Building Code Apprentice

Job Description - Building Code Apprentice )

Keep Montana moving—safely. Join the Montana Department of Labor & Industry as an Elevator Safety Inspector and help ensure every lift, escalator, and conveyance system across our state operates with safety and precision. If you’re mechanically minded, detail-driven, and ready to make a real impact on public safety, this could be the perfect next step in your career.

Empowering all Montanans through work and opportunity.

• Respect
• Integrity

It’s about the people and the impact we make in our communities every day. We are proud of our open, team-based, supportive, and collaborative work environments. Learn more about DLI here.

Our Building Code Inspectors serve communities across Montana, ensuring that construction projects meet state and local building standards. This position involves inspecting residential, commercial, and public structures to verify compliance with safety, structural, electrical, plumbing, and accessibility codes. By upholding these regulations, our inspectors help maintain safe, durable buildings and protect the well‑being of Montana’s residents.

Inspectors typically work a four‑day, ten‑hour schedule, with flexibility based on workload and travel requirements. The ideal candidate is comfortable reading and interpreting construction plans, working with contractors and property owners, and using inspection tools and technology. This role requires travel throughout diverse environments and the ability to perform fieldwork in all weather conditions.

• 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).
• Build 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 record‑keeping 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.

Level 1 – Apprentice:
Learn building codes and inspection practices while working toward initial certification.

Level 2 – Single Discipline:
Obtain one certification in Building, Electrical, or Plumbing/Mechanical.

Level 3 – Dual Discipline:
Hold certifications in two disciplines and perform a broader range of inspections.

Level 4 – Multi‑Discipline:
Achieve full certification across all primary inspection disciplines.

Level 5 – Master Inspector:
Demonstrate all program competencies and serve as a mentor or lead inspector.

• 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).…