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City Inspector Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Marion

Chief Building Inspector

Marion, IA · On-site

$75K/yr

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 ...

City of Marion

Chief Building Inspector

Marion, IA · On-site

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 ...

Aerotek

Quality Inspector

Ames, IA

$17 - $19/hr

Quality Inspector Join a growing team responsible for ensuring the quality and safety of ... Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and ...

Owen Industries

CERTIFIED WELDING INSPECTOR

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Sioux City, IA Are you a skilled Certified Welding Inspector looking to make an impact in a fast-paced, high-quality environment? We're on the lookout for an experienced professional to join our team ...

Tri-City Group

Industrial Project Manager

Davenport, IA · On-site

Participates in activities such as punch lists, city inspections, safety reviews, and quality reviews and prepares the necessary documentation * Providing technical assistance, e.g. interpretation of ...

City of Johnston

Fire Prevention Specialist

Johnston, IA · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Assists other departments, contracted city inspectors, engineers and architects as appropriate. * Aids in the preparation and application of grant funding. * Performs other duties as apparent or ...

Bureau Veritas

City: St. Cloud State: Minnesota Bureau Veritas is seeking a dedicated Trainee Inspector with hands-on experience in metal fabrication and pressure vessel manufacturing. This role is ideal for ...

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All JobsCity Inspector JobsCity Inspector Jobs in Iowa

City Inspector information

See Iowa salary details

$23K

$51.6K

$93K

How much do city inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for city inspector in Iowa is $51,602.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,200.00 and $59,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a city inspector do?

A City Inspector is responsible for ensuring that buildings and properties within a city comply with local codes, ordinances, and safety regulations. They conduct inspections of construction sites, residential and commercial properties, and public spaces to check for compliance with zoning laws, building codes, and health and safety standards. City Inspectors may issue citations or stop-work orders if violations are found and often work closely with contractors, property owners, and city officials to resolve any issues. Their work helps maintain public safety and the integrity of urban development.

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

City Inspectors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex regulations, addressing non-compliance issues diplomatically, and managing a high volume of inspections within tight deadlines. They may face resistance from property owners or contractors and must balance enforcing codes with providing helpful guidance. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring public safety.

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

To thrive as a City Inspector, you need a solid understanding of building codes, zoning regulations, and inspection procedures, often supported by relevant certifications or a background in construction or engineering. Familiarity with inspection management software, digital reporting tools, and state or municipal permit systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help City Inspectors effectively assess compliance and interact with property owners. These competencies ensure public safety, regulatory adherence, and the efficient handling of city development projects.

What is the difference between City Inspector vs Building Inspector?

AspectCity InspectorBuilding Inspector
CertificationsTypically requires state or local licensing, building codes knowledgeRequires similar certifications, often including ICC or state-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentInspects city infrastructure, public projects, and complianceFocuses on building safety, construction sites, and code adherence
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal government, public sectorMunicipalities, private firms, construction industry

Both City Inspectors and Building Inspectors work within municipal environments and require similar certifications. While City Inspectors often oversee broader city infrastructure and public projects, Building Inspectors focus specifically on construction sites and building safety compliance. Their roles are complementary, with overlapping skills and certifications, but differ in scope and focus.

How much do city inspectors make?

City inspectors typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. In larger cities, salaries can be higher, and inspectors often work full-time with some requiring specialized training or licensing.

How to become a city inspector in California?

To become a city inspector in California, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant work experience, and may be required to obtain specific certifications such as building or plumbing inspector licenses. The process often involves passing written exams and background checks, and inspectors usually work for local government agencies overseeing building codes, safety standards, and zoning regulations.

What are popular job titles related to City Inspector jobs in Iowa?

For City Inspector jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching City Inspector jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for City Inspector jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for City Inspector jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most City Inspector job openings:

City Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various City Inspector job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,602 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Chief Building Inspector

City of Marion

Marion, IA • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 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

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