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EnergyGreen JobOccupation aligned to O*NET green economy classifications.

Construction and Building Inspector

Inspect structures using engineering skills to determine structural soundness and compliance with specifications, building codes, and other regulations. Inspections may be general in nature or may be limited to a specific area, such as electrical systems or plumbing.

Annual openings

453

Median wage

$79,950

Typical education

Additional training, such as an Associate's degree, is expected.

Growth 2026–2032

+7%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

Additional training, such as an Associate's degree, is expected.

Credential requirement

A credential is valued by some employers for this job. For Energy Auditors BPI EA or BA certifications are valued.

Work experience

Previous work experience in the trade being inspected is expected.

Work-based learning

Paid training opportunities exist, including certifications, if you join the Weatherization Assistance Program network.

Salary/Demand information crosses multiple industries.
An Energy Auditor is responsible for conducting residential energy audits as part of weatherization energy efficiency programs. Primary duties include interviewing clients about their home, delivering client education regarding energy use, conducting thorough home inspections and documenting the existing condition of each home, running a computer model of pre- and post- energy use, identifying improvements and building a scope of work according to program guidelines, clearly communicating the scope of work to a crew via written and oral instructions, and keeping accurate paperwork and documentation of each job.
While not required, field experience as a journeyman is highly beneficial for understanding the work being inspected. Some individuals may transition to these roles for desk-based work while retaining their background in the field.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerNo
  • OutdoorsMay vary
  • With your handsMay vary

Interests it draws on

  • Trades
  • Architecture and Civil Drafting

Automation exposure

Moderate exposure

Some routine tasks may shift as tools improve, but the role is likely to adapt.

A typical day

  1. Approve building plans that meet required specifications.
  2. Review and interpret plans, blueprints, site layouts, specifications, or construction methods to ensure compliance to legal requirements and safety regulations.
  3. Issue permits for construction, relocation, demolition, or occupancy.
  4. Inspect bridges, dams, highways, buildings, wiring, plumbing, electrical circuits, sewers, heating systems, or foundations during and after construction for structural quality, general safety, or conformance to specifications and codes.
  5. Monitor installation of plumbing, wiring, equipment, or appliances to ensure that installation is performed properly and is in compliance with applicable regulations.
  6. Inspect and monitor construction sites to ensure adherence to safety standards, building codes, or specifications.
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