1

Building Official Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Building Inspector

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$39.33 - $42.53/hr

... Official License Completion of trade school in construction related trade or equivalent education in construction management or architecture Four years of building trade experience Demonstrated ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Building Official information

See Minnesota salary details

$27.4K

$96.1K

$145K

How much do building official jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for building official in Minnesota is $96,125.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,400.00 and $117,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is the Job of a Building Official?

The job of a building official is to enforce applicable building codes for a building, or the group of buildings under your jurisdiction if you work for a municipality or large corporation. When this role works for a municipality, it is often called a chief building official and you are in charge of enforcing codes for every building within the jurisdiction of the municipality. This position is most often a supervisory role that oversees building inspectors, ensuring that construction or maintenance crews follow safety regulations, and a permit is in place for any projects. The job duties of a building official are primarily enforcement related.

What is a Building Official?

A Building Official is a government-appointed professional responsible for enforcing building codes, regulations, and standards within a specific jurisdiction. They review construction plans, issue permits, and conduct inspections to ensure that buildings are safe and comply with local, state, and national building codes. Building Officials also provide guidance to contractors, architects, and the public regarding code requirements. Their work helps ensure the safety, accessibility, and sustainability of the built environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Building Official, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Official, you need a comprehensive knowledge of construction codes, building inspection procedures, and regulatory compliance, often backed by a degree in construction management or a related field and relevant certifications. Familiarity with permitting software, inspection management systems, and code reference tools is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and decision-making skills are vital for interacting with contractors, the public, and enforcement agencies. These competencies ensure that buildings are safe, code-compliant, and projects progress efficiently within legal requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by Building Officials in coordinating with contractors and other stakeholders during construction projects?

Building Officials often encounter challenges when balancing code compliance with project timelines, especially when working with contractors, architects, and property owners who may have varying levels of understanding of local regulations. Effective communication is crucial to ensure all parties are informed about permit requirements, inspection schedules, and any necessary modifications. Building Officials must also remain impartial, resolving conflicts diplomatically and ensuring public safety is never compromised. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills help navigate these complexities and foster productive collaboration.

What is the difference between Building Official vs Building Inspector?

AspectBuilding OfficialBuilding Inspector
CredentialsTypically requires certifications such as ICC Building Inspector or equivalent, and sometimes a state licenseUsually requires similar certifications, often ICC Building Inspector or equivalent, but less administrative training
Work EnvironmentOversees building codes enforcement, manages permits, and supervises inspectors in government agenciesInspects construction sites, reviews plans, and ensures compliance with building codes
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by local governments, municipalities, or building departmentsEmployed by local governments, private firms, or construction companies

The Building Official holds a broader administrative and supervisory role, overseeing building code enforcement and managing staff, while the Building Inspector focuses on on-site inspections and compliance checks. Both roles require similar certifications, but the Building Official's responsibilities include policy implementation and permit approval processes.

What are popular job titles related to Building Official jobs in Minnesota? For Building Official jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Official jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Building Official jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Building Official jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Building Official job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Building Official jobs in MN? For Building Official jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Building Official job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,125 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Building Official - Prior Lake

Minnesota City Jobs

Prior Lake, MN

$108K - $140K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


State Of Minnesota rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 170 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Posting The City of Prior Lake is currently seeking a Building Official to oversee the enforcement of local building codes and regulations to ensure public safety in the building projects. This position is responsible for managing the Inspections Division, supervising Division personnel, reviewing building plans for compliance with applicable codes, reviewing permit applications and issuing permits, inspecting construction sites, and providing customer service to contractors and residents. Applicants must be certified as a Building Official by the State of Minnesota, have seven or mor years of building inspection experience, 5 or more years of commercial and residential plan review and have experience facilitating electronic plan reviews and software programs.

Please view the complete job description and apply online at www.priorlakemn.gov/jobs.


What State Of Minnesota employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


State of Minnesota logo

About State of Minnesota

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Minnesota State Demographic Center (SDC), part of the Minnesota Department of Administration, is the main provider of demographic data and analysis for the state of Minnesota. The SDC assists policymakers, state and local governments, businesses, nonprofits, the media, and all Minnesotans locate and understand the demographic data they need to make smart decisions.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Paul, MN, US

Year founded

1967

Social media