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Building Safety Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Building Inspector

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$45 - $65/hr

Building Inspector Location: Los Angeles, CA Pay Rate: $45.00 to $65.00 per hour, DOE Schedule ... This is an excellent opportunity to work on diverse projects while contributing to public safety ...

Building Inspector I/II

Modesto, CA · On-site

$34.38 - $48.44/hr

Measure H - Building Safety Opening Date: 09/11/2026 Closing Date: 9/28/2026 5:00 PM Pacific Bargaining Unit: MCEA The Position Join Our Team as a Building Inspector and Help Create Safer Housing!

The future is now, Willdan is "Envisioning the Future" of Building & Safety through our work with ... Conduct inspections before, during, and after construction to ensure that the building an ...

The future is now, Willdan is "Envisioning the Future" of Building & Safety through our work with ... Conduct inspections before, during, and after construction to ensure that the building an ...

The future is now, Willdan is "Envisioning the Future" of Building & Safety through our work with ... Conduct inspections before, during, and after construction to ensure that the building an ...

The future is now, Willdan is "Envisioning the Future" of Building & Safety through our work with ... Conduct inspections before, during, and after construction to ensure that the building an ...

Building Inspector I/II

Riverside, CA · On-site

$72K - $114K/yr

... Safety Department is seeking motivated, knowledgeable, and customer-focused Building Inspectors to ... join our team across multiple regional offices. These positions perform complex residential and ...

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Safety Inspector-PM

South Gate, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Conducts safety inspections and fills reports for each job site visit. * Conducts vehicle safety ... of your building from damage. Our crews are not run-of-the-mill laborers -- they are skilled ...

Building Inspector I/II

Modesto, CA · On-site

$34.38 - $48.44/hr

Are you passionate about building safety, code compliance, and improving the quality of housing in our community. The City of Modesto is seeking Building Inspector I/IIs to join our team and play an ...

Director of Building & Safety

Fontana, CA · On-site

$169K - $248K/yr

The Director of Building & Safety collaborates with developers, contractors, design professionals ... Manage, direct, and organize plan check, building/fire inspection, and code enforcement activities ...

Code Enforcement Inspector Property Rehabilitation | Building & Safety Location: Los Angeles, CA Schedule: 4/40 Schedule Assignment Type: Contract, On Site Pay Rate: $45.00 to $55.00 per hour ...

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Building Safety Inspector information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$68K

$101.7K

How much do building safety inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for building safety inspector in California is $67,979.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,300.00 and $79,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a building safety inspector?

Building Safety Inspectors are professionals responsible for examining construction sites, buildings, and structures to ensure they comply with local, state, and federal building codes and safety regulations. They inspect structural integrity, electrical systems, plumbing, fire safety measures, and other critical components during and after construction. Their work helps prevent unsafe building practices and ensures that buildings are safe for occupancy. Building Safety Inspectors also issue violation notices and may participate in approving permits or occupancy certificates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a building safety inspector?

To thrive as a Building Safety Inspector, you need strong knowledge of building codes, construction practices, and inspection procedures, typically backed by a relevant degree or certification such as ICC certification. Familiarity with inspection software, digital reporting tools, and safety compliance systems is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and clear communication are vital soft skills for identifying hazards and interacting with contractors and property owners. These skills ensure that buildings meet safety regulations, reducing risks and promoting public safety.

What are some common challenges building safety inspectors face when working on multiple construction sites simultaneously?

Building Safety Inspectors often need to manage inspections across several sites, which can pose challenges in terms of scheduling, travel, and maintaining thorough documentation. Balancing the demands of different project timelines requires strong organizational skills and effective communication with contractors and project managers. Inspectors must also stay up to date with varying local codes and regulations for each site, ensuring that they provide accurate, site-specific guidance. Adapting quickly to new environments and resolving unforeseen compliance issues are key aspects of success in this role.

What is the difference between Building Safety Inspector vs Building Code Official?

