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

• 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…