Senior Commercial Building Inspector (CBI)

Responsibilities

Full-Time

Location: Washington, DC (On-Site / Field-Based)

We are seeking a highly experienced and fully qualified Senior Commercial Building Inspector (CBI) to perform inspections on commercial (non-residential) structures in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. This role supports complex, small- and large-scale projects, including highly visible federal projects in Washington, D.C. Inspections will also consist of small tenant fit-outs to large renovations and new-builds.

The selected candidate will ensure compliance with all applicable building codes, safety standards, and regulatory requirements. This is a senior-level, field-based role requiring advanced technical expertise, independent judgment, and high-level coordination with stakeholders.

Local candidates are strongly preferred. Relocation benefits will be considered for highly qualified candidates willing to commit to multi-year assignments.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive field inspections to ensure compliance with building, fire, and life safety codes
• Inspect all phases of construction including foundation, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, energy, and life safety systems
• Review construction documents, plans, and specifications for code compliance and constructability
• Identify deficiencies, interpret complex code issues, and document violations with precision
• Prepare detailed, audit-ready inspection reports and maintain accurate records
• Coordinate with contractors, engineers, architects, government officials, and project stakeholders
• Interpret and apply applicable codes, standards, and regulations (e.g., International Code Council (ICC) International Building Code)
• Support quality assurance, compliance protocols, and regulatory oversight activities
• Provide technical guidance and resolve complex field issues with minimal supervision
• Support and coordinate full-day inspections with stakeholders, promoting collaboration, engagement, and providing clear, real-time responses to questions
• Attend meetings with stakeholders to discuss and help resolve building code deficiencies and provide updates on inspection status

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in commercial construction, inspection, or related field.
• ICC Commercial Combination Inspector certification is required at the time of hire. Additional ICC certifications (Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fire Inspector, Plans Examiner) are strongly preferred; where not already held, they must be obtained within a defined and reasonable timeframe (typically 6 months of hire).
• Strong working knowledge of the International Building Code and related codes (mechanical, plumbing, electrical, energy, fire, life safety).
• Demonstrated experience inspecting complex commercial structures, including:
  • Restaurants and food service establishments
  • Commercial and business facilities
  • New construction and tenant build-outs
  • Transit facilities (e.g., stations, terminals)
  • Multi-tenant retail complexes, including common areas and life safety systems
  • High-occupancy public spaces with shared egress and accessibility requirements
• Demonstrated ability to read, interpret, and analyze complex construction drawings and technical specifications
• Valid driver's license

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field.
• Active professional licensure as one of the following (strongly preferred; may be required depending on assignment):
  • Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA)
  • Certified Construction Manager
  • Licensure as a Master Tradesman (Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing)
• Certified Building Official (CBO) designation
• NFPA certifications (life safety systems, fire protection systems)
• Experience working with federal, state, or local government agencies

Certification Requirement

• Candidates who do not possess all preferred ICC certifications at time of hire may still be considered; however:
• The ICC Commercial Combination Inspector certification is required at hire
• The willingness and ability to obtain one or more of the additional required certifications within a defined and reasonable timeframe (typically 6 months) is required.

Note: Employer sponsorship (training materials, exam fees) is typically provided. A bonus is paid for each certificate obtained.

Competencies

• Advanced technical expertise in commercial construction and inspection practices
• Deep knowledge of building codes and regulatory compliance
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capability
• High attention to detail and documentation accuracy
• Ability to operate independently with minimal supervision
• Strong communication and stakeholder coordination skills
• Sound professional judgment and decision-making ability

Why Work for Us?

• Make a Direct Impact on Communities

This work goes beyond inspections—the inspector will play a critical role in protecting public safety, strengthening infrastructure, and supporting resilient communities across the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Every project you inspect contributes to safer buildings, stronger communities, and long-term sustainability in a region where quality construction truly matters.

• Meaningful, Field-Based Work (Not a Desk Job)

You will spend the majority of the time in the field, on active construction sites, and directly engaged with projects, rather than confined to an office. This role is ideal for professionals who prefer hands-on, real-world problem solving; enjoy working independently while collaborating with project teams; and take pride in seeing the tangible results of their work.

• Competitive Compensation

We offer a competitive compensation package aligned with experience and certifications, along with potential incentives such as:

• Opportunities for extended assignments based on performance
• Compensation reflective of both market conditions and the unique demands of working in the Washington, DC metropolitan area

Additional Information

• Preference given to candidates local to the Washington, DC metropolitan area.
• Relocation assistance and/or housing support may be available for non-local highly qualified candidates willing to commit to multi-year assignments.

Travel Requirements

• Local travel required, as needed.

Personal Qualities

IBTS places a high value on certain personal traits that work toward creating a positive,professional, and supportive work environment, which is essential for working together and achieving success. We believe “how” you achieve your results is as important as what you achieve. The following highlights the personal traits key for success within the organization.

• Strong Work Ethic
• Teachable/Continuous Learner
• Reliable/Dependable
• Collaborative/Team Contributor

Pay Range for this position is $110,000–$125,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Physical Demands

• Field-based role requiring travel between inspection sites across the Washington, DC metropolitan area.
• Ability to work in active construction environments and varying outdoor conditions.
• Ability to walk job sites, climb stairs and ladders, and lift 25–40 lbs.

Company Overview

Bring your passion, expertise, and experience to IBTS, where we appreciate and are committed to our employees. We offer outstanding benefits, growth opportunities, and work hard to maintain a culture that values our employees. 

The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS) is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization established to provide unbiased professional building code compliance services, while enhancing the communities in which we work. At IBTS, our mission is to deliver quality services to meet the challenges of governance at all levels while enhancing public safety, economic development, and the general welfare of the community. Our services include Building and Community Development, Energy and Sustainability Services, Disaster Planning and Recovery, Quality Assurance, as well as Compliance and Risk Monitoring.

IBTS is headquartered in Ashburn, VA, with additional offices in Louisiana, Missouri, New York, Puerto Rico, and Washington, DC.

We are committed to building a community of experts with diverse backgrounds, disciplines, and perspectives who are passionate about our mission. IBTS is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer that maintains a diverse and inclusive workforce.  All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or sexual orientation. This opportunity is open to Section S3 Residents.  Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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