Building Code Apprenticeship

Note: Employees for the State of Montana must reside within Montana. All applications and required application documents must be submitted through the MT Careers site at: for a career change or a chance to build a career with the State of Montana We have an excellent opportunity for you! We are looking for dedicated individuals to join our team as a Building Codes Inspector Apprentice and were prepared to invest in your future through a structured apprenticeship. We believe in investing in our team which is why we cover all expenses for your certification training and provide ongoing support and opportunities for advancement through our apprenticeship. If youre ready to learn grow and make a real impact we encourage you to apply.

MISSION STATEMENT:

Empowering all Montanans through work and opportunity.

Its 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 DLIhere.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

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 Montanas 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.

WHATS IN IT FOR YOU:

When you join the State of Montana as a Building Codes Inspector Apprentice youre not just starting a jobyoure beginning a supported career pathway. Heres what you can expect:

• Paid Training and Certification: The State covers all expenses for your professional certification courses testing and materials.
• Structured Career Growth: Advance through a clear apprenticeship ladder gaining skills certifications and responsibilities at each level.
• Real-World Experience: Learn on the job with mentorship from experienced inspectors while contributing to projects that keep Montanas communities safe.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a four-day ten-hour schedule that supports personal time along with flexible travel opportunities across Montana.
• Purpose and Impact: Play a vital role in ensuring safe code-compliant buildings that protect people property and Montanas future.
• Supportive Team Environment: Join a knowledgeable collaborative team committed to professional development integrity and public service.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

As a Building Code Inspector Apprentice you will participate in a structured training program that blends classroom instruction field experience and mentorship. Under the guidance of certified inspectors you will learn the technical and regulatory aspects of building inspection while gaining hands-on experience across a variety of construction disciplines.

As a Building Code Inspector Apprentice you will participate in a structured training program that blends classroom instruction field experience and mentorship. Under the guidance of certified inspectors you will learn the technical and regulatory aspects of building inspection while gaining hands-on experience across a variety of construction disciplines.

• Learn and Assist with Inspections: 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).
• Develop Technical Knowledge: Build foundational understanding of building systems construction materials and inspection procedures while learning to interpret blueprints and use inspection tools.
• Gain Field and Communication Skills: Interact with contractors homeowners and design professionals to observe how inspectors explain and enforce code requirements.
• Support Plan Review and Documentation: Assist with plan reviews permit issuance and accurate recordkeeping using digital inspection systems.
• Engage in Training and Certification: Participate in State-supported coursework and certification programs essential for progression within the Building Code Career Ladder.
• Demonstrate Professional Growth: Apply knowledge learned in the classroom to real-world fieldwork while following safety procedures and state policies.

Heres a quick overview on how you can progress through our Building Code Inspector Apprenticeship:

• 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.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:

Candidates must demonstrate the ability to:

• 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). Applies new knowledge effectively to fieldwork and plan review activities.
• Blueprint and Drawing Interpretation: Reads and interprets construction drawings blueprints and technical documents to identify compliance concerns and safety issues.
• Analytical Thinking: Identifies potential code or safety issues evaluates available options and recommends corrective actions with attention to detail and life safety priorities.
• Time Management and Accountability: Organizes work effectively meets deadlines and manages inspection schedules with minimal oversight while maintaining high accuracy.
• Technology Proficiency: Uses digital inspection tools mobile devices and software systems to record document and communicate inspection findings efficiently.
• Safety Awareness: Follows proper safety practices in diverse field environments and conditions identifying and addressing hazards proactively.

• Integrity and Professionalism: Demonstrates fairness honesty and ethical decision-making in all aspects of inspection work and public service.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Education and Experience)

• Demonstrated interest or experience in construction building trades engineering architecture or other hands-on technical work.
• Ability to read and interpret basic building plans drawings and measurements or a willingness to learn these skills through training.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills with the ability to apply learned information to real-world situations.
• Willingness and ability to learn state-adopted building codes inspection methods and safety practices through structured training and field mentoring.
• Basic computer and technology skills including data entry email and digital recordkeeping.
• Skills may be gained through a combination of professional experience training or education. A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position.
• Valid drivers license and ability to travel to inspection sites across varied geographic and weather conditions.

APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITY

This agency may utilize a registered apprenticeship program to train and qualify employees for this position. Employees hired into an apprenticeship placement will be paid on a graduated wage scale that starts below the advertised base rate for fully qualified incumbents. Apprentices will receive predetermined pay increases each time they achieve defined apprenticeship milestones and demonstrate the required competencies. The specific terms including the wage progression schedule will be provided in writing at the time of hire.

Candidates who already hold one or more of the certifications listed below will be evaluated and placed at appropriate level within the apprenticeship.

• ICC IBC Building Inspector Certification and ICC IBC Plan Review Certification or degree in architecture or engineering related field.
• Montana master or journeyman electrical license or ICC E1 (residential) and ICC E2 (commercial) certification.
• Montana Master or Journeyman Plumbing license (can also perform fuel gas and mechanical code inspections) or IAPMO Uniform Plumbing Code International Fuel Gas Code and International Mechanical Code Certification.

HOW TO APPLY FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY:

A complete state application is not required; however you will need to initiate the application and attach the resume cover letter or other required documents at time of application to be considered for this position. Resume will auto fill the application but the application will not be scored or reviewed.

Failure to attach the cover letter and resume will result in your application being considered incomplete and will not be considered further. Materials submitted but not requested will not be considered in the selection process.

Tip: When attaching your resume cover letter or other required documents you must mark the attachments as RELEVANT or we will be unable to view your documents.

Required application materials:

• Cover Letter - Your Cover Letter should explain how your experience and education meet the identified required skills and competencies with examples that demonstrate your qualifications.
• Resume - include all work experience you have held that would help you qualify for this position including duties dates of employment.

Only online applications will be accepted. By applying online you can receive updates and monitor the status of your application.

All documents for Veteran or Disability preference must be received or date stamped by the closing date. You will receive an application confirmation email with instructions on acceptable preference documents and how to submit such documents.

If you need an accommodation with the application process please contact the HR office.

BENEFITS:

Being able to enjoy the quality of life in the beautiful state of Montana is one of the benefits you will love about this opportunity! Our mountains waterways and open spaces provide not only beautiful scenery but year-round recreational opportunities including hiking camping biking fishing boating hunting skiing and snowmobiling. Montana boasts a high-quality education system and a variety of entertainment including fairs rodeos and theaters. Read more about our great state here.

See our other incredible benefits here. These are some of our benefits just to name a few:

• Work/life balance with hybrid schedules or partial telework may be available within the state of Montana.
• 38 paid days off a year including vacation sick leave and holidays.
• Military leave: Youll get up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.
• Longevity raises with continuous service as well as any negotiated market increases and state statutory raises.
• Health dental vision life insurance coverage flexible spending accounts EAP - clickhere to learn more.
• Free telehealth and access to free employee medical clinics through our medical plan - click here to learn more.
• Choice between two retirement plans with an employer contribution between 8.73% - 9.07% of your annual salary. A third optional 457(b) deferred compensation plan is also available. Click here to learn more.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness- Employment with the State of Montana may qualify you to receive loan forgiveness- clickhere to learn more!
• Career progression training opportunities and room for professional growth.
• State employee discounts at various businesses across the state.

This position may be eligible for a statutory $1.00 an hour base pay increase effective on July 1 2026.

*This position may be covered by aVoluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA)

E-Verify: This agency is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9 your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify please visit the E-Verify website found here