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Entry Level Construction Inspector Jobs in Portland, OR

TC Staffing

Be Seen First

NOW HIRING: Production Team Members - No Experience Needed

Portland, OR · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

This is a hands-on, entry-level role with paid training, bus-friendly location (Swing only) , and ... If you've worked in restaurants, cleaning, construction, warehouses, or any hands-on job, you'll ...

TC Staffing

Be Seen First

NOW HIRING: Production Team Members - No Experience Needed

Portland, OR · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

This is a hands-on, entry-level role with paid training, bus-friendly location (Swing only) , and ... If you've worked in restaurants, cleaning, construction, warehouses, or any hands-on job, you'll ...

TAPANI, Inc.

Project Engineer (Civil)

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$23.23 - $34.84/hr

Track permit-related inspections (e.g., building, plumbing, ROW, special access). * Monitor ... * Entry-level position; prior internship or field experience in construction preferred Job Type ...

Kiewit

Traveling Equipment Engineer

Vancouver, WA · On-site

... As an Entry Level Equipment Engineer, you will support Construction & Mining operations. This ... Inspections of equipment and parts * Logistics management and communication * Long/short range ...

WSP

Substation Civil Engineer

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

... research and inspections of proposed and existing site conditions, resources, building ... construction or operating permits. * Perform routine engineering functions and provide entry-level ...

WSP

Substation Civil Engineer

Lake Oswego, OR

... research and inspections of proposed and existing site conditions, resources, building ... construction or operating permits. * Perform routine engineering functions and provide entry-level ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsConstruction Inspector JobsEntry Level Construction Inspector JobsEntry Level Construction Inspector Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Construction Inspector information

See Portland, OR salary details

$34.5K

$70.3K

$124.1K

How much do entry level construction inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level construction inspector in Portland, OR is $70,259.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $82,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you become a building inspector with no experience?

Entry level construction inspector positions typically require some knowledge of building codes and construction processes, but many employers offer on-the-job training for candidates with no prior experience. Obtaining relevant certifications, such as a building inspector license, can improve job prospects, though initial roles may be available to those with a basic understanding of construction and safety standards. Experience in related trades or technical education can also be beneficial for entry-level candidates.

How can I get a construction job with no experience?

Entry level construction inspector roles often require some knowledge of construction processes and safety protocols, but many employers hire candidates with little to no experience if they demonstrate a willingness to learn and have basic skills such as attention to detail and physical fitness. Gaining relevant certifications like OSHA safety training or construction fundamentals can improve your chances, and starting as a laborer or apprentice can provide valuable on-the-job experience to qualify for inspector positions later.

What does an Entry Level Construction Inspector do?

An Entry Level Construction Inspector assists in monitoring construction sites to ensure that work is being performed according to plans, specifications, and safety regulations. They typically observe construction activities, take notes, and report any issues to senior inspectors or project managers. Their role may also include measuring materials, testing workmanship, and documenting progress. This position serves as a foundation for gaining experience in construction quality assurance and learning industry standards.

What certifications do I need to be a construction inspector?

Entry level construction inspectors typically need certifications such as OSHA safety training and may pursue industry-specific credentials like the NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) certification. These certifications demonstrate knowledge of safety standards, construction practices, and quality control, which are essential for the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Construction Inspector vs Construction Inspector?

AspectEntry Level Construction InspectorConstruction Inspector
CertificationsHigh school diploma; some may pursue OSHA or NICET certificationsTypically requires NICET certification or equivalent
Work EnvironmentOn-site inspections, supervision of construction activitiesOn-site and office work, reviewing plans and reports
ExperienceEntry-level, limited experience requiredSeveral years of experience in construction inspection
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, government agenciesConstruction firms, public infrastructure projects

The main difference is experience and certification level. Entry Level Construction Inspectors are just starting out, often with minimal certifications, focusing on learning and assisting. Construction Inspectors have more experience and certifications, handling more complex inspections and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Construction Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Construction Inspector, a basic understanding of construction practices, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent are essential. Familiarity with inspection tools, digital reporting software, and sometimes certifications like OSHA 10 are commonly required. Strong observational skills, effective communication, and reliability set outstanding inspectors apart. These skills and qualities ensure that construction projects meet safety and quality standards, reducing risks and ensuring regulatory compliance.

