Construction and Building Inspectors
Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed
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.
Median pay: $74,690/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -0.8% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 14,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Approve building plans that meet required specifications.
• Review and interpret plans, blueprints, site layouts, specifications, or construction methods to ensure compliance to legal requirements and safety regulations.
• Issue permits for construction, relocation, demolition, or occupancy.
• Inspect bridges, dams, highways, buildings, wiring, plumbing, electrical circuits, sewers, heating systems, or foundations during and after construction for structural quality, general safety, or conformance to specifications and codes.
• Monitor installation of plumbing, wiring, equipment, or appliances to ensure that installation is performed properly and is in compliance with applicable regulations.
• Inspect and monitor construction sites to ensure adherence to safety standards, building codes, or specifications.
• Confer with owners, violators, or authorities to explain regulations or recommend remedial actions.
• Measure dimensions and verify level, alignment, or elevation of structures or fixtures to ensure compliance to building plans and codes.
What's the median pay for Construction and Building Inspectors?
The median pay for Construction and Building Inspectors is $74,690 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Construction and Building Inspectors?
Employment for Construction and Building Inspectors is projected to change -0.8% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Construction and Building Inspectors?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Construction and Building Inspectors?
About 14,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.