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City Building Inspector Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

... building maintenance, and fire prevention codes and related ordinances of the City of Fairfax. Work ... Examples Of Duties Conducts inspections of all construction trades in both residential and ...

Combination Inspector

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$66K - $105K/yr

... building maintenance, and fire prevention codes and related ordinances of the City of Fairfax. Work ... Examples Of Duties Conducts inspections of all construction trades in both residential and ...

... building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical codes, fire and life safety, health, occupational ... City. This is code enforcement work requiring the application of technical and specialized ...

Fire Codes Inspector

Rockville, MD · On-site

$67K - $111K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

City Hall -111 Maryland Ave, Rockville, MD 20850, MD Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 202600088 ... building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical codes, fire and life safety, health, occupational ...

Building Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Perform additional fire and life safety inspections as per NFPA and local jurisdiction, C&W ... Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses, such as Refrigeration Certificate of ...

Building Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Inspect engine room equipment, fan room equipment, cooling tower, all motors, house pumps, electric ... Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses, such as Refrigeration Certificate of ...

Building Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Inspect engine room equipment, fan room equipment, cooling tower, all motors, house pumps, electric ... Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses, such as Refrigeration Certificate of ...

Building Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Inspect engine room equipment, fan room equipment, cooling tower, all motors, house pumps, electric ... Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses, such as Refrigeration Certificate of ...

Building Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Inspect engine room equipment, fan room equipment, cooling tower, all motors, house pumps, electric ... Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses, such as Refrigeration Certificate of ...

Inspector Trainees

Rockville, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... city/local agencies, private owners, architects, engineers and contractors. M&J is a leader in ... We currently have a business development office in Rockville, MD, and are actively building our ...

Inspector Trainees

Rockville, MD

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... city/local agencies, private owners, architects, engineers and contractors. M&J is a leader in ... We currently have a business development office in Rockville, MD, and are actively building our ...

Building Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inspect building systems, including but not limited to fire alarms, HVAC, and plumbing, to ensure ... When applicable, obtain required city and/or government licenses or permits (i.e., Boiler Operating ...

Building Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inspect building systems, including but not limited to fire alarms, HVAC, and plumbing, to ensure ... When applicable, obtain required city and/or government licenses or permits (i.e., Boiler Operating ...

Building Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inspect building systems, including but not limited to fire alarms, HVAC, and plumbing, to ensure ... When applicable, obtain required city and/or government licenses or permits (i.e., Boiler Operating ...

Building Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Inspect building systems, including but not limited to fire alarms, HVAC, and plumbing, to ensure ... When applicable, obtain required city and/or government licenses or permits (i.e., Boiler Operating ...

Inspector Trainees

Rockville, MD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... city/local agencies, private owners, architects, engineers and contractors. M&J is a leader in ... We currently have a business development office in Rockville, MD, and are actively building our ...

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Showing results 1-20

City Building Inspector information

See Washington, DC salary details

$40.8K

$78K

$116.7K

How much do city building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for city building inspector in Washington, DC is $78,015.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $91,700.00 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.
Infographic showing various City Building Inspector job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,015 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

$66K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description This is responsible code enforcement work in securing and maintaining compliance with state and local building construction, building maintenance, and fire prevention codes and related ordinances of the City of Fairfax. Work involves inspections of buildings during construction, alteration, and repair to ensure conformance with existing code and ordinance requirements applicable to building construction, use, and maintenance. Work is performed with considerable latitude for independent judgement and action within the framework of existing rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

Work is performed under the general supervision of the Code Administration Battalion Chief and is reviewed through reports and conferences. Examples Of Duties Conducts inspections of all construction trades in both residential and commercial projects. Inspects houses and buildings for violation of ordinances or regulatory codes pertaining to minimum standards for fire prevention and for basic equipment and facilities for lighting, ventilation, space, heating, hygiene, and sanitation.

Participates in a variety of inspection services including, but not limited to, public facilities, boilers, shafts, underground water systems, sprinkler systems, and cross connections; issues related certificates and/or permits. Conduct special inspections to ensure that all accessible provisions for ramps, restrooms, drinking fountains, and telephones have been satisfied. Inspects and approves construction and materials used at various stages of building.

Recommends non-issuance, non-renewal, or revocation of occupancy permits if city ordinances/codes are violated. Must work overtime as required. Must be able to read and interpret building plans from design professionals to determine code compliant construction methods.

Conducts administrative duties; data entry from daily inspections, filing, copying, answering the phone, checking messages, and emails. Investigates and responds to code violations, complaints, and code questions. Provides public education messaging on safe construction practices and on the importance of properly installed working smoke alarms.

Conducts cross connection surveys; records and submit results and monitors and maintains required testing. Conducting rental occupancy inspections are completed as needed. Conducts grass, weeds, and tree notices.

Performs related work as assigned. The duties listed above are intended only as an illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Qualifications Requires two years conducting code inspections or closely related experience. Three to five years of experience in the building trades as a contractor, foreman, or inspector; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following necessary knowledge, abilities, and skills. Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Considerable knowledge of the methods and techniques of code enforcement.

Considerable knowledge of the regulations and laws relating to building construction, fire prevention, and zoning. Considerable knowledge of possible defects and flaws in building construction and of effective corrective measures. Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and engineering drawings.

Ability to inspect existing buildings for compliance with building maintenance and fire prevention codes. Ability to inspect buildings and structures for structural stability in accordance with accepted engineering practices and to ascertain compliance with applicable codes in the various trade areas such as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. Ability to tactfully enforce codes and regulations using good judgement and discretion.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, contractors, architects, and the public. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing. Special Certifications and Licenses: Must have or be able to obtain the certifications required by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development listed below.

Requires a driver's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia w/safe driving record. Requires the following certifications: Residential Building Inspector, Residential Electrical Inspector, Residential Plumbing Inspector, Residential Mechanical Inspector, Commercial Building Inspector, Commercial Electrical Inspector, Commercial Plumbing Inspector, Commercial Mechanical Inspector, Combination Residential Inspector Certification, and Combination Commercial Certification.