AspectBuilding Safety InspectorBuilding Code Official
CertificationsBuilding safety certifications, inspector licensesBuilding inspector licenses, code enforcement certifications
Work EnvironmentInspecting construction sites, reviewing plansOverseeing code compliance, issuing permits
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, construction firmsMunicipalities, government agencies

Building Safety Inspectors focus on inspecting construction sites and ensuring safety standards are met, while Building Code Officials oversee overall code compliance, issue permits, and enforce building regulations. Both roles require similar certifications and work within municipal or government settings, but their responsibilities differ in scope and authority.

Are building safety inspectors in high demand?

Building safety inspectors are generally in steady demand due to ongoing construction, renovation projects, and the need for code compliance. Employment prospects are often influenced by local regulations, infrastructure development, and the requirement for certifications such as ICC or state-specific licenses.

Can you become a building safety inspector with no experience?

Building safety inspectors typically need some related experience or training in construction, engineering, or building codes. Entry-level positions may require completing certification programs or courses, but prior experience is often preferred for more advanced roles.

How much do building safety inspectors make?

Building safety inspectors in New York City typically earn an average annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the employer, location, and level of expertise, with some inspectors earning higher with specialized skills or advanced licenses.

What qualifications do you need to be a building safety inspector?

Building safety inspectors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant post-secondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in construction, engineering, or a related field. Certification or licensing, such as a building inspector license, is often required and varies by location; experience in construction or building trades is also valuable. Strong knowledge of building codes, safety standards, and inspection procedures is essential for the role.

What cities in California are hiring for Building Safety Inspector jobs?

Cities in California with the most Building Safety Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Building Safety Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,979 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Combination Building Inspector / Sr. Combination Building Inspector

Orange, CA

City of Orange
501 - 1,000 employees

$77K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

JOIN THE BUILDING & SAFETY DIVISION of the CITY OF ORANGE We are hiring a Combination Building Inspector / Sr. Combination Building Inspector. (Position offered dependent upon the qualifications of the selected candidate.) About this Opportunity The Building & Safety Division of the City of Orange Community Development Department is a place where professionals can make a meaningful impact on the community every day

Our team supports safe, thoughtful development while preserving the historic character that makes Orange unique. We offer a collaborative, supportive work environment, opportunities for career growth, and a commitment to integrity, innovation, and public service. If you're passionate about helping people, solving problems, and shaping a safer built environment, this Building & Safety Division is a great place to build your career.

City of Orange employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Stable municipal employment Work-life balance supported by a predictable schedule Competitive salary Health, dental, vision, and life insurance options Retirement benefits through CalPERS Vacation, Sick Leave, and paid Holidays Professional development and training opportunities A positive culture rooted in teamwork and community pride Sr. Combination Building Inspector Under general supervision, provides technical and functional direction to lower-level staff and/or performs routine to complex plan review and combination inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial building sites to enforce building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and environmental codes, with specific expertise, knowledge of, and emphasis on one of the building trades; ensures conformance with approved plans, specifications, standards, permits, and licensing; provides a variety of information to property owners, developers, architects, engineers, and contractors; and performs related work as required. Combination Building Inspector Under general supervision, performs routine to complex combination inspections at various stages of construction, alterations, and repair of residential, commercial, and industrial building sites to enforce building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and environmental codes, and other governing laws and ordinances, including basic zoning, grading, fire, and safety regulations; ensures conformance with approved plans, specifications, standards, permits, licensing, and safety standards; provides a variety of information to property owners, developers, architects, engineers, and contractors; and performs related work as required.

Examples of Duties The following duties represent the principal job duties; however, they are not all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned. Management reserves the rights to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

Click here to view example job duties for a Sr. Combination Building Inspector. Click here to view example job duties for a Combination Building Inspector.

Typical Qualifications Click here to view typical qualifications for a Sr. Combination Building Inspector. Click here to view typical qualifications for a Combination Building Inspector.

Supplemental Information Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; to inspect various commercial and residential development sites, including traversing uneven terrain, climbing ladders, stairs, and other temporary or construction access points; to attend meetings and to operate a motor vehicle; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen, and make inspections; color vision to identify materials, structures, wires, and pipes; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information.

Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 40 pounds.