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City Building Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Claremont

Building Inspector

Claremont, CA · On-site

$74K - $89K/yr

City of Claremont The Community Development Department is looking for one enthusiastic, highly motivated, outgoing, and customer service-focused Building Inspector to perform combination residential ...

City of Claremont, CA

Building Inspector

Claremont, CA · On-site

$74K - $89K/yr

City Hall - 207 Harvard Avenue Claremont, CA Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 2026-030 Department ... If you answered yes , consider joining Team Claremont as our next Building Inspector and help shape ...

City of Garden Grove

Building Inspector

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$6.5K - $9.7K/mo

City and Job Overview The City of Garden Grove is now accepting applications for: BUILDING INSPECTOR Deadline to apply for this recruitment is Wednesday, September 16, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. PST. Click ...

City of Hemet

Building Inspector II

Hemet, CA · On-site

$81K - $93K/yr

THE CITY **THE CITY OF HEMET IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER** The City of Hemet is experiencing exciting growth, and we're looking for a skilled Building Inspector II to help guide that progress.

SuperbTech, Inc

Building Inspector

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$45 - $65/hr

Experience working for a city, county, or public agency Building & Safety Department. * Experience performing both field inspections and plan reviews. * Active ICC certifications are highly desirable ...

City of Compton

Senior Building Inspector

Compton, CA

$87K - $102K/yr

Represents the Department to other City departments, elected officials and outside agencies ... Residential Building Inspector (B1) Commercial Building Inspector (B2) Plans Examiner (B3) Must ...

City of Anaheim, CA

Building Inspector III

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$98K - $119K/yr

City of Anaheim, CA Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 2026-00178 Department: Planning & Building ... Building Inspector III is the advanced journey-level classification in the Building Inspector ...

City of Oceanside

Building Inspector I/II

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$56K - $80K/yr

The City of Oceanside is accepting applications for current and future vacancies for the position of Building Inspector I/II. There is currently one vacancy in the Development Services Department ...

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Sonomacity

Chief Building Official

Sonoma, CA · On-site

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 ...

City of Anaheim

Building Inspector III

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$98K - $119K/yr

Description The City of Anaheim Planning and Building Department is seeking an experienced Building Inspector III to join our Building Services team. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned ...

City of Oceanside, CA

Building Inspector I/II

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$5.8K - $7.6K/mo

The City of Oceanside is accepting applications for current and future vacancies for the position of Building Inspector I/II. There is currently one vacancy in the Development Services Department ...

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How much do city building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for city building 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 does a city building inspector do?

A City Building Inspector is responsible for reviewing construction projects to ensure they comply with local building codes, zoning laws, and safety regulations. They examine plans, inspect construction sites, and issue permits or stop-work orders as needed. Their goal is to protect public safety by making sure structures are built safely and meet all legal requirements. Building Inspectors also provide guidance to builders and property owners about necessary improvements or changes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a city building inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a City Building Inspector, you need a solid understanding of local building codes, construction methods, and inspection procedures, often backed by a relevant degree or trade experience and certification such as ICC certification. Familiarity with inspection management software, digital reporting tools, and sometimes GIS systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help inspectors work with contractors and the public. These skills ensure that buildings are safe, compliant, and built to code, protecting the community and upholding regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges city building inspectors face when performing site inspections?

City Building Inspectors often encounter challenges such as managing tight inspection schedules, addressing non-compliance issues with contractors or property owners, and staying updated on evolving building codes and regulations. Additionally, they must be able to communicate technical requirements in an accessible way and handle disputes or disagreements professionally. Adapting to various work environments—from new construction sites to older buildings—also requires inspectors to be vigilant about safety and detail-oriented in their evaluations.

What is the difference between City Building Inspector vs City Code Enforcement Officer?

AspectCity Building InspectorCity Code Enforcement Officer
CredentialsTypically requires building inspection certifications, state licensing, and relevant construction knowledgeRequires knowledge of local codes, ordinances, and sometimes certification in code enforcement
Work EnvironmentInspecting new construction, renovations, and ensuring compliance with building codesEnforcing city codes related to property maintenance, zoning, and safety violations
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal government, construction, and architecture firmsMunicipal government, housing authorities, and public safety agencies

While both roles focus on ensuring safety and compliance within city regulations, City Building Inspectors primarily evaluate construction projects and building safety, whereas City Code Enforcement Officers handle broader property and zoning violations. Both positions require knowledge of local codes and often collaborate to maintain community standards.

Can you become a city building inspector with no experience?

Becoming a city building inspector typically requires some background in construction, architecture, or engineering, along with relevant certifications or licenses. While entry-level positions may be available, most employers prefer candidates with related experience or training in building codes and inspection procedures.

How much do city building inspectors make?

City building inspectors typically earn a median annual salary of around $65,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $45,000 to $90,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. In large cities, salaries tend to be higher due to increased demand and cost of living. They often work full-time, inspecting construction sites and ensuring compliance with building codes and safety regulations.

Is there a demand for city building inspectors?

City building inspectors are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, renovation, and safety compliance needs in urban areas. Employment opportunities are often influenced by local development projects, building codes, and the need for certified inspectors with relevant licenses and knowledge of building regulations.

