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Building Inspector Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Sprinkler Inspector

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$23 - $38/hr

... building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more ... Inspectors are responsible for conducting routine inspections, testing, service, and preventative ...

Sprinkler Inspector

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

$23 - $38/hr

... building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more ... Inspectors are responsible for conducting routine inspections, testing, service, and preventative ...

Fire Protection Inspector

Portland, OR · On-site

$34.67 - $52.30/hr

Together, we're building a thriving planet. Buildings are a leading contributor to the climate ... The Inspector performs and conducts inspections, testing and maintenance on Fire Sprinkler and /or ...

Fire Protection Inspector

Portland, OR · On-site

$34.67 - $52.30/hr

Together, we're building a thriving planet. Buildings are a leading contributor to the climate ... The Inspector performs and conducts inspections, testing and maintenance on Fire Sprinkler and /or ...

Perform daily inspection of construction projects monitoring quality and adherence to building code requirements, construction drawings and project specifications. Inspections may cross multiple ...

Be Seen First

Monitor Building Automation Systems (BAS). * Preventative Maintenance (PM ... Conduct routine scheduled inspections to prolong equipment lifespan and prevent major breakdowns.

Perform daily inspection of construction projects monitoring quality and adherence to building code requirements, construction drawings and project specifications. Inspections may cross multiple ...

Perform daily inspection of construction projects monitoring quality and adherence to building code requirements, construction drawings and project specifications. Inspections may cross multiple ...

Special Inspector Perform special inspections in accordance with approved plans, specifications, and applicable codes. This role involves reading and interpreting construction documents, RFIs, and ...

New

We are building the most trusted and efficient digital marketplace with data solutions for sourcing ... Our Inspectors are the face of our company. They know a ton about cars, and love to talk about them ...

Field Inspector

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$1.5K/mo

Field Audit & Inventory Inspector (1099 Contractor) This position requires travel between locations. Quiktrak is seeking1099 Audit and Inventory Inspectors to perform field audit inspections in your ...

Field Audit & Inventory Inspector (1099 Contractor) This position requires travel between locations. Quiktrak is seeking 1099 Audit and Inventory Inspectors to perform field audit inspections in your ...

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Building Inspector information

See Portland, OR salary details

$38.2K

$73K

$109.2K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Portland, OR is $73,049.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,300.00 and $85,900.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Building Inspector jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Building Inspector jobs in Portland, OR are:
What job categories do people searching Building Inspector jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Building Inspector jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Building Inspector jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Building Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 12% Full Time, 70% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,049 per year, or $35.1 per hour.
Environmental Scientist - Entry to Junior

Environmental Scientist - Entry to Junior

Tetra Tech

Portland, OR • On-site

$79K - $104K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

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


Tetra Tech rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

336th of 357 rated engineering


Job description

The Opportunity
Tetra Tech is looking for a full-time, entry to junior level, Environmental Scientist Task Lead on the West Coast.   You can work from your home on the west coast or in one of our Tetra Tech offices on the west coast.

Position Summary
You will provide project coordination support on Tetra Tech Inc.'s multiple contracts for the United States Postal Service (USPS).  

Why Tetra Tech
At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges.  Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.  For over 60 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.  Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.  Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact
Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.  Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.


Essential Job Functions (Required)
The following duties are considered essential to the role.  They will be performed under the supervision/ guidance of senior USPS project managers.  Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the following essential functions:

    Federal (USPS), state, and or local government planned, construction management, and emergency response.
    Coordinate multiple hazardous materials (asbestos, lead paint, mold, air, universal wastes, etc.) projects simultaneously for government clients including surveys, preparation of technical specifications, and third-party oversight work.
    Performs work under the direction of the project manager throughout the project life cycle including scope development, solicitations, proposal development, scheduling, fieldwork oversight 
    Prepare various sized technical reports (some examples - third party oversight reports, completion reports, Phase I and II's, remedial work plans, facility assessment tools).
    Plan elements such as reviewing, analyzing, integrating, interfacing and coordinating federal, state, local, and regional contingency and emergency response plans, and protocols.
    Provide professional staff expert guidance, recommendations, protocols, technologies, equipment, materials, and personnel for implementing projects for federal clients.
    Oversight of contractors in both for indoor and outdoor work sites, utilizing health & safety protocols.
    Provide technical support capability for performing, assessing and developing mitigation options, plans, guidance and reports for any threat posed to human health and the environment. This includes but is not limited to human health risk and exposure assessments, ecological risk assessments and the ability to implement and perform mitigation measures and services.

