ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Building Inspector Jobs in Santa Clara, CA (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Special Inspector

Hayward, CA · On-site

Inspect residential buildings to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. * Review construction plans and specifications. * Perform inspections at various stages of construction.

Essel

Special Inspector

Hayward, CA

Inspect residential buildings to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. * Review construction plans and specifications. * Perform inspections at various stages of construction.

Essel

Special Inspector

Hayward, CA · On-site

Inspect residential buildings to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. * Review construction plans and specifications. * Perform inspections at various stages of construction.

City of Santa Clara

Senior Inspector

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$135K - $172K/yr

... and inspection services, as well as administration of programs related to affordable housing. To ... The Building Department offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative, community-centered ...

City of Santa Clara, CA

Senior Inspector

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$135K - $172K/yr

... and inspection services, as well as administration of programs related to affordable housing. To ... The Building Department offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative, community-centered ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsBuilding Inspector JobsBuilding Inspector Jobs in Santa Clara, CA

Building Inspector information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

$42.3K

$80.9K

$121K

How much do building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for building inspector in Santa Clara, CA is $80,897.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $95,100.00 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.

Do you need experience to be a building inspector?

Building inspector positions typically require some prior experience in construction, architecture, or engineering, along with knowledge of building codes and inspection procedures. Many employers prefer candidates with relevant certifications or training, such as a state-issued license or certification from a professional organization. Entry-level roles may be available for those with related education and a willingness to learn on the job.

Are building inspectors in high demand?

Building inspectors are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, renovation projects, and the need for safety compliance. Employment for this role is expected to grow as building codes become more stringent and inspections remain a critical part of the construction process. Certification and knowledge of local building codes can enhance job prospects in this field.

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.
More about Building Inspector jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Inspector jobs in Santa Clara, CA? The most popular types of Building Inspector jobs in Santa Clara, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Inspector jobs in Santa Clara, CA? For Building Inspector jobs in Santa Clara, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Inspector jobs in Santa Clara, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Building Inspector jobs in Santa Clara, CA are:
What cities near Santa Clara, CA are hiring for Building Inspector jobs? Cities near Santa Clara, CA with the most Building Inspector job openings:
Building Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Inspector job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,897 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Senior Development Review Technician / Building Inspector

Town of Portola Valley

Portola Valley, CA • On-site

$90K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

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

Job description

Annual Salary Ranges:Senior Development Review Technician: $90,345 - $114,437Senior Development Review Technician / Building Inspector: $101,686 - $139,628Ready to take your development review expertise to the next level? The Town is hiring for a Senior Development Review Technician or a Senior Development Review Technician / Building Inspector to perform advanced technical planning and building support. You'll tackle complex projects, work independently, and ensure that development across our community aligns with established standards and contributes to projects that directly influence community vitality and quality of life. Depending on your experience and qualifications, the Building and Planning Director will appoint at either the Senior Development Review Technician or Senior Development Review Technician / Building Inspector level. The Senior Development Review Technician or Senior Development Review Technician / Building Inspector is the advanced journey level in the Development Review Technician series. Incumbents provide work coordination and training for other Development Review Technicians, as well as perform the full range of technical building and planning support duties. In addition, they also provide building inspections. They are required to possess thorough knowledge of the requirements, processes, and procedures of the Planning and Building Department and working knowledge of the Public Works Department. This position is distinguished from other classes within the series by the level of responsibility assumed, complexity of duties assigned, and independence of action taken. Incumbents are expected to provide more comprehensive support to the Planning and Building Department and may be assigned work coordination and lead responsibilities. Representative Duties include, but are not limited to:Permit Processing & Customer Service - Guide applicants through the full permit lifecycle from application to issuance, providing responsive and knowledgeable service at the counter, by phone, email, and virtual meetings. Plan Review & Technical Analysis - Conduct complex plan reviews for planning and building conformance, process staff-level site development permits, and approve minor permits including fences, zoning permits, and horse keeping permits. Permit System Administration - Serve as administrator for the Town's permit tracking software, train staff and consultants, and identify opportunities to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of permitting processes. Code Enforcement Support - Coordinate with code enforcement staff, conduct field investigations, respond to complaints, and assist the Town Attorney with legal actions as needed. Commission & Committee Support - Provide technical and administrative support to the Planning Commission, ASCC, and related committees including agenda preparation, packet assembly, and minutes. Data, Reporting & GIS - Track permit volumes, prepare reports and analysis, manage deposit accounts, and create maps and gather geographic data using the Town's GIS system.Building Inspections (if applicable) - Perform field inspections at all stages of construction (foundations, framing, plumbing, electrical, mechanical), approve acceptable work, document violations, and conduct final inspections for code compliance.  Please reference the full job description for all representative duties. Education and Experience: Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way (but not the only way) to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Education: A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in land-use planning, real estate, construction management or a related field. An Associate's Degree will also be accepted with additional experience.Licenses or Certificates: Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver's License. ICS 100, 200, and 700 certifications desired. ICC Permit Technician Certificate desired. If applicable, possession of an International Code Council Building Inspector Certification or Combination Residential Certificate, or ability to obtain certification(s) within twelve (12) months of the appointment. Experience: Three years of increasingly responsible experience performing technical development review and permitting activities similar to that of a Development Review Technician II. If applicable, any years of experience conducting field inspections.Benefits include, but are not limited to:Retirement: The Town participates in CalPERS with 2% @ 55 for classic members with a current employee contribution of 7%. For new employees covered under PEPRA, the retirement formula is 2% @ 62 with an employee contribution of half the normal cost of benefit for both employer and employee. The Town participates in Social Security. Medical: Generous contribution to Cafeteria Plan (section 125) for employee to select from CalPERS medical plans, opt out, or deferred compensation plan. The cafeteria plan allowance is adjusted annually on January 1. Monthly Health Opt-Out Payment -- Employee Only & Employee plus one: $600 Employee plus two or more: $800 Dental & Vision: Paid for by Town for employee and dependents. Deferred Compensation: Offered with no contribution cost from the Town. Vacation: Up to 20 days per year, depending on years of service. Holidays: 9 holidays per calendar year plus business days between Christmas & New Year's Day. Sick Leave: 12 days accrued per year.To Apply: Please visit https://portolavalley.applicantpool.com/jobs/1317020-339306.html and upload your cover letter and resume by 11:59pm, Sunday, August 9, 2026The Town is an Equal Opportunity EmployerApplicants with disabilities may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting the Human Resources Department at pvhr@portolavalley.net or calling 650-851-1700 ext. 229.