In order to hire and maintain a quality workforce that reflects the diversity of the community and works well within our True North values-based organization, the Permitting Division of the Department of Local Services (DLS) is accepting applications for the career-service position of Building Inspector (General Inspector II).    The Permitting Division is seeking a Building Inspector (General Inspector II). The person in this role will perform field inspections of single family, multi-family, commercial buildings and other structures to ensure compliance with adopted building codes and other applicable codes and regulations. This position works within a team of six Inspectors, each independently conducting field inspections throughout the county, on a daily basis.  Due to its independent nature, this role requires keen ability to use professional judgement to make prompt decisions and necessitates a high level of customer service skills. This role leads and participates in multi-disciplinary pre-construction conferences and is responsible for researching code requirements and permit histories. The ability to maintain a positive relationship with a diverse customer base, superior record keeping and communication skills are key aspects of this position.

Job Duties

Applying equity and social justice principles{tabindex="0" rel="nofollow"} is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role, you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of the work.   To be considered for this opportunity, you must at a minimum, demonstrate knowledge, skill and ability to: 

Inspect building projects to ensure compliance with National, State, and local building codes and applicable regulations.  Perform final inspections and authorize certificates of occupancy, coordinating with other disciplines such as Site/Fire Inspectors.

Perform erosion control, drainage and critical areas inspections on single family residences and small development projects.  Recognize erosion concerns and take effective action to keep sediment on site and from entering draining system. 

Act as an Ambassador for the County by working collaboratively with team members, colleagues, permit holders and residents in a postive and open manner.

Review building and related permit applications documents to ensure construction proposals meet code requirements for life and safety, structural integrity, energy performance, accessibility, mechanical and other applicable codes.  

Issue correction notices and stop work orders for non-conforming conditions.  Initiate code enforcement action including notification and documentation.  

Perform damage investigations and advise on permitting requirements to resolve.

Provide public with information on codes, regulations, and permit requirements.  Receive and respond to complaints about buildings/construction from citizens, other agencies and jurisdictions, King County Council and Executive staff.

Interpret and apply codes and regulations for architects, engineers, developers, contractors, and property owners. Provide direct customer assistance for the public, design professionals, property owners on building code questions and their application and the permit process.  

Offer alternatives and initiate problem-solving conferences with owners, contractors, and design professionals.  

Coordinate inspection approvals with other sections and agencies.  

Communicate on the job in ways that reflect well upon King County, th