Construction and Building Inspectors
Inspect structures using engineering skills to determine structural soundness and compliance with specifications, building codes, and other regulations. Inspections may be general in nature or may be limited to a specific area, such as electrical systems or plumbing.
Common Job Titles
- Building Code Administrator
- Building Inspector
- Building Official
- Construction Inspector
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeSynthesize current building codes with emerging construction technologies and materials through continuous professional development and application of updated regulatory knowledge.Advanced
- KnowledgeEvaluate structural compliance with building codes, specifications, and safety regulations across residential, commercial, and industrial construction sites using engineering principles.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform detailed physical inspections of electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems using specialized testing equipment such as multimeters, infrared thermometers, and moisture meters.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze construction documents, blueprints, and technical specifications to identify potential code violations and structural deficiencies before and during construction.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret building codes, zoning ordinances, and regulatory requirements for diverse stakeholders including contractors, property owners, and municipal officials.Proficient
- MindsetReconcile public safety priorities with construction project timelines and contractor concerns when negotiating compliance remediation plans under regulatory constraints.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess structural soundness and safety hazards in existing and new construction independently in field environments, applying knowledge of physics and engineering principles.Proficient
- KnowledgeCompare inspection findings against established quality and safety standards to determine approval, conditional approval, or rejection of construction phases.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate computerized data collection systems and inspection documentation software to record findings, generate compliance reports, and maintain regulatory databases.Developing
- MindsetEngage with property owners, contractors, and the public to explain violations, recommend corrective actions, and ensure understanding of safety requirements.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Construction and Building Inspectors (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
137,210
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $46,560. 25th percentile: U.S. $57,300. 50th percentile: U.S. $72,120. 75th percentile: U.S. $92,330. 90th percentile: U.S. $112,320. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $46,560 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $112,320 |
| Workers on average earn | $76,430 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Building and Construction4.7/5
- Public Safety and Security4.0/5
- English Language4.0/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.6/5
- Law and Government3.5/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Project
- Microsoft Word
- Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- Arc Second PocketCAD
- Automated permit system software
- Calendar and scheduling software
- Database software
- ESRI ArcView
- Email software
- Inspection Depot Home Guide System
- Internet browser software
Tools & Equipment
- 10-key calculators
- Adjustable widemouth pliers
- Adjustable wrenches
- Air sampling devices
- Air sampling pumps
- Air velocity and temperature meters
- Airflow meters
- Arc receptacle testers