How much do entry-level construction inspectors make?

Entry-level construction inspectors typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location, employer, and experience. Starting salaries may be lower in some regions, but with certification and experience, pay can increase. The role often requires knowledge of construction codes and inspection tools.

What are some typical challenges an entry level construction inspector might face during their first projects?

As an entry level construction inspector, you may encounter challenges such as learning to interpret complex construction plans, adapting to varying site conditions, and communicating effectively with contractors and project managers. Balancing multiple inspection tasks while ensuring safety and compliance with codes can also be demanding. However, with guidance from senior inspectors and hands-on experience, you’ll quickly develop the necessary skills and confidence to handle these situations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Construction Inspector jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Construction Inspector jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Construction Inspector jobs in Portland, OR? For Entry Level Construction Inspector jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Construction Inspector jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Construction Inspector jobs in Portland, OR are:
Entry Level Construction Inspector jobs near you
Project Manager I (PM1) - Building Envelope Consulting

Project Manager I (PM1) - Building Envelope Consulting

J2 Building Consultants

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Salary: $65,000 - $77,000

Ready to Grow Beyond "Assistant PM" Work?

At J2 Building Consultants, PM1 is more than an entry-level title.


This role is designed for someone who already understands construction fundamentals and is ready to start owning projects, building technical expertise, and developing in a fully independent Project Manager.


You'll work alongside experienced PMs and technical leaders on building envelope consulting projects involving roofing, waterproofing, cladding, windows, and exterior wall systems.


If you enjoy balancing field work, technical problem-solving, client interaction, and project coordination - you'll likely thrive here.


What You'll Do

Run Smaller Projects + Support Complex Ones
Manage smaller projects independently, while assisting PM2s, PM3s, and Senior PMs on larger or more technical assignments.

Get Into the Field
Perform site visits and inspections, document existing conditions, and help evaluate building envelope systems.

Build Technical Skills
Learn how to assess roofing, waterproofing, cladding, and exterior building systems while developing report-writing and consulting skills.

Coordinate Projects

Help keep projects moving by coordinating schedules, site visits, subcontractors, documentation, and deliverables.

Communicate with Clients

Serve as a day-to-day contact for assigned projects and provide professional updates to clients and stakeholders.


Coordinate inspections, schedules, subcontractors, and internal teams to ensure tasks stay on track.

If this sounds like you, heres a deeper dive into the role:


What Were Looking For:

13 years of experience in construction, architecture, engineering, consulting or project management
Foundational knowledge of construction systems
Interest in building envelope consulting, roofing, waterproofing, or exterior systems
Strong organizational and communication skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities without dropping details

Comfortable with both office work and field/site inspections
Bachelors degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or related field preferred
EIT, PMP, or industry certifications are a plus


What Success Looks Like in This Role

You're someone who:

Asks questions

Takes initiative

Follows through

Communicates well

Wants to become highly technical over time

Enjoys solving real-world building problems


This role is ideal for someone moving up from:

Assistant PM

Project Engineer

Construction Coordinator

Roofing or Exterior Systems PM support

Consulting or inspection support roles


Working Conditions

This role combines office work and field/site inspections.

You should be comfortable:
Traveling locally to project sites
Climbing ladders and accessing roofs
Working outdoors in varying weather
Navigating elevated or confined areas as needed
Lifting up to 50lbs.


What Youll Get:

Competitive salary + performance bonus
100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employee coverage
401(k) with company match
Paid vacation and sick time, plus 8 holidays
HSA, Costco & Gym membership reimbursements
Monthly cell phone reimbursement
Company-paid Life, AD&D, and Disability insurance
Professional development support
A collaborative team that actually likes working together


J2 Building Consultants is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a professional and respectful workplace. We consider applicants based on qualifications, experience, and business needs.

Ready to Apply?

Were looking for someone whos motivated, curious, detail-oriented, and ready to grow into a strong Project Manager.


No ghost posting. No resume black hole.

Just a real team reading real applications.


(And yes, an over-caffeinated HR person really is reviewing them. )