Building Code Apprenticeship

State of Montana•Helena, MT

10d•Hybrid

About The Position

The State of Montana is seeking dedicated individuals to join their team as a Building Codes Inspector Apprentice. This role offers a structured apprenticeship program with investment in the employee's future, covering all expenses for certification training and providing ongoing support for advancement. The position involves inspecting residential, commercial, and public structures to ensure compliance with state and local building standards, including safety, structural, electrical, plumbing, and accessibility codes. Inspectors play a vital role in maintaining safe and durable buildings across Montana. The typical schedule is four days a week, ten hours a day, with flexibility based on workload and travel. The ideal candidate is comfortable interpreting construction plans, working with various stakeholders, and performing fieldwork in all weather conditions.

Requirements

Demonstrated interest or experience in construction, building trades, engineering, architecture, or other hands-on technical work.
Ability to read and interpret basic building plans, drawings, and measurements, or a willingness to learn these skills through training.
Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills with the ability to apply learned information to real-world situations.
Willingness and ability to learn state-adopted building codes, inspection methods, and safety practices through structured training and field mentoring.
Basic computer and technology skills, including data entry, email, and digital recordkeeping.
A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to inspection sites across varied geographic and weather conditions.
Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Demonstrates empathy and professionalism when interacting with contractors, homeowners, and other stakeholders. Clearly explains complex technical findings in a patient and approachable manner.
Conflict Resolution: Uses sound judgment, negotiation, and diplomacy to resolve disagreements, ensuring positive outcomes while maintaining code compliance and a focus on life safety.
Customer Service: Provides courteous, solution-oriented assistance and represents the Department with integrity and professionalism during all public interactions.
Adaptability and Problem Solving: Responds effectively to changing field conditions and unique project challenges. Applies logical, methodical reasoning when addressing complex inspection issues.
Collaboration and Teamwork: Builds and maintains positive relationships with colleagues, supervisors, and external partners. Works effectively both independently and as part of a team environment.
Technical Knowledge and Learning Agility: Demonstrates the ability and willingness to learn state-adopted building codes, rules, and laws (Montana Code Annotated). Applies new knowledge effectively to fieldwork and plan review activities.
Blueprint and Drawing Interpretation: Reads and interprets construction drawings, blueprints, and technical documents to identify compliance concerns and safety issues.
Analytical Thinking: Identifies potential code or safety issues, evaluates available options, and recommends corrective actions with attention to detail and life safety priorities.
Time Management and Accountability: Organizes work effectively, meets deadlines, and manages inspection schedules with minimal oversight while maintaining high accuracy.
Technology Proficiency: Uses digital inspection tools, mobile devices, and software systems to record, document, and communicate inspection findings efficiently.
Safety Awareness: Follows proper safety practices in diverse field environments and conditions, identifying and addressing hazards proactively.
Integrity and Professionalism: Demonstrates fairness, honesty, and ethical decision-making in all aspects of inspection work and public service.

Nice To Haves

ICC IBC Building Inspector Certification and ICC IBC Plan Review Certification, or degree in architecture or engineering related field.
Montana master or journeyman electrical license, or ICC E1 (residential) and ICC E2 (commercial) certification.
Montana Master or Journeyman Plumbing license (can also perform fuel gas and mechanical code inspections), or IAPMO Uniform Plumbing Code International Fuel Gas Code and International Mechanical Code Certification.

Responsibilities

Support experienced inspectors in evaluating residential, commercial, and public buildings for compliance with state and local codes, Administrative Rules, and the Montana Code Annotated (MCA).
Develop foundational understanding of building systems, construction materials, and inspection procedures while learning to interpret blueprints and use inspection tools.
Interact with contractors, homeowners, and design professionals to observe how inspectors explain and enforce code requirements.
Assist with plan reviews, permit issuance, and accurate recordkeeping using digital inspection systems.
Participate in State-supported coursework and certification programs essential for progression within the Building Code Career Ladder.
Apply knowledge learned in the classroom to real-world fieldwork while following safety procedures and state policies.

Benefits

Paid Training and Certification: The State covers all expenses for your professional certification courses, testing, and materials.
Structured Career Growth: Advance through a clear apprenticeship ladder, gaining skills, certifications, and responsibilities at each level.
Real-World Experience: Learn on the job with mentorship from experienced inspectors while contributing to projects that keep Montana’s communities safe.
Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a four-day, ten-hour schedule that supports personal time, along with flexible travel opportunities across Montana.
Purpose and Impact: Play a vital role in ensuring safe, code-compliant buildings that protect people, property, and Montana’s future.
Supportive Team Environment: Join a knowledgeable, collaborative team committed to professional development, integrity, and public service.
38 paid days off a year including vacation, sick leave and holidays.
Military leave: You’ll get up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.
Longevity raises with continuous service, as well as any negotiated market increases and state statutory raises.
Health, dental, vision, life insurance coverage, flexible spending accounts, EAP.
Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through our medical plan.
Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution between 8.73% - 9.07% of your annual salary.
A third optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness- Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive loan forgiveness.
Career progression, training opportunities and room for professional growth.
State employee discounts at various businesses across the state.
This position may be eligible for a statutory $1.00 an hour base pay increase effective on July 1, 2026.
This position may be covered by a Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA)