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Building Inspector Jobs in Pasadena, CA (NOW HIRING)

The Chief Inspector has the authority and responsibility for coordinating, accomplishing, and supervising all inspection functions. This position will be involved directing and orienting Inspectors ...

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Building Engineer

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

Conduct and document regular, formal building inspections and follow through with corrective measures as needed * Identify and document any building problems or deficiencies that may affect building ...

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Conduct and document regular, formal building inspections and follow through with corrective measures as needed * Identify and document any building problems or deficiencies that may affect building ...

Building Engineer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$46.26 - $54.76/hr

Perform routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and repairs on HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems. Address and resolve building system malfunctions in a timely manner to ...

Showing results 41-60

Building Inspector information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$39.3K

$75.1K

$112.4K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Pasadena, CA is $75,136.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,900.00 and $88,400.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Inspector jobs in Pasadena, CA? The most popular types of Building Inspector jobs in Pasadena, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in Pasadena, CA? For Building Inspector jobs in Pasadena, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Inspector jobs in Pasadena, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Building Inspector jobs in Pasadena, CA are:
What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Building Inspector jobs? Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Building Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Pasadena, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,136 per year, or $36.1 per hour.
Combination Building Inspector I/II/III

Combination Building Inspector I/II/III

City of Santa Monica

Santa Monica, CA

$79K - $121K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Summary DEFINITION Performs the inspection of buildings and other structures; performs a variety of duties in the implementation of the Building and Safety Division plans, programs and services. SUPERVISION Works under the technical supervision of the Inspection Supervisor who outlines work assignments, occasionally reviews work in progress, and periodically reviews completed work. No supervision exercised.

Representative Duties Inspects building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical construction for compliance with construction codes, local ordinances and state laws. Verifies and approves corrected building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical construction. Interprets code requirements for members of the public and City employees.

Advises on necessary submittal materials, inspection and record requirements. Provides technical guidance to assigned staff on application, record and approval requirements. Reviews architectural, structural, disabled access, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy and green building construction drawings and reports for compliance with construction codes, local ordinances and state laws and approves corrected drawings for permit issuance.

Attends meetings with permit applicants for clarification of review comments and verification of corrections. Monitors construction progress on active permits. Follows established work practices to minimize expiration of permits without final approval.

Ensures that quality assurance requirements for special inspection and structural observation are followed during construction and proper records are provided and maintained. Gathers, interprets, and analyzes data for reports, studies, and recommendations. Investigates, resolves and responds to complaints, as assigned.

Makes referrals to appropriate departments and/or staff. Coordinates inspection related activities with other City departments and agencies, as necessary. Maintains and organizes all pertinent records and files in hard copy and electronic formats.

Issues permits for work. Keeps records in the computer tracking system and prepares correspondence and reports. Participates in the preparation of non-complying cases for prosecution and testifies in court, as necessary.

Performs other duties, as assigned. Requirements Knowledge, Abilities and Skills: Knowledge of: State of California Title 24 Building, Fire, Plumbing, Mechanical, Electrical, Energy, Green Building Standards and City of Santa Monica Municipal Codes. Reference and Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory Standards related to construction materials and equipment.

Principles, practices and methods of building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy and green building design and construction. Preservation techniques and the State of California Historical Building Code. State and local regulations related to construction permits including but not limited to:, asbestos and lead paint removal, air quality, CAL-OSHA safe work practices, licensing of design professionals and contractors, worker's compensation insurance, exterior noise standards, green building standards, and seismic retrofit and fire sprinkler requirements.

Municipal zoning and land use principles. State of California Title 25 Mobile Home Park regulations. Effective customer service techniques.

Ability to: Read and interpret architectural, structural, disabled access, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy and green building drawings and specifications and determine applicable building code requirements. Perform field inspections and identify violations of building, structural, disabled access, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy or green building codes and related ordinances. Make computations and analyses to check construction for conformance to the applicable code and acceptable standards of practice.

Review and evaluate material tests, special inspection and structural observation reports, and appeals for alternate methods of construction or equivalency of alternatives. Provide clear and understandable written responses related to inspection. Provide effective oral communication for clarification of inspection comments and related requirements.

Establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships with City employees and the public. Resolve conflicts and effect solutions to both technical and non-technical problems. Climb stairs, ladders and construction scaffolding.

Maintain balance on temporary construction elements. Provide effective customer service. Skill in: Using a personal computer and applicable software applications.

Working effectively with persons from diverse social, cultural and economic backgrounds. Education, Training and Experience: Level I: Graduation from high school or equivalent. Four years of recent, paid construction experience as a carpenter, plumber, electrician, construction superintendent, licensed general contractor or special building inspector or two years of recent, paid work experience performing standard building inspections.

Bachelor's degree in architecture, civil, mechanical or electrical engineering may substitute for the required construction or inspection experience. Level II: Graduation from high school or the equivalent. Two years of recent, paid work experience performing standard building inspections Level III: Graduation from high school or the equivalent.

Four years of recent, paid work experience performing standard building inspections. Special inspection experience may substitute for two of the required four years of standard inspection experience. Licenses and Certificates: Level I: Possession of a valid Class C driver license.

Certification in one of the following Residential or Commercial disciplines: Building, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Inspector or Special Inspector for Structural Steel, Masonry or Reinforced Concrete from the International Code Council. Level II: Possession of a valid Class C driver license. Certification by the International Code Council as a Commercial Building Inspector and possession of one of the following: Commercial Electrical, Commercial Plumbing, or Commercial Mechanical Inspector.

Level III: Possession of a valid Class C driver license. Certification by the International Code Council as a Commercial Building, Commercial Electrical, Commercial Plumbing and Commercial Mechanical Inspector. Supplemental Information HOW TO APPLY: Applicants must file a clear, concise and complete City Application along with any required supplemental application materials with the Human Resources Department by the filing deadline.

NOTE: You must submit a copy of your college level transcripts or diploma and copies of your certificates from the International Code Council with your application. Applicants who indicate receipt of college level coursework or degree from a foreign institution must provide United States credential equivalency verification along with a copy of your college diploma/transcripts. All materials must be received in the Human Resources Department no later than close of business on the application closing date.

Failure to do so will result in your application being disqualified. SELECTION PROCESS: All applicants will be reviewed and only those candidates determined to be most qualified on the basis of experience, training and education, as submitted, will be invited to participate further in the selection process. Testing may consist of the following: Oral Interview: 100% BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS: Candidates who have successfully completed all prior phases of the selection process will be subject to a thorough background investigation.

NOTE: If three or more qualified City employees apply and pass the examination, a promotional list will be established in addition to an open-competitive list. If fewer than three qualified City employees pass the examination, the appointing authority, in accordance with the City's civil service rules and regulations, can decline to use a promotional list, in which case a promotional list will not be established for this position. The City of Santa Monica is a progressive, inclusive and culturally-rich community.

As leaders in public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a highly-talented workforce where people of diverse races, religions, cultures and lifestyles thrive. Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and where their differences make a positive impact. The City is an equal opportunity employer and strives to build balanced teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law.

We aim to create a workplace that celebrates and embraces the diversity of our employees. Join us. Special assistance with the application and examination process is available, upon request, for persons with disabilities.

Call (310) 458-8246. TDD (310) 458-8696 (Hearing Impaired Only). Please note the request for reasonable accommodations must be made to Human Resources at least three works days prior to the examination.

WORKING CONDITIONS: Some work is generally performed indoors in an office environment. On occasion, work requires frequent inspections at construction sites, abandoned buildings, and other outdoor work sites, as assigned. Weekend and evening work is occasionally required.

Physical demands include standing, bending, stooping, crawling, lifting up to 25 pounds, climbing ladders and flights of stairs, walking, and sitting. Counter work and working in front of a computer terminal is also required. Exposure to dust, dirt, odors, noise, vibrations and other outdoor elements may be encountered.

For more comprehensive information, click HERE to access the Essential Functions Job Analysis for this job classification.