Decatur, Construction Code Inspector; Plumbing

Position: City of Decatur, Construction Code Inspector (Plumbing)

Starting Pay: $33.02/hour
Increases to: $36.03 /hour after six months

Join the City of Decatur as a Construction Code Inspector (Plumbing), where you’ll play a vital role in protecting public health and safety through professional plumbing code enforcement. This position offers the opportunity to work independently in the field, collaborate with diverse construction professionals, and directly impact community standards across residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

If you’re a licensed plumbing professional seeking a rewarding career that combines technical expertise with public service, this role provides both professional growth and meaningful community impact.

Enjoy a generous package of perks including:

• Competitive Benefits: 14.5 paid holidays (including 2 personal days), paid vacation and sick leave, excellent health insurance, and a strong retirement pension plan
• Dedicated Health Center: Free check-ups, chronic care, bloodwork, immunizations, and many free prescriptions for employees and their dependents

Key Responsibilities Code Enforcement & Field Inspections

• Conduct comprehensive on-site inspections of plumbing systems for new construction, alterations, repairs, and upgrades across residential, commercial, and industrial properties
• Investigate code violations and issue correction notices or stop work orders to ensure compliance
• Testify in hearings or court proceedings related to code violations or permit disputes as needed
• Review construction plans for code compliance during the permitting process
• Approve or reject work based on Illinois plumbing codes and local/state regulations
• Maintain detailed inspection records through the City’s permitting and inspection software

Technical Guidance & Collaboration

• Provide expert technical guidance to contractors, engineers, and the public regarding plumbing code requirements and safety standards
• Collaborate with building, electrical, mechanical, fire, property maintenance, and public works inspectors on multi-disciplinary projects
• Foster voluntary compliance through clear communication and professional consultation

Qualifications and Preferred Skills Required Credentials

• High school diploma or equivalent
• State of Illinois plumbing license
• International Fuel Gas Code Inspector certification (must obtain within 12 months of appointment)
• Illinois Plumbing Inspector certification (must obtain within 12 months of appointment)

Technical Expertise

• Comprehensive knowledge of plumbing systems, installation methods, and design review
• Working knowledge of International Residential Code (IRC) and International Building Code (IBC)
• Ability to interpret construction drawings and identify hazardous conditions
• Proficiency with computer systems and inspection software
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences
• Strong attention to detail and observational skills
• Sound independent judgment and decision-making in field conditions
• Ability to navigate difficult conversations with professionalism and fairness
• Commitment to consistent and equitable code enforcement

Working Conditions

This position requires regular fieldwork in all types of weather and terrain conditions. You’ll work independently across various job sites throughout the City’s jurisdiction while maintaining regular communication with the Building Official and departmental team.

Sponsorship for Employment

The City of Decatur does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H‑1B). To be considered for regular employment with City of Decatur, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a continuous basis.

Examination Process

• Oral Interview Applicants must pass an oral interview with a minimum score of 70.00%.
• Veteran Points Applicants passing the oral interview may be eligible to receive 5.00 veteran preference points added to their final examination score.
• Seniority Points Applicable persons passing the oral interview will receive 0.50 seniority preference points foreach full year of continuous City of Decatur AFSCME service. A maximum of 10.0 points may be added to the final examination score.

The City of Decatur is a…