Plans Examiner​/Building Inspector

Position Details

This position is open until filled, with a first review of applications on Monday, July 27, 2026.

To be considered for the first round of screening, your application must be received by 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on Sunday, July 26, 2026.

The City of Auburn Community Development department is looking for a talented Plans Examiner/Building Inspector I to add to our team. This position performs technical work in the inspection of building and site improvements, including structural, plumbing, and mechanical construction for compliance with adopted building codes, local ordinances, applicable regulations, and approved plans/specifications. The position also assists with permit review activities and may perform residential and limited commercial plan review assignments under the guidance of senior staff.

The position serves as an entry‑level role designed to develop the knowledge, skills, certifications, and experience necessary for increasingly complex inspection and plan review responsibilities.

This entry‑level position offers an opportunity for increasing level of responsibilities and professional development. Advancement to Plans Examiner/Building Inspector II is contingent upon demonstrated proficiency in inspection duties, successful completion of assigned plan review activities (checklist), acquisition of required certifications, and the operational needs of the department.

• Knowledge of codes and regulations both at state and local levels:
  Expertise in building codes, zoning ordinances, and safety standards.
• Technical Understanding:
  Strong familiarity with construction methods, structural design principles, and plan review processes.
• Inspection technique:
  Ability to conduct daily thorough on‑site inspections of construction projects to ensure code compliance.
• Problem solving:
  Ability to identify building code violations and provide a detailed written report to ensure code compliance.
• Customer service:
  Ability to interact professionally with contractors, developers, homeowners, and the general public to address concerns and provide guidance.
• Adaptability:
  Ability to work in varying environmental conditions and respond to changing priorities.
• Technology proficiency:
  Competence in using inspection software and tools to document and record findings.

The Community Development team is intelligent, creative, fun and supportive of each other. It values individual opinions, diversity of thought, new ways of approaching our work, better ways of delivering our services, and appreciation and respect for each other. The Department is a dynamic and multicultural team that is dedicated to diversity, equity and inclusion in our workplace and in the service we provide to our community.

The Department’s leadership team is committed to fostering a positive work environment, investing in professional growth, and encouraging innovation and process improvement.

In this role you will:

• Inspect structural, plumbing, and mechanical installations for compliance with the appropriate codes, applicable regulations, and approved plans and specifications.
• Perform inspections independently but conduct plan review assignments under general supervision and guidance from senior staff.
• Initiate discussions with contractors and property owners related to construction corrections, when necessary.
• Understand construction drawings and principles and independently read and interpret construction plans, blueprints, schematic drawings, and construction specifications in both electronic and paper forms.
• Maintain current knowledge, and engage in continuing education of building construction technology and codes including standards, practices, and methods of all types of residential and commercial construction.

• Two (2) years of college‑level coursework in building technology or related field and two (2) years of journey‑level experience in general building construction.
• Experience as a Building Inspector or Plans Examiner in a public agency may substitute for the education and experience on a year‑for‑year basis.

• Any combination of experience,…