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Residential Building Inspector Jobs in Minnesota

The Residential Building Designer is responsible for creating and coordinating residential and ... Working closely with clients, contractors, subcontractors, inspectors, Sales, Estimating, and ...

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Residential Building Inspector information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do residential building inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for residential building inspector in Minnesota is $25.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Residential Building Inspector, you need a solid understanding of building codes, construction practices, and inspection procedures, usually backed by relevant certifications or a background in construction or engineering. Familiarity with inspection software, digital reporting tools, and code reference systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and impartial judgment are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensuring residential structures are safe, code-compliant, and built to high standards.

What does a residential building inspector do?

A residential building inspector examines homes and other residential structures to ensure they comply with local building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards. Their main duties include inspecting construction, renovation, and repair work at various stages, identifying code violations, and documenting their findings. They often provide guidance to builders and homeowners on how to correct issues and ensure the property is safe and habitable. Inspectors may specialize in areas such as electrical, plumbing, or structural inspections, depending on their certifications and local requirements.

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

AspectResidential Building InspectorCommercial Building Inspector
CertificationsBuilding codes, residential inspection certificationsBuilding codes, commercial inspection certifications
Work EnvironmentResidential sites, homes, apartmentsCommercial properties, office buildings, retail spaces
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, local government, residential developersCommercial developers, government agencies, property managers

Both roles involve inspecting buildings to ensure compliance with safety and building codes, but Residential Building Inspectors focus on homes and residential structures, while Commercial Building Inspectors evaluate commercial properties. The certifications, work environments, and employers overlap significantly, but each specializes in different property types.

What is a residential building inspector?

A residential building inspector ensures each home within their region or city meets construction requirements and residential building code rules. Your job duties include visiting a residential property and inspecting it for compliance and overall safety and quality. Your responsibilities may also require you to examine a building after a renovation or repair project. Most cities and counties issue a permit for specific residential improvements. An inspector must look at the structure after the permitted project is done to make sure that everything is still up to code.

What does it take to be a residential building inspector?

A residential building inspector typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant experience in construction or building trades. Many states require certification or licensing, which involves passing exams and gaining knowledge of building codes and safety standards. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and familiarity with inspection tools are also important for the role.

Are residential building inspectors in high demand?

Residential building inspectors are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, renovation projects, and the need for code compliance. Employment for this role is expected to grow as building regulations become more stringent and new housing developments increase, often requiring certifications and knowledge of local building codes.

What are some common challenges residential building inspectors face during site inspections?

Residential Building Inspectors often encounter challenges such as interpreting evolving building codes, managing tight inspection schedules, and communicating complex findings to homeowners and contractors. Weather conditions and access limitations can also impact the ability to thoroughly inspect certain areas. Successfully overcoming these challenges requires strong attention to detail, up-to-date knowledge of local regulations, and effective interpersonal skills to ensure compliance and safety standards are met.

What are popular job titles related to Residential Building Inspector jobs in Minnesota?

For Residential Building Inspector jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Residential Building Inspector jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Residential Building Inspector jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Residential Building Inspector jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Residential Building Inspector job openings:

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For Residential Building Inspector jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Residential Building Inspector job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,218 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Residential Building Designer

QXO

Saint Cloud, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


QXO rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

115th of 416 rated retail wholesalers


Job description

QXO is a leading distributor and installer of building products serving an $800 billion market. The company's mission is to modernize the building products industry through advanced technology and a best-in-class customer experience. QXO is North America's largest distributor and installer of insulation, the second-largest distributor of roofing products, the second-largest publicly traded distributor of lumber and building materials, and the largest distributor of waterproofing products. The company is targeting $50 billion in annual revenue within the decade through accretive acquisitions and organic growth. For more information, visit QXO.com.
What you'll do:
The Residential Building Designer is responsible for creating and coordinating residential and light commercial building designs from initial concept through completed construction documentation. This role develops detailed floor plans, foundation plans, elevations, building sections, roof plans, and site plans using Revit, AutoCAD, and other approved design software.
Working closely with clients, contractors, subcontractors, inspectors, Sales, Estimating, and internal project teams, the Construction Designer translates customer needs into practical, code-compliant, and visually appealing designs. The ideal candidate combines technical drafting expertise, residential construction knowledge, creative problem-solving, and strong customer communication skills.
Design & Construction Documentation
  • Create and coordinate designs for single-family homes, twin homes, remodeling projects, and occasional light commercial projects
  • Prepare detailed construction documents, including:
    • Floor plans
    • Foundation plans
    • Exterior elevations
    • Building sections
    • Roof plans
    • Site plans
    • Construction details
  • Produce accurate drawings using Revit, AutoCAD, and other approved drafting and design software
  • Revise drawings throughout the design process based on customer feedback, field conditions, code requirements, and project changes
  • Ensure design documents are complete, coordinated, and suitable for estimating, permitting, and construction

