Electrical Inspector- Buildings, Safety Engineering & Environmental Department

Electrical Inspector

We create safe environments for city residents.

The Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) mission is to provide for the safety, health and welfare of the general public as it pertains to buildings and their environs in an efficient, cost-effective, user-friendly and professional manner.

BSEED enforces construction, property maintenance, environmental compliance and zoning codes, which preserve and enhance property values and promote quality of life to make Detroit a preferred place to reside and conduct business.

Under general supervision, inspects electric lighting, heat, power and fire alarm installations to ensure compliance with applicable codes and City of Detroit ordinances, approved plans and accepted standards and methods of work. Examines plans for compliance with applicable codes, laws and ordinances for the approval of an application for permits.

Examples of duties include:

• Performs thorough inspections of new, renovated and existing premises' wiring systems in one and two-family dwellings, apartments, commercial and institutional buildings, medical facilities and factories for compliance with the National Electrical Code and City Ordinances and to identify hazardous conditions.
• Investigates electrical work performed without a permit or by unlicensed persons per Department policy.
• Prepares reports of inspections.
• Performs investigations and reports of accidents and fires reported to have been of electrical origin.
• Investigates complaints of violations of codes and prepares notices of violations.
• Performs re-inspections of premises or equipment to determine corrections of code violations.
• Compiles information and prepares code violation cases for court.
• Appears and testifies regarding code violations in court cases.
• Prepares daily activities reports.
• Assists in examining applicants for licenses issued by the Division.
• Assists in the training of new employees assigned to the activity.

Minimum qualifications include:

• High School graduation or GED.
• Two years of training in electrical principles and their practical application to the field of electricity with a reputable concern.
• One year of related trade instruction at a recognized institute of higher learning preferred.
• A minimum of two years as a Licensed Electrical Journeyperson with experience in the construction, maintenance, and testing of electrical installations and equipment, preferably including one year of experience in the inspection and/or supervisory phases of the work.

License, certification and other special requirements include:

• Valid Journeyman or Master Electrician License required.
• Employees in this class will be required to provide and operate a motor vehicle on a reimbursed mileage basis, a valid State of Michigan Operator license is required.

Additional points may be awarded for:

• Veteran Points: 0 – 15 points
• Detroit Residency Credit: 15 points

Knowledge of:

• The materials, operations, construction, and trade practices related to electrical construction.
• The elementary electrical engineering principles governing the operation of electrical equipment.

Skill in:

• Communicating effectively, both orally and in writing with tact and diplomacy.
• Observation.
• Physical and mechanical dexterity.
• Use of personal computers and common office software.

Ability to:

• Read and interpret plans and specifications.
• Train and instruct the work of others.
• Climb ladders and enter manholes, narrow openings and crawl spaces, and to move along narrow, exposed platforms and beams.
• Demonstrate freedom from fear of high places and confined spaces.
• Work in hot, dusty places.
• Withstand noxious odors.
• Handle inspection problems.
• Detect potential hazards.
• Interact effectively with the public, peers, and other departmental personnel.
• Interpret and apply National Electrical Code requirements.

Distinguishing characteristics include:

• Fieldwork involves exposure to outside elements and seasonal weather conditions and indoor exposure to residential, commercial or industrial property in various conditions and stages of repair or construction.
• Customer contacts require a neat and clean appearance.