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Chief Building Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chief Building Inspector Position Position Open Until Filled JOB INFORMATION Job Title: Chief Building Inspector Department: Community Development Bargaining Unit: Non-Bargaining Reports to Position:

Chief Building Inspector Position Position Open Until Filled JOB INFORMATION Job Title: Chief Building Inspector Department: Community Development Bargaining Unit: Non-Bargaining Reports to Position:

Serves as the City's Chief Building Official and supports safe, efficient, customer-focused ... Coordinates and performs inspections of residential, commercial, industrial, and other structures ...

Chief Building Official

Sonoma, CA ยท On-site

$100 - $130/hr

The Chief Building Official is responsible for supervising the City's Building Inspector(s), Plans Examiner(s) and other technical and administrative staff as assigned and provides the administration ...

Chief Building Inspector 39

Lansing, MI ยท On-site

$70K - $105K/yr

Continuous Job Advertisement Under the leadership of the Economic Development & Planning Department, the Chief Building Inspector will act as the supervisor to a team of Building Inspectors assuring ...

SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED Works under the general supervision of the Chief Building Inspector, and exercises supervision over the Building Inspectors I, Building and Permit Technicians, and ...

Chief Building Official

Vail, CO ยท On-site

$86K - $170K/yr

Position Overview Chief Building Official - Town of Vail, Colorado Deadline for the first review of ... This is an exceptional opportunity to oversee permitting, plan review, inspections, and code ...

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Chief Building Inspector information

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$51K

$98.8K

$152K

How much do chief building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief building inspector in the United States is $98,765.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief building inspector do?

A Chief Building Inspector oversees the inspection of building projects to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal construction codes and regulations. They supervise a team of inspectors, review plans, coordinate inspections, and address complex code issues. Their role also involves managing administrative tasks, providing guidance to staff and contractors, and ensuring public safety through code enforcement. The Chief Building Inspector acts as a key liaison between builders, government agencies, and the public.

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

To thrive as a Chief Building Inspector, you need extensive knowledge of building codes, construction practices, and inspection procedures, typically supported by relevant certifications and several years of inspection experience. Familiarity with inspection management software, digital permitting systems, and code reference tools is essential. Leadership, attention to detail, and strong communication skills enable effective team management and clear guidance to staff and stakeholders. These competencies ensure the safety, compliance, and quality of construction projects within a community.

What are some common challenges chief building inspectors face when managing large teams across multiple projects?

Chief Building Inspectors often oversee numerous inspectors and projects simultaneously, which can present challenges in maintaining consistent quality and compliance across all sites. Coordinating schedules, ensuring thorough communication, and addressing unique issues that arise on different projects require strong organizational and leadership skills. Additionally, adapting to varying local codes and keeping up with changes in building regulations can be demanding, but leveraging technology and fostering a collaborative team environment can help overcome these obstacles.

What is the difference between Chief Building Inspector vs Building Inspector?

AspectChief Building InspectorBuilding Inspector
CredentialsTypically requires state or local licensing, certifications in building codes, and experience in inspectionRequires similar certifications and licensing, often with less experience needed
Work EnvironmentSupervises inspection teams, reviews plans, and enforces building codesPerforms on-site inspections of buildings and structures
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government agencies, construction firms, and architectural firmsCommonly employed by local government, construction companies, and private inspectors

The main difference is that the Chief Building Inspector oversees inspection teams and manages compliance processes, while the Building Inspector conducts the actual on-site inspections. Both roles require similar credentials, but the Chief Building Inspector has additional supervisory responsibilities.

Can you become a chief building inspector with no experience?

Becoming a chief building inspector typically requires several years of experience in building inspection or construction, along with relevant certifications and knowledge of building codes. Entry-level positions usually require some experience, and advancement to a chief role depends on demonstrated expertise and leadership skills.

How much do chief building inspectors make?

Chief building inspectors in Illinois typically earn an average annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the jurisdiction. They are responsible for overseeing building code compliance, conducting inspections, and ensuring safety standards are met, often requiring certification and knowledge of local building codes.

Is there a demand for chief building inspectors?

The demand for chief building inspectors is expected to grow as construction, renovation, and infrastructure projects increase, especially in regions with active development. These professionals are essential for ensuring compliance with building codes and safety standards, often requiring certifications and experience in inspection procedures. Job prospects are generally favorable in areas with ongoing construction activity and strong regulatory enforcement.
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Cities with the most Chief Building Inspector job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Chief Building Inspector jobs?

The top employers for Chief Building Inspector jobs are:

What states have the most Chief Building Inspector jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chief Building Inspector jobs include:

Infographic showing various Chief Building Inspector job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,765 per year, or $47.5 per hour.

