Construction Inspection

Become a Jack of All Trades

The Construction Inspection program is the study of the adopted California Construction Codes that building inspectors enforce on residential and nonresidential construction projects. The program focuses on technical knowledge of construction installations and proper inspection procedures to ensure that structures are built to comply with minimum code safeguards that protect the life, public welfare, and property of residents. Students learn the inspection skills necessary to pursue a career as a building, plumbing, electrical or mechanical inspector. Subject areas include the inspection of concrete, masonry and wood buildings, plumbing and mechanical systems, electrical installations and systems, plan reading, soils engineering, disabled access, fire sprinklers, green code requirements, storm water pollution prevention, and the certification requirements for inspectors in California.

Program Awards

Our Construction Inspection programs are included in the Applied Technology and Hospitality Management field of study and offer these awards:

Award Location Estimated
Completion
Program
Map
Construction Inspection, Associate in Science Degree: Career/Technical Chula Vista # Semesters
Construction Management, Associate in Science Degree: Career/Technical Chula Vista # Semesters  
Construction Inspection, Certificate of Achievement Chula Vista # Semesters  
Construction Management, Certificate of Achievement Chula Vista # Semesters  

Common Careers

Below is a sample of the options for construction inspection majors. Most require a certificate achievement or an associate in science degree, some require a bachelor’s degree, and a few of these may require a graduate-level degree: construction inspector, estimator, apprentice as a carpenter, electrician, plumber, mason, cement finisher, roofer, painter, licensed contractor, soil engineer, architect, project engineer, quality control manager, vocational teacher, and positions available in all professions of manufacturing, retail and wholesale, business, industry, and the military or government.

The average annual salary in this field is $83,850 for occupations like Construction & Building Inspector.

Typical Duties

  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
    Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
  • Getting Information
    Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
    Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
    Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization
    Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
    Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
    Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems 
    Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
    Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
    Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
  • Processing Information
    Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
  • Documenting/Recording Information
    Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others
    Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
  • Working with Computers
    Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public
    Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
  • Analyzing Data or Information
    Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment
    Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
  • Performing General Physical Activities
    Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
    Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  • Coaching and Developing Others
    Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People
    Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
    Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
  • Performing Administrative Activities
    Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
  • Training and Teaching Others
    Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates
    Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others
    Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
  • Scheduling Work and Activities
    Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.