Building Inspector

Pay: $38.48 to $44.62 per hour (base). Bilingual pay increases base by 2%, resulting in $39.25 to $45.51 per hour. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance; HRA/VEBA account; retirement benefits (PERS 2 or 3 and optional Deferred Compensation); 11 paid holidays; up to 2 personal holidays; vacation leave accrual; sick leave accrual.

Ensures minimum safety standards are met for all structures within the City by reviewing plans and specifications for code compliance, inspecting construction, and enforcing municipal and building codes.

Performs various duties to accommodate growth, including interpreting codes, providing alternatives for compliance, and conducting plan‑check reviews of proposed projects.

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

• Conduct physical inspections of construction projects at each phase to ensure compliance with applicable codes and safety standards.
• Review construction applications and plans to verify code compliance.
• Review construction plans and specifications for compliance prior to issuance of permits and during construction.
• Approve permits for new construction and remodeling projects.
• Approve occupancy permits upon project completion.
• Answer questions and inquiries from the public, contractors, and others accurately and promptly; provide code interpretations.
• Coordinate with all involved parties during ongoing construction projects.
• Assist with preparation of monthly and quarterly reports to state and local agencies of building activity.
• Conduct inspections on City facilities as needed.
• Document and retain files of customer questions related to project coordination, especially contacts regarding problem solving.
• Remain current on all code changes through continuing education.
• Perform other duties assigned by the Deputy Director, Community Development.
• Reliable and regular attendance is required.
• Other duties as assigned.

The position will have a variety of contacts in person, via telephone, electronic communication, or mail correspondence with citizens, various City departments and personnel, planning groups, agencies, contractors, and design professionals.

Work is performed indoors and outdoors, may involve confined spaces and noisy areas, exposure to hazards (temperature extremes, chemicals, fumes, machinery, trenches, traffic, specialized equipment). Protective clothing or equipment may be required. Telecommuting is permitted at the supervisor’s discretion. May be required to attend meetings outside normal hours.

Knowledge of building plans, specifications, international, Washington state, and local building codes, uniform plumbing code, modern construction methods, structural engineering concepts, inspection techniques, recordkeeping, permit systems, office procedures, tools.

Ability to interpret and apply codes, read blueprints and specifications, conduct on‑site inspections, calculate basic math, maintain accurate records, respond professionally, communicate clearly, build relationships, prioritize workload, multitask, demonstrate fairness and impartial judgment, work with little direction.

Must have stamina to perform moderate to strenuous activity, stand or walk for long periods, work in and on construction structures, climb, bend, work in tight or confined areas. Close vision, color vision, depth perception, far vision essential; corrective lenses may be used. Must hear alarms and identify hazards.

High school diploma or GED and three years of experience in construction trades, land use code enforcement, or as a construction inspector, building inspector, or plan reviewer. Valid driver’s license required; out of state candidates must obtain a Washington state driver’s license.

Certification as an ICC Residential Building Inspector, ICC Commercial Building Inspector, or ICC Plans Examiner.

Any combination of experience and training that provides the desired skills, knowledge, and abilities may be considered. Requirements may be modified to accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to health and safety.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change as the employer’s needs and the job’s requirements change.