Building Inspector

Apply by April 6, 2026 for first review and consideration.

This position performs a variety of duties related to the inspection of construction projects including reviewing general building permit applications and conducting field inspections, to ensure compliance with building permits and regulations.

The work performed by this class follows established procedures and general directions; incumbents operate independently and apply established guidelines and alternatives to make routine judgments and decisions.

Other duties may be assigned as needed.

• Reviews a variety of routine building permit applications, plans and specifications for projects to ensure that work complies with building codes, zoning requirements, ordinances and regulations; provides information on required corrections if necessary.
• Performs a variety of routine inspection duties for all phases of work during construction to ensure that plans and changes comply with building, plumbing, mechanical, fire, energy and other applicable building codes and that construction is done according to approved plans and changes; issues stop work orders and requires rework when standards are not met.
• Investigates complaints about people working without permits or licenses; investigates dilapidated buildings for health and safety problems and property disputes.
• Issues detailed correction notices wherever code violations are discovered; provides information and assistance to builders to correct violations; reinspects for corrections.
• Maintains accurate and complete records of construction inspections using hand written records and notes and computerized systems.
• Inspects side sewer installations to ensure compliance with city regulations.
  
  

A combination of the experience, education, and training listed below which provides an equivalent background to perform the work of this position.

Experience

• Three years of experience in residential and commercial building construction with increasing responsibility for projects in different phases of construction.
• Inspection experience in building construction and/or experience managing construction projects preferred.
  
  

Education and Training:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Associate's degree or college coursework in technical field related to job duties, such as completion of training/apprenticeship program preferred.
  
  

Licenses or Certificates:

• Must possess, or have the ability to possess within six months of hire date, ICC certification as a residential or commercial building inspector.
• ICC certification as plumbing or mechanical inspector preferred.
• Must possess, or have the ability to possess within one month of hire date, a Washington State Driver's License.
  
  

The physical demands and characteristics of the work environment described here are representative of those occurring in the performance of the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; kneel, bend, or climb and to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and talk or hear. The employee must be able to lift up to 10 pounds on a frequent basis; lift 10 to 20 pounds on an occasional basis; and rarely lift 20 – 50 pounds (employee may ask for assistance). Some work is performed in an office environment where the noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.

Work is primarily performed in the field where the employee must stand or walk on variable surfaces including hard, even surfaces and uneven ground, as well as sloped embankments. Employee occasionally works in the right of way or construction sites and may be exposed to physical hazards such as moving traffic and heavy construction equipment. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes and airborne particles, toxic and caustic chemicals, extreme heat, risk of electrical shock, wet/humid conditions, working in high, open places, confined and underground spaces, and restricted access building sites. Outdoors the noise level may be moderate to loud. The employee must climb ladders and work at heights.

This position description generally describes the principle functions of the position and the level of knowledge and skills typically required. It does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and it is subject to change as the needs of the employer and the requirements of the job change.

Non-union