Chief Building Inspector

City of Marion

Marion, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Chief Building Inspector Position

Position Open Until Filled


JOB INFORMATION

Job Title: Chief Building Inspector

Department: Community Development

Bargaining Unit: Non-Bargaining

Reports to Position: Building Manager

Location: City Hall

Overtime Status: Salary

FLSA Status: Exempt


JOB SUMMARY

Work involves supervision within the Building Inspection Division including but not limited to enforcement of Building, Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Code, Zoning Ordinance, and review of building plans and specifications, inspection of building construction, communication with contractors, general public Appeals Boards. General direction and review are received from the Building Manager, must exercise discretion and independent judgement in the day-to-day activities of the Building Inspection Department. Conducts inspections and enforcement of Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Mechanical, Zoning, Nuisance, Property Maintenance, Dangerous Building and other related codes and ordinances. 


ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED

  • Assist in supervising, planning, directing, and coordinating Building Inspection Division inspections with regard to code compliance, under the general supervision of the Building Official.
  • Assist in assigning and directing the work of subordinates with the Building Inspection Department.
  • Conduct inspections and enforcement of Building, Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Codes, Dangerous and Abandoned Building Code, and other development-related codes and ordinances. 
  • Check building plans to assure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances.
  • Coordinate with and support other city departments with regard to enforcement of Fire Code, Zoning, Ordinance, Sign Ordinance, Sidewalk/Driveway regulations and other development related codes.
  • Investigate complaints, and inquiries regarding inspection, enforcement policies, and activities and other related matters.
  • Provide after hours inspections as needed.
  • Assist in maintaining records of all inspections, conditions noted and corrected, prepare additional records and reports as required.
  • Participate in training of Department employees related to development code enforcement methods and administration.
  • Provide technical assistance and attend meetings of appeal boards and other meetings as required.
  • Perform other duties and related work as assigned and required.



REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

  • Considerable knowledge of principles and practices of modern building code enforcement.
  • Considerable knowledge of construction principles and practices related to building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trades.
  • Six years' experience in building construction, construction trade, or code inspection. Candidates with a code inspection degree from an accredited university or trade school may qualify with three years of experience.
  • Must have or be able to obtain Commercial & Residential Building, Plumbing, Electrical, Mechanical, and a Plan Review Certification. 
  • Ability to read and understand construction plans and specifications.
  • Ability to read, understand and apply Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances and other local codes.
  • Ability to prepare clear and concise oral and written communications.
  • Knowledge of the city's geography, including general soil and hydrological information as it affects building construction.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with contractors, general public, and fellow employees.
  • Ability to keep and maintain department records in an organized and orderly way.
  • Ability to perform mathematical calculations quickly and accurately.
  • Ability to use computers, including word-processing, spreadsheet, and specialized building permit/inspection software applications.


ESSENTIONAL FUNCTIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Physical ability to traverse variable terrain conditions not accessible by vehicle including but not limited to steep slopes, un-level grades, and heavily vegetated areas for the purpose of visual construction inspection.
  • Ability to bend, stoop, climb, and otherwise move about a construction site for inspections of construction work to assure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances.
  • Ability to bend, reach, climb, stoop and lift 40 pounds for filing and records retrieval.
  • Ability to read, speak, write and understand English to communicate effectively and professionally with fellow employees, contractors, Boards and the general public via telephone or face-to-face. 
  • Ability to accurately observe construction work and conduct testing procedures to determine compliance with standards and ordinance requirements.
  • Ability to read and interpret regulations and ordinances governing construction of buildings and public works.
  • Ability to operate a telephone, calculator, and measuring devices.
  • Ability to work long hours outdoors occasionally under adverse weather conditions.


QUALIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or equivalency required. 
  • Considerable knowledge of principles and practices of modern building code enforcement.
  • Considerable knowledge of construction principles and practices related to building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing trades.
  • Six years' experience in commercial building construction, construction trade, or code inspection.
  • At time of hire, must have a minimum ICC Commercial certification or ICC's B3 Plans Examiner certification. These may be substituted with a Construction Management degree, or a Code Enforcement degree.
  • Must obtain the following ICC Certifications within one year of hire date:
    • Building Inspector Commercial (B2)
    • Building Inspector Residential (B1)
    • Residential Electrical Inspector (E1)
    • Commercial Electrical Inspector (E2)
  • Must obtain the following ICC Certifications within two years of hire date:
    • Commercial Plumbing Inspector (P2)
    • Residential Plumbing Inspector (P1)
    • Mechanical Commercial Inspector (M2)
    • Mechanical Residential Inspector (M1)
    • Building Plans Examiner (B3)
  • Must obtain the Certified Building Official (CBO) certification within three years of hire date.
  • Supervisory experience preferred but not required.
  • Must have a valid Iowa driver's license. 


WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Works in an office environment
  • Works a standard 40-hour work week
  • May be required to work some overtime upon demand of workload


REQUIRED BACKGROUND CHECKS

  • Sex Offender Registry Check
  • Criminal Record Check
  • Drug Screening
  • Driving Record
  • Pre-Employment Physical