Building Inspector (Combination Inspector)

Institute for Building Technology and Safety; Baton Rouge (LA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Voluntary Protection Programs Participants' Association, Inc. is seeking an IBTS Building Inspector in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This role addresses public safety through thorough inspections of residential and commercial structures to ensure compliance with all applicable building codes and standards.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate significant expertise in code inspection, be proficient in ICC regulations, and hold multiple certifications. Autonomy in decisions and excellent communication skills are crucial for this position.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in code or construction inspection.
• Must be registered with the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council.
• Must possess at least 6 ICC certifications in residential/commercial disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Inspect construction for compliance with building codes.
• Evaluate foundations, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
• Conduct daily inspections and issue correction notices.

Skills

ICC building codes proficiency

Strong mathematical skills

Effective communication skills

Ability to work independently

Knowledge of construction materials

Ability to use GIS mapping tools

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Engineering or related field

Tools

GPS tools

Electronic tablets

Job description

Location

This position is located in St. George.

Responsibilities

The IBTS Building Inspector (Combination Inspector) serves a vital role in ensuring public safety and code compliance throughout the city. This hands‑on, independent role requires technical expertise, integrity, communication skills, and an ability to collaborate with multiple stakeholders. Inspectors play a key part in safeguarding life safety and improving community resilience through consistent application of codes and standards.

• Inspect construction, alteration, and repair of residential and commercial structures for compliance with applicable codes and standards.
• Evaluate key components such as foundations, concrete, framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, energy efficiency, and fire/life safety systems.
• Assess construction materials and methods for compliance with the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code (LSUCC), City Code of Ordinances, Unified Development Code (UDC), and approved plans.
• Issue correction notices and Stop Work Orders; report all violations observed during inspections.
• Respond to inquiries from contractors, architects, developers, city staff, and the public, providing clear interpretations of regulatory requirements.
• Assist with inspection scheduling and plan review for code compliance.
• Conduct inspections aligned with assigned LSUCC specialty classifications under the authority of the Building Official.
• Investigate and resolve citizen complaints related to construction, permitting, or violations of city ordinances.
• Enforce property maintenance codes and conduct occupancy inspections.
• Review and interpret blueprints, sketches, and construction plans to evaluate compliance.
• Verify that all jobsite workers are properly licensed; report violations to the appropriate authority.
• Maintain daily inspection records and documentation; perform related clerical tasks as required.
• Provide guidance to coworkers on code interpretation and enforcement procedures.
• Address citizen concerns tactfully through verbal and written communication.
• Conduct inspections of buildings, houses, apartments, fences, signs, pools, generators, and other structures for compliance with municipal and state codes.
• Perform inspections of roofing and re‑roofing projects per adopted state regulations.
• Review prior inspection reports and comments before arriving on site.
• Utilize approved plans and plan reviews to verify compliance with UDC and ICC codes.
• Accurately cite specific code sections when identifying deficiencies.
• Maintain responsiveness and professionalism when communicating via email, phone, or in‑person.
• Perform emergency inspections as needed, including outside standard business hours.
• Understand UL Designs, Products, and Systems. The ability to utilize and understand the UL website.

Decision-Making & Leadership

• Operate with autonomy in scheduling and performing daily inspections.
• Interpret organizational policies and recommend exceptions where justified.
• Collaborate effectively with fellow inspectors, permit technicians, and the Building Official.
• Provide leadership and attend ICC seminars when required; participate in training and mentoring.
• Understand the flow of inspections from start to finish and ensure proper sequencing of inspections throughout the construction process.
• Use sound judgment to determine when certain phases may proceed based on partial approvals or unaffected areas.
• Prioritize inspection workload strategically, including emergency, early‑day, and end‑of‑day tasks.
• Communicate scheduling issues, inspection conflicts, and utility‑related needs in a timely manner.
• Evaluate readiness for final inspection and determine when a permit can be closed.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Proficiency in International Code Council (ICC) building codes and state/local regulations.
• Ability to interpret and enforce building plans, specifications, blueprints, and applicable codes.
• Strong mathematical skills, report writing, and computer proficiency.
• Effective verbal and written communication across a wide range of stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently, manage tasks efficiently, and build strong working relationships.
• Knowledge of construction materials, methods, and stages across all trades—building, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing.
• Ability to recognize design and installation flaws and determine appropriate corrective actions.
• Familiarity with the City's Code of Ordinances, Resolutions, and UDC.
• Ability to use all GIS mapping tools.
• Familiarity with the geography of the City and use of GPS tools.
• Safe operation of a light motor vehicle.
• Ability to identify potential code violations during various construction phases.
• Ability to explain code requirements firmly, tactfully, and impartially.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Reliable, punctual, detail-oriented, and able to contribute to team success.
• Capable of using electronic tablets and learning permitting software systems.
• Basic understanding of setbacks, zoning, and flood zones.
• Understands when work requires a permit and the ability to determine if work was performed without a permit.
• Performs other duties as assigned as appropriate for this role.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in code inspection, construction inspection, or building construction, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Must be registered with the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Council.
• Must possess at least 6 ICC certifications (or equivalent) in residential and/or commercial disciplines: building, electrical, mechanical, or plumbing.
• Must be able to perform plan reviews.
• Must maintain active ICC certifications throughout employment.
• Must hold and maintain a valid Louisiana driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in building construction or inspection.
• Possession of 10 or more ICC certifications (or equivalent), including any of the following:
  • ICC Residential Building Inspector
  • ICC Residential Electrical Inspector
  • ICC Residential Mechanical Inspector
  • ICC Residential Plumbing Inspector
  • ICC Residential Energy Inspector
  • ICC Commercial Combination Inspector
  • ICC Residential Combination Inspector
  • ICC Certified Building Official
  • ICC Master Code Professional
  • ICC Building Inspector
  • ICC Electrical Inspector
  • ICC Mechanical Inspector
  • ICC Plumbing Inspector
  • Louisiana Residential Plumbing Inspector
  • Louisiana Commercial Plumbing Inspector
  • ICC Combination Plans Examiner
  • ICC Commercial Building Plans Examiner
  • ICC Commercial Electrical Plans Examiner
  • ICC Commercial Mechanical Plans Examiner
  • ICC Commercial Plumbing Plans Examiner
  • ICC Residential Plans Examiner
  • ICC Residential Energy Inspector/Plans Examiner

Personal Qualities

• Strategic/Innovative Thinking
• Professional and Effective Interpersonal Skills
• Delegation with Team Accountability
• Risk Evaluation/Management/Mitigation
• Relationship Building: Internal and External

This opportunity is open to Section S3 Residents. Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.