In addition:
    Well organized and strong attention to detail.
    Able to multi-task and manage multiple projects simultaneously
    Highly motivated, customer focused and works well in a team environment.
    Excellent communication, responsiveness, and customer service skills.  
    Ability to manage a heavy workload.


Required Qualifications (Required)

This position requires 0-2+ years of experience with practical scientific, project management, environmental engineering, construction management, or environmental consulting work experience.  It also requires experience with:
    Managing multiple hazardous materials projects for government clients including surveys, preparation of technical specifications, and third-party oversight work.
    Planning elements such as reviewing, analyzing, integrating, interfacing and coordinating federal, state, local, and regional contingency and emergency response plans, and protocols.
    Providing professional staff expert guidance, recommendations, protocols, technologies, equipment, materials, and personnel for implementing projects for federal clients.
    Understanding health and safety, ecological and human health protocols for indoor and outdoor work sites.


In addition, it requires:
    Bachelor's degree or higher in Industrial Hygiene, environmental, or physical sciences from an accredited United States college or university.

Preferred Qualifications
    Working for or with federal agencies
    Experience working for or with the United States Postal Service (USPS).
    Experience preparing various sized technical reports.
    Knowledge of determining federal, state and local environmental laws and statutes. 
    Prior consulting experience and working with clients in a collaborative fashion.
    40-hour OSHA HAZWOPER certification.
    30-hour OSHA Construction Safety certification.
    EPA HERA Building Inspection License and/or EPA Lead Inspector credentials.
    ASTM E1527 Phase I Environmental Site Assessment
    State Asbestos Building Inspector Certification
    State Lead Inspector Certification or Environmental Protection Agency Lead Inspector License


Work Environment/Environmental Factors (Required)
    This position is primarily desk work, however, occasionally (25%) you will need to travel and perform fieldwork and project oversight in west coast states and sometimes nationwide. The events may require travel on short notice or planned in advance.


Physical Requirements (Required)
The physical demands described here represent those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made.  You must be able to:
    Work prolonged periods using a computer.
    Travel to work sites
    Work long days and weekends to accommodate field work/construction schedules when traveling
    Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
    Don personal protective gear as needed.
    In a disaster situation, ability to walk on uneven terrain.
    You must be able to drive.
    Passing a motor vehicle record background check and maintaining a valid driver's license and safe driving record is required.


Additional Information (Required)

    This is a full-time position.  Normal workdays are Monday - Friday. Flexible work schedule.
    This position requires roughly 25% travel on the west coast and nationwide.
    May need to work occasionally on nights and weekends to address emergency response as needed.
    You may work remotely from your home on the west coast or in a west coast Tetra Tech office.
    This arrangement is subject to review and may change at the company's discretion


Life at Tetra Tech
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
    Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
    Merit-based financial rewards.
    Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
    Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
    Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.  


Tetra Tech offers comprehensive benefit options that allow employees to design a plan based on individual needs and assists in planning for long-term financial security.  Available benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance, term life, disability, accidental death & dismemberment coverage, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Health Spending Account (HSA), time off with pay, 401k retirement plan, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.


Health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech's employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including any public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, and international authorities as well as client and project requirements.  
 

About Tetra Tech:

Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. Our 25,000 employees work together to provide clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.

We invite applications from all interested parties. 

Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:

LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs

Please no phone calls or agencies.

Additional Information
  • Organization: 103 EMI

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