BUILDING INSPECTOR

Position: Building Inspector I/II/III


FLSA: Non-Exempt

Department: Development Services


Schedule: Flexible schedule Monday through Friday. Work schedule to be determined by department needs. Position may require evenings and weekends.

Reports To: Director of Development Services


Positions Supervised: As Assigned



Job Summary


Responsible for providing moderate to complex professional technical inspection work to ensure compliance with adopted building codes; may assist with electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and combination codes, zoning ordinances, property maintenance codes, and public health and food safety inspections. Work ranges from routine inspection of single-family residences to complex commercial projects and code enforcement investigations, based on the assigned level, and is essential to the efficient operation of the department. Key responsibilities require a high level of detailed analysis of on-site construction, review of construction documents, and the ability to effectively communicate corrections as necessary. The position maintains the department's credibility, accuracy, and integrity through complex review of construction projects and coordination with internal and external agencies.

A Building Inspector focuses primarily on the structural integrity and compliance of a building's shell and core, checking foundations, framing, fire safety, general construction methods, and building materials for compliance with adopted building codes and municipal ordinances.

The core duties of a Building Inspector remain consistent across all levels: to ensure construction projects comply with applicable building codes, ordinances, and safety regulations. The progression from Level I to Level III reflects increasing responsibility, complexity of assigned projects, and a higher degree of independent judgment and technical expertise.

• Building Inspector I: Handles routine and simpler inspections, often residential, and a defined set of duties with some supervision. Must obtain ICC Certification as Residential Building Inspector and Residential Energy Inspector within one year of employment.
• Building Inspector II: Handles a full range of duties, including moderately difficult commercial or industrial buildings. Performs more complex inspections and may have a greater degree of independence. Requires a minimum of one year of experience as Building Inspector I and required credentials, plus two additional ICC Certifications: Commercial Building Inspector, Energy Inspector, Accessibility Inspector, or equivalents. Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners licensed plumbing inspector preferred.
• Building Inspector III: Handles the most complex duties; may involve plan review, supervising and training subordinate inspectors, and providing expert technical guidance. Requires a minimum of one year of experience as Building Inspector II, all credentials required for Building Inspector II plus two additional ICC certifications or equivalent, and Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners licensed plumbing inspector.

Roles & Responsibilities

Customer Service Focus

• Manages and tracks citizen requests for service or information, ensuring timely follow-up and resolution.
• Completes data entry of inspection activity results to ensure data integrity and adherence to processes and procedures.
• Investigates internal and external stakeholder concerns; performs research, coordinates and facilitates necessary actions to resolve concerns; communicates directly with stakeholders using appropriate written, verbal, or in-person follow-up.

Office Management & Support

• Reviews, updates, and maintains Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Performs both assigned and independent staff work, including skilled administrative and operational duties such as research, preparation, and implementation of operating reports; makes recommendations for improving service delivery.
• Researches various city policies and procedures; drafts proposed modifications and develops recommendations.
• Facilitates information flow and follow-up between internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintains detailed records and filing systems, both physical and digital, ensuring easy retrieval of information.
• May perform delegated supervision on behalf of immediate supervisor and represent supervisor in his/her absence.

Technical Records and Data Management

• Maintains the integrity of all official development records, including archived plans and documents, in compliance with records retention regulations.
• Assists in managing and updating data within multiple databases to ensure public-facing information on development status is current and accurate.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Requires time-management skills, self-motivation, and ability to operate modern office equipment and computers.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet critical deadlines.
• Knowledge of municipal government operations, particularly in development-related processes.
• Ability to read, interpret, and research Federal or State regulations, technical handbooks, ordinances, or statutes.
• Ability to interpret and apply departmental policies and procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and document preparation.
• Proficiency in learning specialized software for permit tracking, GIS, or other development-related applications.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and problem-solving skills.
• Regular, reliable, and punctual levels of attendance are essential job functions and expectations of this position.

Environmental Conditions

• Work is primarily performed outdoors and may be subject to environmental or safety hazards in all types of weather conditions at inspection sites, with some work in an office environment. Inspectors may be exposed to construction site hazards, uneven walking surfaces, high and low temperatures, high humidity, fumes, gas, and dust.
• Work may be subject to time pressures, occasional noisy environment, irregular work schedule, frequent task changes, performing multiple tasks simultaneously, working as part of a team, and dealing with difficult situations.
• May occasionally require attendance at evening meetings or events at outdoor and indoor venues.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Associate or bachelor's degree in applied sciences, public administration, or related field is preferred.
• Two (2) years of experience in construction, vocational, or related field.
• Any combination of related education, experience, certifications, and licenses that will result in a candidate successfully performing the essential functions of the job may be considered.
• Valid Texas Driver's License with driving record that meets City guidelines.