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.
SOC: 47-4011.00
Common Job Titles
Building Code Administrator
Building Inspector
Building Official
Construction Inspector
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key 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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
