building Inspector Position Summary Plans, organizes, and administers comprehensive planning and zoning program to provide current and long-range planning ...

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

$30 - $40/hr

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 ...

Village of Tinley Park

Building Official

Tinley Park, IL

$113K - $159K/yr

The team consists of 2 building inspectors, 3 code compliance officers, health and consumer protection officer, building permit coordinator, 3 building permit technicians, planning manager, senior ...

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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 Jun 30, 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.

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.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,958 per year, or $34.1 per hour.
Building Inspector

Building Inspector

City of Elmhurst

Elmhurst, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

City of Elmhurst
Employment Opportunity
Building Inspector
Position Summary
Plans, organizes, and administers comprehensive planning and zoning program to provide current and long-range planning services.
Essential Functions
  • Inspects new and existing industrial, commercial and/or residential properties, and/or other building and construction for conformance to codes, regulations, plans, specifications and standards.
  • Confers with and provides information to developers, engineers, architects, property owners and others regarding code requirements and alternatives and City policies and procedures wherever possible, resolves complaints and problems.
  • Investigates complaints of existing buildings to determine appropriate usage and if hazardous or life safety conditions exist.
  • Reviews plans and specifications during inspections for buildings and related construction involving installation, remodeling, replacement and repair for use in performance of inspections.
  • Documents and maintains accurate records of inspections, actions taken and regulatory efforts; prepares written reports and correspondence and issues notices to correct code violations.
  • Collects and maintains documentary evidence in regard to non-compliant cases for use in court; testifies in court as required.
  • Develops and maintains knowledge of construction technology, methods and materials; updates code knowledge through regular training sessions.
  • Contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the unit's service to its customers by offering suggestions and directing or participating as an active member of a team.
  • Organizes own work, sets priorities and meets critical deadlines; ensures that such deadlines are met by other staff.
  • Demonstrates courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with public and staff; acts in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.
  • Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this role.
Qualifications
  • Two years of college-level course work in construction inspection or technology, pre-engineering or a field related to the work or completion of a recognized apprenticeship in a recognized trade; AND two years of journey-level experience as a building inspector at a public entity; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by Human Resources.
  • Illinois driver’s license.
  • ICC Certification as a 1 amp; 2 Family Dwelling Inspector amp; ICC Building Inspector Certification.
  • Mobility to work in an office setting, use standard office equipment and stamina to sit for extended periods of time; strength to lift and carry up to 10 pounds; ability to climb ladders of various heights, while performing inspection functions; vision to read printed materials; and hearing and speech to communicate in person or over the telephone.
  • Work is performed primarily outside in the field throughout the city. Duties involve performance on construction sites under adverse weather conditions, exposure to electrical currents, and frequent travel.
Required Knowledge and Skills
  • Principles, practices codes and regulations related to building inspection.
  • Concepts, materials and terminology related to building construction.
  • Applicable codes and regulations.
  • Computer applications related to the work.
  • Business and engineering mathematics.
  • Standard office practices and procedures, including filing and the operation of standard office equipment.
  • Record keeping principles and practices; correct business English, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
  • Techniques for working collaboratively with the public, in person and over the telephone.
  • Procedures for documenting inspections, correcting violations and carrying through on court procedures as required.
  • Geography of the City.
  • Interpreting and applying appropriate methods, practices, procedures, codes and regulations to building inspection.
  • Explaining codes, regulations and procedures to engineers, architects, developers, property owners and the public.
  • Conducting harmonious discussions with all personnel contacted in the course of performing duties and persuading them of desired courses of action.
  • Performing residential and basic commercial inspections.
  • Document inspections and follow through with code violation procedures.
  • Reading and interpreting plans and specifications.
  • Preparing clear and concise reports, correspondence and other written materials.
  • Organizing and prioritizing work and meeting critical deadlines.
  • Understanding and following oral and written directions.
  • Maintaining accurate records and files.
  • Enforcing laws, ordinances and regulations with firmness, tact and impartiality.
  • Using tact, discretion, initiative and independent judgment within established guidelines.
  • Composing correspondence independently or from brief instructions.
  • Contributing effectively to the accomplishment of team or work unit goals, objectives and activities.
  • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work.
Salary amp; Benefits
Salary: $38.94 - $58.41/hour DOQ. Benefits: Includes medical, dental, vision and life insurance (City contributes annually half the cost of the deductible to employee HSA), tuition reimbursement, paid time off, amp; participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).
Interested, qualified candidates are asked to submit a completed application and resume online. Offers of employment are subject to successful completion of background check, drug screen, and physical. Applications will be accepted through Monday, July 6, 2026.
The City of Elmhurst is an equal opportunity employer.

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