Code Inspector

Salary: $5,284.93 - $6,338.80 Monthly
Location: Yakima, WA
Job Type: Full-time
Department: Community Development
Division: Code Administration
Opening Date: 01/06/2026
Closing Date: 1/20/2026 4:00 PM Pacific

Under general supervision, drives to and inspects buildings and construction projects to ensure compliance with mechanical, plumbing, zoning, and municipal codes, and state, federal and other laws, rules and regulations. Provides technical assistance on compliance; reviews plans and blueprints to ensure that utilization of sound and current engineering procedures have been followed and that work is performed in accordance with approved plans.

Represents the City in a variety of public meetings; drives City vehicles; and performs other related duties. Work is performed with considerable latitude for exercising independent judgment in day-to-day matters.

Inspects existing and construction/remodeling work in progress to ensure compliance with mechanical, plumbing, and zoning codes, building and fire codes, the Municipal Code, Washington State amendments, Washington State Energy Code and accessibility codes. Performs acceptance of alarm and sprinkler systems including testing all smoke and heat detectors, pull stations, hydro testing of sprinkler systems and fire lines. Inspects fire caulking of building walls;

ensures proper installation and flushing fire sprinkler water lines connected to City water mains. Advises property owners, contractors, installers and others of compliance issues; explains requirements to ensure compliance; issues Correction Notices, Stop Work Orders and Certificates of Occupancy as appropriate. Inspects oil tanks for proper abandonment or removal and explains requirements for compliance. Inspects new installations of, or alterations to fire prevention systems for compliance with approved plans, specifications and applicable standards.

Assists in assessing buildings to ensure compliance with housing and dangerous building codes and to determine usability and habitable status. Inspects buildings to be moved for compliance with adopted Building Codes, Fire Code, Energy Code, accessibility codes, and zoning ordinances. Also inspects buildings after movement to ensure code compliance. Responds to requests from Police and Fire Departments to determine if damaged structures are habitable in whole or in part or must be demolished in whole or in part.

Coordinates with other city departments, state, local and other regulatory agencies regarding construction projects as necessary. Reviews blueprints of proposed construction/remodeling projects to ensure seismic bracing, engineered systems, alternate bracing, engineered structural components and others satisfy current engineering practices. May perform plan reviews of proposed projects as requested. Represents the division and City at Council meetings, community meetings, and various public meetings, meetings of special interest groups and pre-construction meetings.

Explains codes and processes and approves matters involving code enforcement. Conducts research and special studies as requested and prepares corresponding reports. Maintains records of inspections performed and prepares required reports. Operates a computer to prepare reports, correspondence, conduct research or searches and other authorized activities. May represent the City as a witness in court proceedings as necessary. Acts safely and responsibly when driving and/or operating vehicles and other motorized equipment to perform required duties.

Work is performed in a variety of locations and work/construction sites in a timely and efficient manner. Keeps licenses and certifications up-to-date and completes mandatory and otherwise assigned trainings as required. Contributes to the effectiveness of the Codes Administration Division by demonstrating an attitude that encourages cooperation and coordination of efforts and efficient use of resources.

Minimum Class Requirements:
High school diploma or GED and any combination of education and experience equivalent to two (2) years of journey level building construction experience. One (1) year of code enforcement or code inspection experience plus two additional certifications may substitute for the two (2) years of journey level building construction experience. Added certifications to include: a ICC Residential Building Inspector Certification and ICC Mechanical Inspector, ICC Building Plans Examiner or International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) Uniform Plumbing Code Inspector.

• Valid Commercial Building Inspector Certificate from the International Code Council (ICC) within six (6) months of appointment.
• Washington State Driver’s License.
• First Aid/CPR certificate within six (6) months of appointment.

Work is frequently performed outside and occasionally inside. Requires continuous use of both hands in…