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Code Compliance Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Previous experience with grid code compliance and fire safety testing for ESS is a strong advantage. * Ability to work with global team from different backgrounds and on different time zones.

Elevator Inspector A professional, experienced vertical transportation inspector to provide detailed code compliance safety inspections and oversight of required testing for vertical transportation ...

Code Enforcement Officer

Stafford, VA · On-site

$28.38 - $49.67/hr

Code Enforcement Officer I: $26.52/hour to $36.47/hour Code Enforcement Officer II: $28.38/hour to ... Prepares detailed review of as-built compliance, infrastructure securities, and proffer ...

May serve as lead to other Code Enforcement Officers. There are two levels for this position ... Prepares detailed review of as-built compliance, infrastructure securities, and proffer ...

Elevator Inspector

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $120K/yr

Elevator Inspector A professional, experienced vertical transportation inspector to provide detailed code compliance safety inspections and oversight of required testing for vertical transportation ...

Sprinkler Engineer II

Tysons, VA · On-site

$90K - $113K/yr

This role includes performing site surveys, conducting code compliance assessments, supporting commissioning and acceptance testing, and coordinating with project teams, clients, and authorities ...

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Code Compliance information

What qualifications do I need to be a compliance officer?

To become a compliance officer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in fields such as law, business, or finance. Relevant certifications like Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) or Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) can enhance job prospects, and strong knowledge of industry regulations and attention to detail are essential skills.

Do you have to be certified to be a code enforcement officer?

Certification requirements for code enforcement officers vary by jurisdiction, but many states and local agencies require or prefer certification from professional organizations such as the International Code Council (ICC). In addition to certification, candidates typically need relevant experience, knowledge of building codes, and sometimes a valid driver's license. Certification can enhance job prospects and demonstrate expertise in code compliance enforcement.

What are examples of compliance jobs?

Compliance jobs include roles such as compliance officer, code enforcement officer, building inspector, and safety inspector. These positions involve ensuring adherence to laws, regulations, and standards in areas like building codes, safety protocols, and environmental regulations, often requiring relevant certifications and knowledge of local codes.

What is code compliance?

Code compliance refers to ensuring that buildings, properties, and activities adhere to local, state, and federal regulations, such as building codes, zoning laws, and health and safety ordinances. Code compliance officers typically inspect sites, respond to complaints, and work with property owners to fix violations. The goal is to maintain community safety, property values, and overall quality of life by enforcing established standards. If violations are not corrected, code compliance officers may issue fines or take legal action. This job often requires knowledge of construction, legal procedures, and effective communication with the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Code Compliance Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Code Compliance Officer, you need a solid understanding of local and state regulations, investigative skills, and often a background in criminal justice or public administration. Familiarity with inspection software, case management systems, and sometimes certification such as a Zoning Inspector or Code Enforcement Officer credential is typically required. Strong attention to detail, conflict resolution, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interacting with the public and resolving violations. These skills ensure accurate enforcement of ordinances, community safety, and compliance with legal standards.

What is the difference between Code Compliance vs Building Inspector?

AspectCode ComplianceBuilding Inspector
CertificationsOften requires certifications in code enforcement or building codesRequires certifications like ICC Building Inspector or equivalent
Work EnvironmentEnforces codes across various projects, including inspections and plan reviewsConducts on-site inspections to ensure compliance with building codes
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by municipalities, government agencies, and private firmsEmployed by local governments, construction firms, and inspection agencies

While both roles focus on ensuring safety and adherence to building standards, Code Compliance involves broader enforcement of various codes and regulations, whereas Building Inspectors primarily conduct on-site inspections to verify compliance with specific building codes. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the construction and regulatory industry.

Is compliance hard to break into?

Code compliance roles typically require knowledge of building codes, regulations, and inspection procedures, often supported by relevant certifications. Entry can be competitive, but gaining experience and certifications such as ICC or local licensing can improve job prospects. Strong attention to detail and understanding of safety standards are essential for success in this field.

