Mechanical Inspector, Journey

Position Description

The Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) is seeking qualified candidates for the Mechanical Inspector, Journey position to conduct daily inspections of HVAC equipment, refrigeration license inspections, and perform complaint investigations for the City of Seattle.

Job Responsibilities

• Inspecting new installations of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems in commercial structures and stair and elevator shaft pressurization systems in high‑rise buildings.
• Independently inspecting complex mechanical equipment and associated ductwork and controls of commercial HVAC systems and refrigeration piping; inspecting equipment size and rating.
• Providing code interpretation, applying energy code standards to mechanical equipment, consulting and instructing building inspectors; and preparing inspection reports and correspondence.
• Inspecting existing HVAC systems for continuing certification.
• Determining the type of test to be performed.
• Performing permit inspections to ensure proper installation and operation of newly‑installed mechanical systems for compliance with existing codes and laws.
• Performing repair inspections to evaluate proposed method of repair, qualifications and written procedures and to monitor repair work.
• Planning and scheduling inspections and processing of permits and monthly inspection reports.
• Conducting investigations of failures, accidents to determine causes and recommend policies and procedures to prevent reoccurrence.
• Meeting with customers on their respective job sites. Customers typically include property owners, renters, contractors, vendors, and insurance investigators/inspectors. The Inspector must work collaboratively with a wide variety of staff, citizens and other stakeholders toward successful outcomes.
• Understanding and committing to actively supporting the City and Department goals in promoting racial equity and social justice.
• Maintaining awareness of changing code cycles applicable to application for inspection purposes.
• Participating on a collaborative team as an engaged member.
• Successfully using numerous software products such as MS Word, Outlook and the internet to conduct research.

Qualifications

Two years of increasingly responsible experience performing work equivalent to a Mechanical Inspector (Journey) with the City of Seattle, which will include experience in design, layout, installation, and maintenance of mechanical systems, and a two‑year degree in Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Technology, or a similar field. Other combinations of education, training, and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis for comparability.

Physical

Demands

Occasionally inspections are conducted in buildings under construction, which may require exposure to adverse weather conditions, climbing, crawling, construction‑site machinery, and hazards. Inspectors may be required to climb and crawl in small spaces and perform refrigeration inspections that expose them to hazardous refrigerants.

License, Certification and Other Requirements

Current Washington State driver’s license or evidence of equivalent mobility.

Successful Candidates Will Possess The Following Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Organizational and time‑management skills are essential.
• Ability to work in an environment with multiple projects and priorities.
• Initiative and independent judgment within defined procedures and practices required.
• Ability to successfully work with customers and contractors.
• Good interpersonal and customer‑service skills.

Additional Information

To be considered for this position, please submit the following with your online application:

• A cover letter in which you clearly describe how your knowledge, experience, skills, and abilities prepare you for the job responsibilities and qualifications outlined in the job advertisement.
• A current resume outlining your professional work experience.

The full salary range for this position is $51.29–$59.81 per hour. New employees begin at Step 1 of the pay progression, which is $51.29 per hour. Current City employees’ starting rate of pay will be based on…