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Building Inspector Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Chief Inspector

Columbia, SC · On-site

$37.50 - $50/hr

Knowledge of building codes and zoning ordinances * Demonstrated leadership skills, with the ... Ability to coordinate workload of inspection project staff with the willingness to train ...

Field Inspector

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

... building successful careers in sales. We're a $20M+ residential roofing company , ranked #93 on the ... The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ...

... building successful careers in sales. We're a $20M+ residential roofing company , ranked #93 on the ... The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ...

Field Inspector

Lugoff, SC · On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

... building successful careers in sales. We're a $20M+ residential roofing company , ranked #93 on the ... The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ...

Field Inspector

Columbia, SC · On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

... building successful careers in sales. We're a $20M+ residential roofing company , ranked #93 on the ... The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ...

Field Inspector

Lexington, SC · On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

... building successful careers in sales. We're a $20M+ residential roofing company , ranked #93 on the ... The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ...

... building successful careers in sales. We're a $20M+ residential roofing company , ranked #93 on the ... The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ...

Field Inspector

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

... building successful careers in sales. We're a $20M+ residential roofing company , ranked #93 on the ... The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ...

Field Inspector

Lugoff, SC · On-site

$40K - $70K/yr

... building successful careers in sales. We're a $20M+ residential roofing company , ranked #93 on the ... The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ...

... building successful careers in sales. We're a $20M+ residential roofing company , ranked #93 on the ... The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ...

... building successful careers in sales. We're a $20M+ residential roofing company , ranked #93 on the ... The Role As a Field Inspector , you'll work in residential neighborhoods identifying homes that may ...

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Building Inspector information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$33.3K

$63.7K

$95.3K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Columbia, SC is $63,724.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $74,900.00 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 popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC? For Building Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Building Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Building Inspector jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Building Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Columbia, SC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,724 per year, or $30.6 per hour.
COMMERCIAL BUILDING INSPECTOR

COMMERCIAL BUILDING INSPECTOR

City of Columbia

Columbia, SC • On-site

$57K - $73K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description This position inspects new construction and alterations of commercial, residential and other structureswithin the City for compliance with building codes and related regulations, and performs related work as assigned. Explains, interprets and provides guidance regarding applicable codes and compliance requirements to contractors, engineers, architects, developers, property owners and others. The incumbent works within a general outline of work to be performed, and develops work methods and sequences under general supervision.

The work is considered light and involves walking or standing most of the time and involves exerting up to 20 pounds of force on a recurring basis, or skill, adeptness and speed in the use of fingers, hands or limbs on repetitive operation of mechanical or electronic office or shop machines or tools within moderate tolerances or limits of accuracy. The work requires the following physical abilities to perform the essential job functions: balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, feeling, fingering, grasping, handling, hearing, mental acuity, pulling, pushing, speaking, standing, talking, visual acuity, and walking. Work environment may involve exposure to dusts and pollen, extreme heat and/or cold, wet or humid conditions, fumes and/or noxious odors, toxic / caustic chemicals, traffic, electrical shock, heights, disease/pathogens; and spends time working in an environment where errors can lead to significant physical or mental consequences for one's self and others.

Essential Job Functions Schedules and inspects new construction, alterations and repairs of residential, commercial and other structures to ensure structural safety and compliance with building codes; Inspects existing structures for compliance with life safety, mechanical, electrical and plumbing codes in order for business licenses to be issued; Prepares inspection reports; prepares and issues notices of correction and stop work orders as necessary; Reports unsafe buildings because of structural weakness or potential fire hazard; Inspects fire-damaged buildings; Explains, interprets and provides guidance regarding applicable codes and compliance requirements to contractors, engineers, architects, developers, property owners and others; Follows up on each case to verify corrections have been made to comply with codes; issues uniform ordinance summonses and prepares cases for prosecution in the event of non-compliance; testifies in court as necessary; Participates in community services team efforts; Maintains a variety of logs and records related to inspection and enforcement activities; Maintains assigned vehicles and equipment; Receives and responds to inquiries, concerns, complaints and requests for assistance regarding areas of responsibility; Meets with the public and staff to coordinate essential tasks, related expected requirements and discuss relevant issues; Performs general clerical work as required, including preparing reports and correspondence, entering and retrieving computer data, copying and filing documents, answering the telephone, attending meetings, etc.; Provides training of other inspectors as assigned; Attends training, conferences, meetings, etc., to enhance job knowledge and skills and maintain certifications; and Performs other related duties as assigned. Qualifications MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK: High school diploma or GED; Four (4) years of relevant prior experience; Valid South Carolina Class "D" Driver's License; Certified or be able to be certified within one (1) year from date of hire or promotion by the International Codes Council as a Commercial Building Inspector (B2) and two additional certification (Plumbing P2, Mechanical M2 or Electrical E2) within 2 years of date of hire. Preference to obtain four certification for Combination Building Inspector status

Must be registered with SCLLR within 30 days of hire. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of basic algebra involving variables and formulas and/or basic geometry involving plane and solid figures, circumferences, areas and volumes, and/or computing discounts and interest rates; Knowledge of personal computer equipment with skill in the use of Microsoft Office 2016 preferred, utilizing the e-mail, word processing and spreadsheet software programs; Ability to gather, organize, analyze, examine or evaluate data or information and may prescribe action based on such data or information; Ability to provide information, guidance or assistance to people to directly facilitate task accomplishment; may give directions or assignments to helpers or assistants; Ability to handle or use machines, tools or equipment requiring brief instruction or experience, such as computers for data entry, fax machines, copiers, telephones or similar equipment; may service office machines, including adding paper and changing toner; Ability to perform skilled work involving rules/systems with almost constant problem-solving; Ability to read technical instructions, procedures, manuals and charts to solve practical problems; composing routine reports and specialized reports, forms and business letters with proper format; speaking compound sentences using normal grammar and word form; Ability to perform specialized technical or entry-level professional work requiring general understanding of operating policies and procedures and their application to problems not previously encountered; application of specialized technical or professional principles and practices or the use of a wide range of administrative methods in the solution of problems; requires normal attention with short periods of concentration for accurate results and occasional exposure to unusual pressure; and Ability to guide others, requiring frequent decisions affecting co-workers and others who depend on the service or product; works in a somewhat fluid environment with rules and procedures but with many variations from the routine.