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Entry Level Construction Inspector Jobs in Seattle, WA

... in the construction and sale of high quality homes designed principally for the entry-level and ... Inspect each home daily to assure the quality of workmanship, ensure all work is in accordance with ...

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Entry Level Construction Inspector information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$37K

$75.4K

$133.1K

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

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level construction inspector in Seattle, WA is $75,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $88,800.00 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 Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Construction Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Construction Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA? For Entry Level Construction Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Construction Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Construction Inspector jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Entry Level Construction Inspector jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Entry Level Construction Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Construction Inspector job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 75% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,393 per year, or $36.2 per hour.
Plans Examiner/Building Inspector I

Plans Examiner/Building Inspector I

City of Auburn

Auburn, WA

$94K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Position Details This position is open until filled, with a first review of applications on Monday, July 27, 2026. To be considered for the first round of screening, your application must be received by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on Sunday, July 26, 2026 The City of Auburn Community Development department is looking for a talented Plans Examiner/Building Inspector I to add to our team

This position performs technical work in the inspection of building and site improvements, including structural, plumbing, and mechanical construction for compliance with adopted building codes, local ordinances, applicable regulations, and approved plans/specifications. The position also assists with permit review activities and may perform residential and limited commercial plan review assignments under the guidance of senior staff. The position serves as an entry-level role designed to develop the knowledge, skills, certifications, and experience necessary for increasingly complex inspection and plan review responsibilities.

This entry-level position offers an opportunity for increasing level of responsibilities and professional development. Advancement to Plans Examiner/Building Inspector II is contingent upon demonstrated proficiency in inspection duties, successful completion of assigned plan review activities (checklist), acquisition of required certifications, and the operational needs of the department. REQUIRED SKILLS Knowledge of codes and regulations both at state and local levels: Expertise in building codes, zoning ordinances, and safety standards.

Technical Understanding: Strong familiarity with construction methods structural design principles, and plan review processes. Inspection technique: Ability to conduct daily thorough on- site inspections construction projects to ensure code compliance. Problem solving: Ability to identify building code violations and provide a detailed written report to ensure code compliance.

Customer service: Ability to interact professionally with contractors, developers, homeowners, and the general public to address concerns and provide guidance. Adaptability: Ability to work in varying environmental conditions and respond to changing priorities. Technology proficiency: Competence in using inspection software and tools to document and record findings.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT The Community Development team is intelligent, creative, fun and supportive of each other. It is a team that values individual opinions, diversity of thought, new ways of approaching our work, better ways of delivering our services, and appreciation and respect for each other. The Department is a dynamic and multi-cultural team that is dedicated to diversity, equity and inclusion in our workplace and in the service we provide to our community.

The Department's leadership team is committed to fostering a positive work environment, investing in professional growth, and encouraging innovation and process improvement. Primary Duties In this role you will: Inspect structural, plumbing, and mechanical installations for compliance with the appropriate codes, applicable regulations, and approved plans and specification. Perform inspections independently but conducts plan review assignments under general supervision and guidance from senior staff.

Initiate discussions with contractors and property owners related to construction corrections, when necessary. Understand construction drawings and construction principles and independently reads and interprets construction plans, blueprints, schematic drawings, and construction specifications in both electronic and paper forms. Maintain current knowledge, and engages in continuing education, of building construction technology and codes including standards, practices, and methods of all types of residential and commercial construction.

While these duties may be the primary focus of this job, the full description includes a more comprehensive list of responsibilities. Click Here to review the class specification. Minimum Qualifications Required Qualifications: Two (2) years of college-level course work in building technology or related field and two (2) years of journey-level experience in general building construction.

Experience as a Building Inspector or Plans Examiner in a public agency may substitute for the education and experience on a year for year basis OR any combination of experience, certification, training, and/or education that demonstrates the ability to successfully perform the essential duties of the position. Required Licenses and Certifications Posses and retain a valid state driver's license without impending loss at time of appointment Certifications from the International Code Council (ICC) as a Residential Building Inspector and Commercial Building Inspector OR applicant required to obtain certifications within first year of employment. Additional Information WHY CHOOSE THE CITY OF AUBURN.

Competitive salary Excellent medical, dental, and vision plans with employee premiums paid by the City Employer contributions to the State Retirement System pension plans 12 days of paid vacation per year 11 paid holidays per year 2 paid floating holidays of your choice per year VEBA (tax-free health savings account) Optional Flexible Spending benefit plan Deferred Compensation plan options Employee Wellness Program Employee Assistance Program And more. For more information about what benefits the City provides, please visit: https://auburn.attract.neogov.com/p/benefits COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION Team Auburn values diverse perspectives, life experiences, and welcomes applications from people who will help us consistently demonstrate the values of equity, respect, and partnership. The department encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including Black, Indigenous, and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, and veterans

Individuals interested in joining our team must be committed to racial, social, and economic equality for ALL people in our community. The City of Auburn is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer. No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class.

Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation. To learn more about the Inclusive Auburn initiative, please visit: https://www.auburnwa.gov/InclusiveAuburn READY TO APPLY. If you are interested in pursuing this position, please follow the application instructions carefully

If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, or would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process, please contact the recruiter listed on this job announcement. RECRUITMENT PROCESS The City of Auburn is dedicated to building an inclusive, informed city, with opportunities for all. In alignment with that goal, the City has adopted an anonymous application process that prevents hiring managers from seeing personal identifiers, including names, addresses, and other similar information.

This eliminates the possibility of unintentional or implicit bias during the initial screening of applications. For that reason, hiring managers will not be viewing any attachments to your application, including a cover letter or resume, during the initial screening. Please make sure to submit a complete, detailed, and updated job application, and thoroughly answer the supplemental questions prior to the submission deadline.

You must meet the minimum qualifications to move forward in the screening process. Please note that if you are selected to move forward after an interview, a background check, driving abstract review, and reference check will be completed before an official job offer will be made. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CITY OF AUBURN We primarily communicate via e-mail during the recruitment process.

E-mails from auburnwa.gov and/or governmentjobs.com should be placed on your safe domain list to ensure you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk e-mail folders. CONTACT INFORMATION If you have any questions, please contact Chardae Gillespie, HR Coordinator, at cgillespie@auburnwa.gov.