Construction and Building Inspectors
Description OES Code: 21908
Inspect new or remodeled construction to determine its soundness and compliance to 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 elevators.

Wages, California
Entry Level Hourly Wage $17.52
25th Percentile $19.85
50th Percentile $24.57
75th Percentile $28.39

Wages, San Joaquin
Entry Level Hourly Wage $16.65
25th Percentile $19.51
50th Percentile $23.45
75th Percentile $25.88

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Building Inspectors receive expense money for the use of their automobiles, for food, lodging, and incidentals when working away from home. They normally work 40 hours a week. Fringe benefits usually include paid vacations, holidays, sick leave, health and dental insurance, and a pension program.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 6,400
Projected Employment 2008 7,700
Percent Change 1998-2008 20.3%
Separations 1998-2008 1,800

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 90
Projected Employment 2006 100
Percent Change 1999-2006 11.1%
Separations 1999-2006 20

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
Construction and building inspectors usually work alone. However, several may be assigned to large, complex projects, particularly because inspectors tend to specialize in different areas of construction. Though they spend considerable time inspecting construction worksites, inspectors also spend time in a field office reviewing blueprints, answering letters or telephone calls, writing reports, and scheduling inspections.

Inspection sites are dirty and may be cluttered with tools, materials, or debris. Inspectors may have to climb ladders or many flights of stairs, or crawl around in tight spaces. Although their work generally is not considered hazardous, inspectors, like other construction workers, wear hard hats and adhere to other safety requirements while at a construction site.

Advancement
Promotions in public agencies within the State of California depend upon passing a series of written and/or oral civil service examinations for each higher level of the Building Inspector series. Building Inspectors usually promote to higher level positions, such as Senior Building Inspector, Principal Building Inspector, and Chief Building Inspector. Each higher level requires additional knowledge and experience, and usually requires supervisory responsibility. Upper level Building Inspectors are also expected to perform the entire range of moderate to difficult inspections of a variety of residences, commercial and industrial buildings. Certification, while not mandatory, also enhances a Building Inspector's chances for a higher paying, more responsible position.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Persons interested in the job of Building Inspector should apply at the federal, state, or local government offices where civil service examinations are announced, and take the written examination when scheduled. Applicants should in addition contact private building inspection companies and Building Inspector organizations, such as the International Conference of Building Officials.

For a list of current job listing, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Building Inspectors usually receive most of their training on the job. To become a Building Inspector, several years as a construction contractor, supervisor, or craft worker are generally required. Most employers also require an applicant to have a high school diploma. High school preparation should include courses in drafting, algebra, geometry, and English. Building Inspectors should have a thorough knowledge of construction materials and practices in either a general area like structural or heavy construction, or in a specific area such as electrical or plumbing systems, reinforced concrete, or structural steel. Many Building Inspectors have recent experience as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, or pipefitters. Many firms prefer Building Inspector applicants who have graduated from an apprenticeship program, have studied engineering or architecture for at least two years, or have a degree from a community college with courses in construction technology, blueprint reading, math, and building inspection. During the first couple of weeks, working with an experienced Building Inspector, they learn about inspection techniques; codes, ordinances, and regulations; contract specifications; and record keeping and reporting duties.

Skills & Other Requirements
Building Inspector applicants must be in good physical condition in order to walk and climb about construction sites. They also must have a motor vehicle operator's license. In addition, federal, state, and many local governments usually require that applicants pass a civil service examination. Many employers are also requiring that Building Inspector applicants possess a certification from the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO).

References
US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook

Related Occupations: Drafting, Industrial Engineering Technicians, Surveying Occupations, Architects

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)