Combination Building Inspector I​/II​/III

Performs the inspection of buildings and other structures; performs a variety of duties in the implementation of the Building and Safety Division plans, programs and services.

Works under the technical supervision of the Inspection Supervisor who outlines work assignments, occasionally reviews work in progress, and periodically reviews completed work. No supervision exercised.

Inspects building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical construction for compliance with construction codes, local ordinances and state laws. Verifies and approves corrected construction and provides technical guidance to assigned staff on application, record and approval requirements.

Reviews architectural, structural, disabled access, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy and green building construction drawings and reports for compliance with construction codes, local ordinances and state laws and approves corrected drawings for permit issuance. Attends meetings with permit applicants for clarification of review comments and verification of corrections. Monitors construction progress on active permits.

Ensures that quality assurance requirements for special inspection and structural observation are followed during construction and proper records are provided and maintained. Gathers, interprets, and analyzes data for reports, studies, and recommendations. Investigates, resolves and responds to complaints as assigned. Makes referrals to appropriate departments and/or staff.

Coordinates inspection related activities with other City departments and agencies, as necessary. Maintains and organizes all pertinent records and files in hard copy and electronic formats. Issues permits for work and keeps records in the computer tracking system while preparing correspondence and reports.

Participates in the preparation of non‑complying cases for prosecution and testifies in court, as necessary. Performs other duties, as assigned.

Knowledge of State of California Title 24 Building, Fire, Plumbing, Mechanical, Electrical, Energy, Green Building Standards and City of Santa Monica Municipal Codes; national testing laboratory standards related to construction materials and equipment; principles, practices and methods of building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy and green building design and construction; preservation techniques and the State of California Historical Building Code; state and local regulations related to construction permits including asbestos and lead paint removal, air quality, CAL‑OSHA safe work practices, licensing of design professionals and contractors, worker’s compensation insurance, exterior noise standards, green building standards, seismic retrofit and fire sprinkler requirements;

municipal zoning and land use principles;
State of California Title 25 Mobile Home Park regulations; effective customer service techniques.

Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, disabled access, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy and green building drawings and specifications; perform field inspections and identify violations of building, structural, disabled access, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy or green building codes; make computations and analyses to check construction for conformance to applicable code and acceptable standards of practice; review and evaluate material tests, special inspection and structural observation reports;

provide clear and understandable written responses related to inspection; communicate orally with City employees and the public; resolve conflicts and effect solutions to both technical and non‑technical problems; climb stairs, ladders and construction scaffolding; maintain balance on temporary construction elements; provide effective customer service; use a personal computer and applicable software applications; work effectively with persons from diverse social, cultural and economic backgrounds.

Level I:
Graduation from high school or equivalent. Four years of recent, paid construction experience as a carpenter, plumber, electrician, construction superintendent, licensed general…