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

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

City Building Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various City Building Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,979 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Building Inspector Supervisor

Fairfield, CA • On-site

City of Fairfield, CA
Public Administration • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about City of Fairfield, CAexternal

$114K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Salary : $114,907.10 - $139,669.09 Annually
Location : Fairfield, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-00025
Department: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Division: CD-Building Inspection
Opening Date: 04/13/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Exempt
Bargaining Unit: FGMA
Description
A national search is underway to attract highly qualified candidates to join the City's Building Division!
This recruitment is being led by Public Service Search, LLC.
Click here to view the job brochure. For questions, please contact Craig Southerland at (619) 393-9508 or via email at
This is an open and continuous recruitment and may close without notice, at any time. Please apply for immediate consideration.
ABOUT FAIRFIELD
The City of Fairfield is situated midway between San Francisco and Sacramento-the State capitol. Fairfield offers an inviting mix of rural and suburban lifestyles and easy access to all of the urban amenities associated with two of the nation's most dynamic metropolitan regions.
Fairfield is a rowing community that reaps the benefits of its ideal location for those who live and work here. The blend of agriculture, corporate business and pleasant lifestyle enhance the attraction of Fairfield. The area is blessed with a thriving agricultural economy and also home to biotechnology and other growth industries.
Residents here enjoy vibrant, safe, clean, affordable and diverse community with robust commerce, and thriving businesses. Fairfield isa vibrant and diverse community with respect for its heritage and a prosperous vision for its future. With its strategic location, growing housing communities, natural and human resources, and quality of life, Fairfield is enteringthe21st Century with a promising future as a place to live, learn, work and play.
ABOUT THE POSITION
The City of Fairfield is recruiting for a Building Inspector Supervisor. This position will provide supervision, direction and training for assigned personnel in the Community Development Department Building Safety Division; to assist the Chief Building Official in planning and directing division activities; assist in the review of building plans and specifications for permit issuance; to enforce building (residential and commercial) and zoning codes and laws; perform related functions as required.
Under general direction from the Chief Building Official, the Building Inspector Supervisor provides direct supervision to building inspection staff, and may provide Building Division staff oversight in the absence of the Chief Building Official. The Building Division is part of the city's Community Development Department.
The city is seeking an energetic and experienced candidate whose character reflects the values of the city. The successful candidate should be a collaborative, adaptable, and open-minded individual who learns quickly, leads by example, and is not afraid to roll up their sleeves to get the job done. The individual should have confidence in their ability to communicate effectively. The ideal candidate should also be a mindful leader who cares for their associates and brings a passion for chasing excellence.
This classification is represented by the Fairfield General Management Association ("FGMA") and offers an excellent benefits package, including:
  • CalPERS Pension Eligibility
  • Tuition Reimbursement - up to $4,000/Year
  • Generous contributions towards Medical, Dental, Vision, and Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRA)
  • City-Paid Life Insurance
  • 100 Hours of Personal Leave annually, which is 100% Cashable (in addition to generous Vacation and Sick Leave accrual rates)
  • 10% City contribution to 401(a) Deferred Compensation account with 4% mandatory employee contribution in addition to an employee-optional 457 account

Minimum Qualifications
Experience:
  • Seven (7) years of full-time building inspection experience with a public agency or equivalent, with three (3) years of lead experience at a level equivalent to the City of Fairfield's Senior Building Inspector classification.
Education:
  • Education equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade is required. Related college course work is highly desirable.

LICENSE AND / OR CERTIFICATE
-Possession of a valid California Driver's license is required.
-International Code Council (ICC) certifications for Residential and Commercial levels are required:
1. Residential Level
  • Residential Building Inspector (B1)*
2. Commercial Level - Commercial "Combination" Inspector (requires all the below listed certifications and noted equivalents)
  • Building (B2)*
  • Mechanical (M2)**
  • Electrical (E2)
  • Plumbing (P2)**
Acceptable ICBO and IAPMO legacy program equivalencies are noted below:
*ICBO legacy certification as a "Building Inspector" will be accepted as an equivalent to the Building (B1) & (B2) certifications.
**IAPMO certifications in Plumbing & Mechanical are equivalent to the (M2) & (P2) certifications.
-Certification from the CA Division of the State Architect as a Certified Accessibility Specialist is required within the first year in the position.
All licenses and certifications must be maintained as a condition of employment.
Examples of Duties
Click here to view the full job description.
THE SELECTION PROCESS:
Based on the information provided in the application documents, the best-qualified applicants will be invited for further examination. All applicants meeting the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement through any subsequent phase of the examination. Depending upon the number of applications received, the examination may consist of an application screening, written and/or practical exam, oral interview, or any combination.
HOW TO APPLY:
Candidates must submit an online application via NeoGov/Governmentjobs.com by 5:00 p.m. of the closing date. If you have any difficulties submitting your online application, please call NeoGov'sApplicant Support Line at (855) 524-5627.
Mac users please note: To ensure compatibility, please use Google Chrome and ensure iOS settings are up-to-date.
If you feel you will need a reasonable accommodation for any portion of the testing/interview process, please contact Human Resources at (707) 428-7394 at least 1 week prior to the application deadline or examination date.
The City of Fairfield is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and professionalism.
The City of Fairfield offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes City contribution toward the Public Employees' Retirement System and deferred savings; medical, dental and vision; life insurance; paid holidays, vacation, personal leave and sick leave.
For a more detailed overview of our benefit package, please click on the following link *
*Benefits, terms and conditions of employment may be amended or modified through the collective bargaining process.

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