What are some common challenges faced by Code Compliance Officers, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Code Compliance Officers often encounter challenges such as handling confrontational situations with property owners, staying updated on ever-changing regulations, and managing a diverse caseload. Successfully addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills, ongoing training, and effective time management. Many departments encourage collaboration with other municipal teams, such as building inspectors and public safety officials, to resolve complex cases and foster a supportive work environment.
Infographic showing various Code Compliance job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Combination Building Inspector

Combination Building Inspector

City of Charlottesville

Charlottesville, VA

$53K - $64K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

General Summary This Combination Building Inspector performs responsible technical work in the enforcement of the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) as interpreted by the State Building Code Technical Review Board and applicable City Code in relation to new and/or existing residential/commercial buildings. Work is performed under the general supervision of and reports to the Building Code Official. The preferred hiring range for this position is between $25.81 - $31.08 an hour ($53,684.80 - $64,646.40 Annually)

Starting offer is based on applicable education, experience, and internal equity. This is a full-time, non-exempt, position which provides excellent benefits including 13 paid holidays plus 1 floating holiday, paid vacation and sick leave, health insurance options with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, City's retirement options, gym membership reimbursement, tuition reimbursement, and continuing education/training opportunities. For a general summary of benefits offered by the City, please click the 'benefits' tab on this posting, or visit https://www.charlottesville.gov/1047/Employee-Benefits

The City of Charlottesville manages its own retirement system which offers both a defined benefit and a defined contribution option. While the City does not participate in VRS, the City has a Portability Agreement with VRS and there are certain provisions that must be met. For questions pertaining to the Portability Agreement, please contact the City's Benefits Administrator at 434-970-3462.

Note: This job opportunity is advertised with a closing date of "Continuous." If interested in being considered, an application should be submitted as soon as possible. Applications may no longer be considered once a reasonable number of applications has been received or once a candidate to fill the position is identified. Applications may be evaluated on a continuous basis and interviews may be conducted as soon as possible during the recruitment

This job announcement may close at any time after 7 calendar days. Essential Responsibilities and Duties To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations will be considered to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The essential functions of the job are not limited to those listed in the job description. The City retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time. Performs, schedules, and plans routine field inspections of new and/or existing buildings, structures, and/or properties to ensure code and ordinance compliance.

Investigate complaints of sub-standard and hazardous conditions in buildings, structures, and/or properties. Checks for code compliance and safety of work being performed. Approves or rejects inspections based on the building codes.

Issues warnings and stop-work orders for violations of the codes. Depending on assignment: Reviews building plans, permit application information and inspects buildings during construction, alteration, or repair work for compliance with building codes. May produce certificates of occupancy and building occupancy loads.

Writes letters or reports of code compliance or noncompliance, inspection warrants, and notices of violations for noncompliance. Completes inspection reports and maintains records regarding inspections, using appropriate database systems. Responds to citizen complaints and helps property owners to resolve complaints and code violations.

Answers questions and updates citizens, contractors, designers, and builders regarding code enforcement and/or future changes to the building codes. Assists in the coordination and the dissemination of information with interdepartmental or intergovernmental impact. Safely operates a city vehicle in the performance of duties.

Testifies in court on code violation cases as needed. Conducts code inspections as required. Responsible for appropriate use and maintenance of City equipment, tools, and other resources, including work time.

Regular and reliable attendance. Other Duties: May perform after-hours inspection/investigation of buildings where fires and structural failures or damage have occurred. May cross-train in related areas, as needed or assigned.

May represent the department on various organizational committees. Performs additional duties to support operational requirements as apparent or assigned. Education, Experience and Skills Education and Experience: Candidates may qualify by demonstrating the required knowledge and skills outlined for the job through experience(s) other than formal education such as college.

High School Diploma or GED AND at least 3 years of experience and general knowledge in at least one of the following areas: building construction; building construction conceptual and administrative processes; building, fire or housing inspections; plumbing, electrical or mechanical trades; or fire protection, elevator or property maintenance work. OR An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of the specific requirements listed above that would confer equivalent knowledge and ability. (13VAC5-63-50, Code of Virginia).

Certifications/Licenses/Other Requirements: Within 18 months of start date, must obtain certification per the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code, (Virginia Certification Standards). Must obtain and maintain a valid Virginia driver's license and acceptable driving record according to city criteria. Required to successfully pass a pre-employment background check and pre-employment drug screen.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics Job Knowledge General knowledge of building construction, materials and methods. Knowledge of Virginia construction codes and related laws and City ordinances. Knowledge of typical stages of construction to help advert possible violations and defects.

