Senior Building Inspector

Responsibilities

Under general supervision, performs journey-level building inspection and enforcement work involving single-family residential dwellings and multifamily residential construction; provides lead direction, technical assistance, and mentoring to inspection staff; oversees complex residential and non-residential projects; and performs related work as required.

Three years of progressively responsible journey-level building inspection experience performing single-family residential, non-residential, and multifamily residential inspections; or an equivalent combination of related training and experience.

Must possess the following certification(s) at the time of application:

• ICC Residential Combination Inspector certification
• OR all of the following certifications:
  • ICC Residential Building Inspector certification
  • ICC Residential Electrical Inspector certification
  • ICC Residential Mechanical Inspector certification
  • ICC Residential Plumbing Inspector certification
• Must possess an ICC Commercial Building Inspector certification and one additional ICC commercial inspection certification at the time of appointment and maintain such certifications for continued employment in this classification.
• Must obtain an ICC Combination Commercial Inspector certification or its equivalent within one year of appointment and must be maintained for continued employment in this classification.

A valid driver's license is required at the time of appointment and must be maintained for continued employment in this classification.

• Extensive knowledge of residential, multifamily, and commercial building construction, inspection practices, and applicable building, safety, and County codes.
• The ability to interpret and apply building plans, blueprints, engineering specifications, and structural details to ensure code compliance.
• Strong technical expertise in identifying construction deficiencies, evaluating complex projects, and recommending practical code-compliant solutions.
• Experience performing inspections independently while exercising sound judgment and consistency in code interpretation and enforcement.
• Proven ability to provide lead direction, mentor and train inspection staff, and foster a collaborative, high-performing team environment.
• Excellent customer service skills, with the ability to communicate technical information clearly, professionally, and diplomatically to contractors, property owners, design professionals, and the public.
• Strong conflict resolution skills, with the ability to remain tactful and professional when addressing complaints, disputes, and challenging inspection situations.
• The ability to analyze complex situations, make sound decisions, and confidently enforce building codes, including issuing correction notices or stop work orders when necessary.
• A commitment to public safety, ethical decision-making, and consistent application of building codes and regulations.
• Experience coordinating with multiple agencies and stakeholders to facilitate project approvals and resolve construction or permitting issues.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple inspections, maintain accurate records, and prioritize competing workload demands.
• Proficiency using digital permitting systems, mobile inspection technology, and other software applications to document inspections and maintain records.
• A commitment to continuous learning, maintaining professional certifications, and staying current with changes in building codes, construction methods, and Industry best practices.
• A collaborative leadership style characterized by integrity, professionalism, sound judgment, and a commitment to mentoring others while delivering exceptional public service.

Washoe County requires its employees to reside in the state of Nevada or neighboring California communities such as Truckee, South Lake Tahoe or Susanville as of their first day of work.

Background checks will be conducted on selected applicants through the State of Nevada and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Employment is contingent upon the results of the background check.

Washoe County Employees Association (WCEA) Non-Supervisory Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) covers the Senior Building Inspector position.

Washoe County is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce that creates a sense of belonging for all employees and citizens, thereby encouraging persons from all backgrounds and experiences to apply for employment.

Washoe County will recruit, hire, train and promote into all job levels without regard to race, religion or belief, gender, marital status or domestic partnership, familial status, national origin, age, mental or physical disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, genetic information (GINA), veteran status, political affiliation, membership in an…