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Commercial Building Inspector Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Marion

Chief Building Inspector

Marion, IA · On-site

$75K/yr

Chief Building Inspector Position Position Open Until Filled JOB INFORMATION Job Title: Chief ... Must have or be able to obtain Commercial & Residential Building, Plumbing, Electrical, Mechanical ...

City of Marion

Chief Building Inspector

Marion, IA · On-site

Chief Building Inspector Position Position Open Until Filled JOB INFORMATION Job Title: Chief ... Must have or be able to obtain Commercial & Residential Building, Plumbing, Electrical, Mechanical ...

Andersen

Quality Inspector - 2nd Shift (4x10)

Dubuque, IA

$25.05 - $28.27/hr

... commercial building sector. Join our more than 13,000 employees who are inspired every day to ... Inspect painted metal against engineering specifications. * Use several different quality measuring ...

MalaceHR

Operating Engineer

Des Moines, IA

$67K - $91K/yr

MalaceHR is seeking an experienced Operating Engineer to support the operation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of commercial building systems. This position is responsible for ensuring the safe ...

R.P. Lumber

Driver CDL

Blue Grass, IA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

A Driver CDL must exhibit excellent product knowledge of lumber and building materials and ensure ... daily equipment inspections in accordance with the company's safety guidelines. Other ...

RP Lumber

Driver CDL

Blue Grass, IA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

A Driver CDL must exhibit excellent product knowledge of lumber and building materials and ensure ... daily equipment inspections in accordance with the company's safety guidelines. Other ...

JLL

Building Engineering - Multiple Openings

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Whether you've got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you ... This includes conducting inspections, performing repairs, coordinating equipment upgrades, and ...

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All JobsCommercial Building Inspector JobsCommercial Building Inspector Jobs in Iowa

Commercial Building Inspector information

See Iowa salary details

$33.8K

$64.7K

$96.7K

How much do commercial building inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for commercial building inspector in Iowa is $64,698.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,700.00 and $76,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Commercial Building Inspector, you need a strong understanding of building codes, construction practices, and safety regulations, typically supported by relevant certifications like ICC or state licensure. Familiarity with inspection software, digital reporting tools, and measurement devices is essential. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities help inspectors deliver accurate assessments and collaborate with construction professionals. These skills and qualifications ensure that buildings are safe, compliant, and constructed to the highest standards.

What does a commercial building inspector do?

A Commercial Building Inspector is responsible for assessing commercial properties to ensure they comply with building codes, safety regulations, and local ordinances. They examine structural integrity, electrical systems, plumbing, fire safety measures, and overall construction quality during different phases of a building’s lifecycle. Inspectors document their findings in detailed reports and may recommend repairs or improvements to maintain compliance and safety. Their work helps protect the public by ensuring that commercial buildings are safe and up to code.

What is the difference between Commercial Building Inspector vs Residential Building Inspector?

AspectCommercial Building InspectorResidential Building Inspector
CertificationsICC Commercial Building Inspector, state-specific licensesICC Residential Building Inspector, state licenses
Work EnvironmentCommercial properties, office buildings, retail centersSingle-family homes, apartment complexes
Employer & IndustryConstruction firms, government agencies, private inspectorsHomeowners, residential construction companies, local governments

Commercial Building Inspectors focus on evaluating commercial properties for safety and code compliance, often requiring specialized certifications. Residential Building Inspectors primarily assess homes and small residential buildings. While both roles involve building code enforcement, their work environments and certification requirements differ, reflecting the distinct needs of commercial versus residential properties.

What are some common challenges faced by commercial building inspectors during property assessments?

Commercial building inspectors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex building systems, staying current with evolving codes and regulations, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders like property managers, contractors, and engineers. Inspections may involve tight deadlines, unexpected site conditions, and the need for thorough documentation. Developing strong communication and problem-solving skills is essential for addressing these challenges and ensuring compliance while maintaining positive working relationships.
What are popular job titles related to Commercial Building Inspector jobs in Iowa? For Commercial Building Inspector jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Commercial Building Inspector jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Commercial Building Inspector jobs in Iowa are:
Commercial Building Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Commercial Building Inspector job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,698 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Chief Building Inspector

City of Marion

Marion, IA • On-site

$75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 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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