Jobs and Careers

Building Inspector Associate

United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 24 Jul 2026

About the role

What You'll Be Doing

We are looking for hard workers interested in becoming a certified Wake County general inspector!

Wake County is recruiting for a Building Inspector Associate. This is an entry-level position for someone with an aptitude for learning and an interest in the construction/building trades.

The Associate will work closely with experienced inspectors to learn and apply the principles of building inspection. The selected candidate will assist in conducting inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal building codes, regulations, and ordinances. As part of the Wake County inspection’s team, you will ensure compliance with the North Carolina Technical Codes to promote public health and safety of County residents.

We provide on-the-job training for this benefits-eligible position, as well as paid travel and training for required coursework to achieve certifications necessary to perform State mandated inspections. Associate Inspectors must achieve a level 2 certification within three years of hire to remain employed. During employment, candidates will:

1) Attend all necessary classroom training and have passing grades on coursework and exams.
2) Earn one standard level I course and state exam within three years
3) Receive successful scores on quarterly performance evaluations that will be conducted to monitor progress.
4) Be eligible for step increases for each certificate earned

What does a typical day look like?

Forty-hour workweeks include time spent in the field or completing approved classwork, testing and other continuing education requirements toward standard level credentials.
You will spend most of your time shadowing an experienced building inspector during inspections of new construction, renovations, and alterations to existing structures. You will learn to interpret and enforce building codes, zoning regulations, and other applicable laws.
Communicates with homeowners, builders, contractors, and others concerning complaints that may be code violations. Assesses situations and provides solutions pertaining to relevant codes.
Assists in permit reviews to correct any items that are contrary to building code requirements and standards. Plans review must be completed in a timely manner.

About Our Team

Planning & Development Services provides building inspections and permitting services for the unincorporated areas of Wake County and the towns of Knightdale, Rolesville, Wendell and Zebulon. Field inspectors are based out of three regional centers located across the county with main offices in downtown Raleigh.

The Basics (Required Education and Experience)

High School or GED
One year of experience in construction or trades (electrical, mechanical, or plumbing/HVAC) or regulatory/government position. One year of trade school education is accepted as equivalent to one year experience.
Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record
Equivalent education and experience are accepted

Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Beyond the Basics (Preferred Education and Experience)

Direct work experience with Building, Electrical, Plumbing, or Mechanical trades
Completed courses in Building, Electrical, Plumbing, or Mechanical trades

How Will We Know You're 'The One'?

Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures.
Excellent communication and customer service skills with the ability to cooperatively resolve issues quickly and accurately, while building relationships with internal personnel and external contacts.
Ability to work independently in carrying out oral and written instructions.
Ability to use computer and smart phone for communication, data entry, and record keeping.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.