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Certified Building Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$61K - $70K/yr

ICC Building Inspector Certification * Certified Facility Manager (CFM) * Facility Management Professional (FMP) * OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour * Certified Building Official (CBO) * NFPA Life Safety ...

ICC Building Inspector Certification * Certified Facility Manager (CFM) * Facility Management Professional (FMP) * OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour * Certified Building Official (CBO) * NFPA Life Safety ...

ICC Building Inspector Certification * Certified Facility Manager (CFM) * Facility Management Professional (FMP) * OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour * Certified Building Official (CBO) * NFPA Life Safety ...

At least one valid ICC certification required (B2, M2, P2, E2, Fire Inspector I or Fire Inspector ... Nationwide Building Science & Infrastructure Consulting practice made up of more than 180 employees ...

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Certified Building Inspector information

See Virginia salary details

$35.7K

$68.3K

$102.1K

How much do certified building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for certified building inspector in Virginia is $68,290.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $80,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Certified Building Inspector, you need a solid understanding of building codes, construction methods, and inspection procedures, typically supported by certification such as ICC or state licensure. Familiarity with inspection software, digital reporting tools, and code reference systems is essential for efficient workflow and accurate documentation. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and impartial judgment help inspectors interact effectively with contractors and property owners while ensuring compliance. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety standards, legal compliance, and public trust in the built environment.

Is there a demand for certified building inspectors?

Certified building inspectors are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, renovation projects, and the need for building safety compliance. Employment opportunities are often available in government agencies, private inspection firms, and construction companies, with a requirement for relevant certifications and knowledge of building codes and inspection tools.

What are some typical challenges certified building inspectors face when working with contractors and property owners?

Certified Building Inspectors often encounter challenges such as balancing strict code enforcement with the practical concerns of contractors and property owners. Effective communication and diplomacy are essential, as inspectors must explain code requirements clearly and professionally, sometimes in situations where compliance may be costly or time-consuming for stakeholders. Inspectors also need to stay up-to-date on evolving building codes and standards, which can differ between jurisdictions, to ensure accurate and fair assessments. Building strong relationships and maintaining integrity helps inspectors navigate these challenges and promote safe, code-compliant construction.

What is a certified building inspector?

Certified Building Inspectors are professionals who evaluate buildings and structures to ensure they comply with local, state, and federal codes and regulations. Their work involves inspecting construction sites, existing buildings, and renovations for safety, structural integrity, and code compliance. To become certified, inspectors typically must complete specialized training and pass exams from recognized organizations. Their role is important in maintaining public safety and ensuring that construction projects meet legal and quality standards.

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

AspectCertified Building InspectorBuilding Code Official
CertificationsTypically requires state or local certification, often includes passing exams and ongoing educationRequires similar certifications, often with additional administrative or code enforcement credentials
Work EnvironmentConducts inspections on construction sites, residential and commercial buildingsOversees building code enforcement, reviews plans, and issues permits
Employer & Industry UsageEmployers include construction firms, government agencies, and inspection companiesPrimarily employed by local government or municipal agencies

While both roles involve building safety and code compliance, a Certified Building Inspector focuses on inspecting structures during and after construction, whereas a Building Code Official oversees the enforcement of building codes and manages permit processes. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What job categories do people searching Certified Building Inspector jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Certified Building Inspector jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Certified Building Inspector job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,290 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Structural Building Inspector

Chesterfield County, VA

Chesterfield, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Chesterfield, VA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 27-00111
Department: Building Inspections
Opening Date: 08/03/2026
Closing Date: 8/30/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Minimum Qualifications
Safe construction from the ground up - that is our commitment to excellence. If this is your passion too, we may be looking for you.
What You Do and How You Do It:
A Building Inspector is responsible for enforcing the Virginia Construction Code as it relates to residential and commercial structures. Perform on-site inspections of building construction and systems to ensure building safety and code compliance. Coordinate regulatory activities of other county departments involved in the building permit and approval process. Perform safety and damage assessment inspections. You will also respond to, investigate, and resolve concerns from citizens and customers regarding building code and construction related issues. Attend meetings to convey requirements about the department's procedures for the inspection processes and establish channels of communication between contractors, designers, job superintendents, and the inspection division. Participate in the development of the Virginia Construction Code representing Chesterfield at the state and national levels. You may be cross-trained to perform other duties. You must possess or obtain the required professional certifications and remain current with certifications and the latest best practices. This is primarily a home-based position. A County vehicle and computer equipment will be provided for teleworking and traveling from home directly to the field. Everything we do must be done with a customer and results focus. We facilitate safe code compliant construction; we do not hinder the construction process.
โ€ข Building Inspector I - $50,649 - $68,375. Must possess or obtain within 18 months of hire Virginia certifications as either a Residential or Commercial Building Inspector, as well as Erosion and Sediment Control Inspector.
โ€ข Building Inspector II - $56,107 - $75,744. Must possess at time of hire Virginia certifications as a Combination Inspector, or Residential Building Inspector and Commercial Building Inspector; Erosion and Sediment Control Inspector must be obtained within 18 months.
โ€ข Building Inspector III - $62,154 - $83,906. Must possess at time of hire Virginia certifications as Combination Residential Inspector and one of the following: Commercial Electrical Inspector, Commercial Plumbing/Mechanical Inspector, Commercial Building Inspector or Property Maintenance Inspector; Erosion and Sediment Control Inspector must be obtained within 18 months.
Here's What You Need:
High school diploma or GED; three years of code enforcement or construction experience preferably with strong structural emphasis; one year of experience as a Building Inspector for a Building Inspector II or two years of experience as a Building Inspector for a Building Inspector III; construction/engineering technology or vocational program degree/certificate preferred; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. You must be able to read and interpret construction documents and plans and use a personal computer and navigate software, which is used to perform your daily job duties. The ability to perform physically demanding work including, but not limited to, traversing construction sites, climbing ladders, walking long distances, climbing stairs, crawling under buildings and tight spaces, standing and/or driving for extended periods. Must demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills.
Current valid driver's license and good driving record required. Based on the Virginia DMV point system, records must not reflect a total of six or more demerit points within the twenty-four months preceding the anticipated hire date, or one major violation of six demerit points within the preceding thirty-six months. Out-of-state driving records must be obtained by the applicant and presented at time of interview. Records must reflect at least three years of history and be dated within 30 days of interview date. Pre-employment drug testing, FBI criminal background check and education/degree verification required.
Real Talk:
We'll be honest - this is hard work with multiple challenges that are sometimes frustrating. Often contractors manage projects in a way that makes your job more difficult. You may have to do some handholding when the construction labor force lacks proficiency. You need to consistently enforce a complex building code, manage coordination with multiple departments, keep track of numerous inspections and effectively manage a heavy volume of work on a daily basis. If you are committed to ensuring construction safety and building code compliance in a First Choice Community as well as getting it done right the first time, Building Inspector may be the career for you.
This position is a part of an approved Career Development Plan (CDP) and offers career progression opportunities and salary incentives, as funding permits, based on performance, qualifications and experience.
Still Interested?
Click the "apply" link above to complete and submit an application by August 30, 2026.
Shift
Monday - Friday; 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Work Location
Building Inspections
Chesterfield County is an Equal Opportunity Employer Committed to Workforce Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
For information on county benefits, view