Working knowledge of poor workmanship, deficiencies, inferior materials, and hazards of fire and structural failures in buildings. Working knowledge of building construction, housing inspections, electrical, elevators, fire protection, mechanical, plumbing, and/or property maintenance. Reading Intermediate: ability to read and understand written materials such as newspapers, magazines, multi-step instruction manuals, reference materials, and building code materials.

Ability to read and interpret plans and specifications of ordinary complexity in timely manner and accurately compare them with construction in process. Writing Intermediate: ability to organize data and write clear and concise reports, prepare materials such as business letters, explanations, and summaries with proper format, punctuation, spelling, and grammar, using all parts of speech. Math Intermediate: ability to deal with number systems; simple formulas, practical application of fractions, percentages, ratios/proportions and measurement.

Communication Skills Intermediate: Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with co-workers, officials, agencies, businesses, and the public. Provides and receives standard to complex information. May include interactions that involve stressful, negative situations requiring significant tact and the ability to diffuse aggressive behavior and reach consensus.

Elements of persuasion may be necessary to gain cooperation and understanding. Independence and Decision-Making Requires General Direction: normally performs the job by following general instructions or established standard operating procedures and/or policies. There is some discretion when making decisions among a few easily identifiable choices of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties.

Performance is reviewed frequently. Technical Skills Skilled: comprehensive, practical knowledge of a technical field with use of analytical judgment and decision-making abilities appropriate to the assigned and apparent job responsibilities. Skill in the use of Microsoft office applications and department software.

Fiscal Responsibilities No budgetary/fiscal responsibilities. Supervisory Responsibilities No supervisory responsibilities. May assist helpers, co-workers, contractors, seasonal employees, interns or temps.

Other Characteristics Organization and time management skills, sometimes under strict time constraints. Working closely with others as part of a team. Tedious or exacting work.

Performing multiple tasks simultaneously. Frequent change of tasks. Constant interruptions and requests for service.

May require emergency response. May be required to work additional hours outside of normal schedule. May be required to work a non-traditional work schedule.

May require dealing with angry, frustrated and/or upset individuals. Physical Conditions & Additional Information Physical Demands: Light Work: Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Field work requires traversing interior and exterior of buildings, construction sites, and structures including uneven terrain and obstructions.

Must be able to climb, crawl, stoop, crouch, balance, and safety maneuver at indoor and outdoor work sites. Operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer. Occasionally moves about inside the office to access filing cabinets, office machinery, etc.

Must be able to communicate information and ideas so others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations. Regular interaction with citizens and businesses.

Ability to observe details at close range (within a few feet of the observer). Machines, Tools, Equipment, Software and Hardware: Typically requires use of standard office equipment and telephone, and related software and hardware; and any other equipment as appropriate or as assigned. Requires use of construction tools and inspection equipment.

Work Environment: A combination of on-site inspections and standard office environment. Required to climb, crawl and access various areas within or around buildings, properties and construction sites or during emergencies and in all weather conditions. Work requires visiting construction sites and exposure to extreme temperatures, extreme brightness or darkness, chemicals/hazardous waste, gases, electrical hazards, fumes/airborne particles.

May encounter exposure to inclement weather, wet or humid conditions, uneven terrain, noise, fumes, dusts and pollen, animals/wildlife, and traffic. Noise level varies from moderate to loud depending on the work site. The City of Charlottesville is an Equal Opportunity Employer and supports workforce diversity at all levels of the organization.

The City prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. The City is dedicated to this with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs, and general treatment during employment. Requests for reasonable accommodation by individuals with disabilities may be requested by contacting Human Resources at (434) 970-3490 or hr@charlottesville.gov

The City of Charlottesville conducts job related background checks, reference checks, and pre-employment drug tests, in accordance with federal, state, and local law, of applicants who reach the final stages of the employment selection process. The City's policy has not changed because of the decriminalization of marijuana in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Marijuana remains an illegal drug under federal law, and it continues to be a violation of the US Department of Transportation regulations and the City's policy prohibiting employees from testing positive for marijuana.