Residential Construction Design
  • Apply knowledge of residential construction materials, methods, and building systems when developing designs
  • Design and detail foundation systems, wall framing, stairs, floor systems, roof systems, and insulation assemblies
  • Incorporate structural components such as beams, headers, girders, and related framing elements into project documents
  • Research and develop alternate construction details and methods, including energy-efficient technologies and materials
  • Evaluate designs for constructability, practicality, aesthetics, and alignment with customer expectations

Code & Technical Review
  • Review designs for compliance with the International Residential Code and applicable local requirements
  • Research building code provisions and technical requirements when project conditions require clarification
  • Identify potential construction conflicts, missing information, or design concerns before documents are issued
  • Coordinate technical questions with contractors, subcontractors, inspectors, and internal stakeholders
  • Maintain current knowledge of residential construction practices, materials, and industry developments

Client & Project Coordination
  • Lead client meetings to gather project requirements, review design phases, and present recommendations
  • Guide clients through the design process while clearly communicating options, limitations, costs, and next steps
  • Conduct site visits and measure existing conditions for remodeling or renovation projects
  • Coordinate project information and design changes with clients, contractors, subcontractors, inspectors, and internal teams
  • Provide exceptional service to both external and internal customers
  • Manage multiple design projects, priorities, and deadlines simultaneously

Estimating & Work Order Support
  • Analyze project requirements and assist with estimating project costs
  • Prepare work orders, contracts, and supporting project documentation
  • Coordinate with Estimating and Sales to ensure design scope, pricing assumptions, and customer expectations are aligned
  • Maintain accurate project files, design records, revisions, and client documentation

Industry Engagement & Continuous Improvement
  • Attend trade shows, training seminars, builders' association meetings, and similar industry events
  • Represent the company at trade shows, including occasional weekend events
  • Stay current on construction trends, design technology, energy-efficient solutions, and building practices
  • Identify opportunities to improve design quality, workflow efficiency, and customer experience
  • Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned

What you'll bring:
  • Strong architectural drafting and residential design skills
  • Advanced understanding of new-home construction materials, methods, and processes
  • Ability to combine creative design concepts with practical construction requirements
  • Strong knowledge of foundation, wall, stair, floor, roof, and insulation systems
  • Understanding of structural framing components and their placement
  • Strong creative and technical problem-solving abilities
  • Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills
  • Strong customer service and relationship-building abilities
  • Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple projects independently
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to drawing accuracy
  • Ability to research and interpret building code requirements
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
  • Associate degree or diploma in Architectural Technology, Drafting, Construction Design, or a related field
  • Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a related discipline preferred; architectural licensure is not required
  • Approximately three years of architectural drafting, residential design, or related experience preferred
  • Proficiency with Revit and AutoCAD
  • Experience preparing residential construction documents and coordinating design projects
  • Education may be considered in place of some professional experience
  • Experience with remodeling, single-family housing, twin homes, or light commercial design is preferred
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
  • Work is performed primarily in a climate-controlled office environment
  • Extensive computer, drafting, and fine-motor work is required
  • Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods
  • Occasional standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, and climbing may be required during site visits
  • Site visits may require walking on uneven surfaces and moving into varied positions to obtain accurate measurements
  • Ability to occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull plans, equipment, or materials weighing up to 25 pounds
  • Occasional local travel to customer sites, project locations, meetings, trade shows, or training events
  • Ability to wear required PPE when visiting active construction sites
  • Some evening or weekend availability may be required for trade shows or project commitments

What you'll earn
  • Pay: $23-26/hour
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • PTO, company holidays, and parental leave

QXO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender or sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.

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