Senior Commercial Building Inspector (CBI)

Institute for Building Technology and Safety • Ashburn, VA

13d • $110,000 - $125,000 • Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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

Nice To Haves

• 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).
• 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
• Candidates who do not possess all preferred ICC certifications at time of hire may still be considered; however: 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.
• Preference given to candidates local to the Washington, DC metropolitan area.

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

Benefits

• Relocation benefits will be considered for highly qualified candidates willing to commit to multi-year assignments.
• Employer sponsorship (training materials, exam fees) is typically provided.
• A bonus is paid for each certificate obtained.
• Competitive compensation package aligned with experience and certifications
• 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
• Relocation assistance and/or housing support may be available for non-local highly qualified candidates willing to commit to multi-year assignments.
• Outstanding benefits
• Growth opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior