City of Lake Stevens
Building Inspector I or II
City of Lake Stevens, Lake Stevens, Washington, United States, 98258
Position Summary
The City of Lake Stevens, Department of Community Development, is now hiring for a great career opportunity! Recruitment is now open for the position of Building Inspector I or II, depending on applicant qualifications. Duties and required qualifications to distinguish a Building Inspector I or Building Inspector II are available in the attached job descriptions.
Start date of this position will be January 2, 2026.
Salary Ranges:
Building Inspector I: $7,213.29 - $9,127.12 per month
Building Inspector II: $7,767.93 - $9,828.91 per month
Under general direction of the Building Official the incumbent will perform inspections and enforcement activities pertaining to the construction, alteration and repair of commercial and residential structures to ensure that building, plumbing, mechanical, energy conservation, and all other applicable codes and standards are met. This position also participates in permitting operations and assists in maintaining inspection documents and building permit records. The incumbent is part of a collaborative work team and is responsive to inquiries from members of the public, contractors, developers and co-workers.
Work is characterized by performing independent, routine and some specialized duties requiring the ability to make decisions and take responsibility for such decisions while performing building inspections and review of building plans and permits.
Work is performed under limited supervision. Supervisor sets the overall objectives and resources available. Incumbent and supervisor work together to develop the deadlines, projects, and work to be completed. Incumbent is responsible for the work, plans and carries out the assignment, resolves most conflicts that arise, coordinates work with others, and interprets policies on own initiative in terms of established objectives. Incumbent keeps supervisor informed of progress, potentially controversial matters, or far reaching implications. Work is reviewed in terms of feasibility, compatibility with other work, or effectiveness of results.
About The City of Lake Stevens Lake Stevens is a vibrant and growing community - the second fastest-growing city in Snohomish County - with a population of over 40,000 makes us the 4th largest city in the county. Lake Stevens is generally a residential community with access to numerous commercial, retail and recreational opportunities. Of course, the crown jewel of the community is the lake itself, which boasts some of the greatest water recreational opportunities in the county. Lake Stevens is also uniquely situated, being close to the lake, ocean, and Cascade mountains, to take advantage of many outdoor activities. The Lake Stevens Schools are excellent and coupled with a city priority of parks and increased walkability, makes Lake Stevens an ideal place to raise a family.
The City of Lake Stevens operates under the mayor-council system. The city’s motto, “One Community Around the Lake”, embodies our quality of life, top-ranked school district, and the City Council’s commitment to providing excellent services and amenities for its residents.
Why City of Lake Stevens
Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individual's lifestyle.
Work Where you Live!
The City of Lake Stevens offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
Retirement - through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems.
Deferred Compensation - with city match.
Excellent healthcare options - including medical, dental, vision insurance, city-paid life insurance and long-term disability, health savings accounts (HSA), and Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA/VEBA).
Paid leave - including paid sick leave, paid vacation, flexible holidays, paid holidays, and bereavement leave.
See our benefits page for a complete list of all the benefits available to City of Lake Stevens employees.
Essential duties and responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following:
Performs on-site residential and commercial building inspections during various stages of construction, remodeling and repair to ensure compliance with city codes and ordinances, safety standards, state and national codes, including the International Building, Residential and Mechanical codes, Uniform Plumbing code, Accessibility code, Washington State Energy Code and other adopted codes
Read and interpret approved plans and specifications for commercial and residential construction to ensure compliance with applicable laws, ordinances and codes (including but not limited to, building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, fire, and energy codes) and municipal codes to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public
Inspects existing buildings and premises for changes of use, occupancy, or compliance with applicable codes and ordinances
Inspects dangerous structures subject to condemnation for fire and life safety requirements; inspects damaged or deteriorating structures to determine needed repairs;
Document any corrective actions and re-inspections required; meet or talk to developer about corrections
Document and refer code violations to other staff with review responsibilities
Verify that as-built or open-for-inspection construction conforms to the approved plans and codes
Assist developers, contractors and individuals to comply with codes and provide alternative actions which are acceptable based on specific site and job issues
Keep informed of changes and new legislation pertaining to building codes and related regulations
Approve final inspection for issuance of certificates of completion or occupancy
Receive and review field inspection reports from special inspection agencies and other registered professionals pursuant to the approved plans and documents
Make field determinations of scope and method of work to be performed based on approved plans; authorize field changes to plans when required
Respond to questions and concerns from the public, property owners, architects, engineers, and contractors regarding interpretation of and compliance with code requirements; provides information as appropriate and resolves complaints; establishes and maintains a customer service orientation within the Building Division
Communicates with fire, water, sewer and other community and governmental agencies in the performance of inspection and building code enforcement
Conducts research, writes letters and prepares written reports. Enters all inspection reports and related documents into the city’s permit tracking system and address filing system
Maintain documents and records necessary for the position and the department
Physical Demands and Work Environment The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; talk; and hear. The employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms and to stand and walk; the employee is occasionally required to climb or balance; and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. While in the office environment, the employee frequently is required to sit for extended periods of time and type on a keyboard for extended periods of time. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance, color, and peripheral vision; depth perception; and the ability to adjust focus.
Work is usually performed in both an office and field environment subject to driving to offsite locations to perform inspections or to investigate issues. The field environment may include, but not be limited to, all types of weather conditions and perhaps potential hazards from unconfined animals, dilapidated structures and litter. Walking over rough, uneven terrain and some climbing may be required. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally be exposed individuals who may possibly be irate or hostile. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
Evening or variable hours to attend meetings may be required.
Education, Training And Experience Guidelines Building Inspector I Education:
High school diploma or equivalent;
Experience:
Three (3) years of building inspection experience or general building construction, preferred;
or
Two (2) years of residential construction experience (candidate will be required to obtain International Residential Code (IRC) Plan/Review Certification and Inspection within first six months of employment)
Building Inspector II Education:
High School Diploma or equivalent and
Two International Code Council (ICC) Inspector certifications and
Two International Code Council (ICC) Plan Review certifications
Combination Residential and Commercial certifications or Commercial Inspector certifications are preferred
Experience:
Possess the equivalent of three years of journey-level construction experience, preferably in two major trades with specialized training in building inspection technology or closely related field; -or-
Three years' experience as a Building Inspector I and/or II
Or: Any combination of education and experience, which provides the applicant with the desired skills, knowledge and ability required to perform the job, may be substituted for these qualifications.
Knowledge Of
Principles, practices, methods, and standards of building construction standards.
Applicable federal, state and local laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures related to building codes.
Structure, organization and interrelationships of city departments, agencies and related governmental agencies and offices affecting assigned functions.
Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
Correct usage of English grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary.
Effective oral and written communication principles and practices to include public speaking and professional business letter writing.
Modern office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and computer applications such as: word processing, spreadsheets, and statistical databases.
Electronic permit and inspection tracking software.
How artificial intelligence (AI) and automation technologies are used to enhance public service delivery, decision-making, and operational efficiency.
Ability To
Maintain regular, predictable and reliable attendance during scheduled hours.
Participate as a contributing member of a service-oriented team.
Make sound decisions within established guidelines; and follow written and oral directions; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with assigned team, staff, management, contractors, developers, outside agencies, community groups and the public.
Organize, prioritize and follow-up on work assignments; work independently and as part of a team
Apply knowledge to specific projects under inspection jurisdiction
Communicate technical information and requirements in a clear and accurate fashion both verbally and in writing
Enforce codes evenly and fairly without prejudice, preferential treatment, or malice
Work in adverse weather conditions and on hazardous construction sites
Make field decisions based on adopted codes, ordinances, policies, and standards
Request assistance from other department staff about alternate approval options and department operations needed for job performance
Develop rapport with a variety of people and elicit cooperation
Be assertive as the situation demands
Work with angry people, defuse potentially hostile situations, and resolve disputes in the interest of code compliance in a respectful manner
Perform a variety of basic construction-related calculations
Meet deadlines and organize daily work effectively and in cooperation with other staff
Read plans and specifications to evaluate actual construction consistency and compliance with approved plans and code provisions
Write clear and legible narrative inspection reports and correction notices
Adapt to emerging techniques, construction technologies, electronic technologies, and codes; and keep proficient in currently adopted codes
Learn applicable computer applications, software, and peripheral equipment quickly and effectively.
Conduct technical research, gather and analyze data, and present findings or recommendations.
Handle multiple tasks accurately and reliably in a busy, demanding work environment.
Maintain confidentiality and communicate with tact and diplomacy.
Demonstrate positive and effective interaction and communication with individuals of diverse social and economic backgrounds.
Skilled In
Record keeping techniques and in using related technology.
Preparing clear and concise correspondence and written materials.
Analyzing situations accurately and adopting an effective course of action.
Communicate effectively, orally and in writing, including the ability to listen effectively and to explain complex issues and applicable legal requirements, policies, and procedures to internal and external customers.
License, Certifications, And Other Requirements
Valid State of Washington Driver’s License and a driving record which meets the city’s requirements
International Residential Code (IRC) Residential Building Inspector certification, required
International Residential Code (IRC) Plan/Review Certification and Inspection, preferred
And any combination of two (2) the following certifications:
Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) or International Plumbing Code (IPC) Residential or Commercial Plumbing Inspector certification preferred or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire date or as agreed upon
International Mechanical Code (IMC) Residential or Commercial Mechanical Inspector certification preferred or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire date or as agreed upon
International Building Code (IBC) Commercial Building Inspector certification preferred or ability to obtain within twelve (12) months of hire date or as agreed upon
Completion of position-relevant background check
How to Apply Applications For This Recruitment Will Be Accepted Electronically. Your Relevant Experience May Be Evaluated To Determine Salary. Therefore, It Is Very Important That The “Work Experience” Portion Of The Application Be Completed In As Much Detail As Possible. In Order To Be Considered For This Opportunity, Please Include The Following With Your Online Application:
An attached resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
A cover letter explaining your qualifications and why you believe you are a viable candidate for this position
Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.
The City of Lake Stevens is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic information, veteran’s status, disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. There are no limitations to who’s a best fit to serve this community. If we contact you for an interview and you need specific accommodations, please let us know. Please contact Human Resources at (425) 622-9400, ten (10) days in advance to allow time for us to make proper arrangements. You’re also welcome to mail your request to City of Lake Stevens Human Resources, P.O. Box 257, Lake Stevens, WA 98258; or email to HR@lakestevenswa.gov.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Start date of this position will be January 2, 2026.
Salary Ranges:
Building Inspector I: $7,213.29 - $9,127.12 per month
Building Inspector II: $7,767.93 - $9,828.91 per month
Under general direction of the Building Official the incumbent will perform inspections and enforcement activities pertaining to the construction, alteration and repair of commercial and residential structures to ensure that building, plumbing, mechanical, energy conservation, and all other applicable codes and standards are met. This position also participates in permitting operations and assists in maintaining inspection documents and building permit records. The incumbent is part of a collaborative work team and is responsive to inquiries from members of the public, contractors, developers and co-workers.
Work is characterized by performing independent, routine and some specialized duties requiring the ability to make decisions and take responsibility for such decisions while performing building inspections and review of building plans and permits.
Work is performed under limited supervision. Supervisor sets the overall objectives and resources available. Incumbent and supervisor work together to develop the deadlines, projects, and work to be completed. Incumbent is responsible for the work, plans and carries out the assignment, resolves most conflicts that arise, coordinates work with others, and interprets policies on own initiative in terms of established objectives. Incumbent keeps supervisor informed of progress, potentially controversial matters, or far reaching implications. Work is reviewed in terms of feasibility, compatibility with other work, or effectiveness of results.
About The City of Lake Stevens Lake Stevens is a vibrant and growing community - the second fastest-growing city in Snohomish County - with a population of over 40,000 makes us the 4th largest city in the county. Lake Stevens is generally a residential community with access to numerous commercial, retail and recreational opportunities. Of course, the crown jewel of the community is the lake itself, which boasts some of the greatest water recreational opportunities in the county. Lake Stevens is also uniquely situated, being close to the lake, ocean, and Cascade mountains, to take advantage of many outdoor activities. The Lake Stevens Schools are excellent and coupled with a city priority of parks and increased walkability, makes Lake Stevens an ideal place to raise a family.
The City of Lake Stevens operates under the mayor-council system. The city’s motto, “One Community Around the Lake”, embodies our quality of life, top-ranked school district, and the City Council’s commitment to providing excellent services and amenities for its residents.
Why City of Lake Stevens
Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individual's lifestyle.
Work Where you Live!
The City of Lake Stevens offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
Retirement - through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems.
Deferred Compensation - with city match.
Excellent healthcare options - including medical, dental, vision insurance, city-paid life insurance and long-term disability, health savings accounts (HSA), and Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA/VEBA).
Paid leave - including paid sick leave, paid vacation, flexible holidays, paid holidays, and bereavement leave.
See our benefits page for a complete list of all the benefits available to City of Lake Stevens employees.
Essential duties and responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following:
Performs on-site residential and commercial building inspections during various stages of construction, remodeling and repair to ensure compliance with city codes and ordinances, safety standards, state and national codes, including the International Building, Residential and Mechanical codes, Uniform Plumbing code, Accessibility code, Washington State Energy Code and other adopted codes
Read and interpret approved plans and specifications for commercial and residential construction to ensure compliance with applicable laws, ordinances and codes (including but not limited to, building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, fire, and energy codes) and municipal codes to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public
Inspects existing buildings and premises for changes of use, occupancy, or compliance with applicable codes and ordinances
Inspects dangerous structures subject to condemnation for fire and life safety requirements; inspects damaged or deteriorating structures to determine needed repairs;
Document any corrective actions and re-inspections required; meet or talk to developer about corrections
Document and refer code violations to other staff with review responsibilities
Verify that as-built or open-for-inspection construction conforms to the approved plans and codes
Assist developers, contractors and individuals to comply with codes and provide alternative actions which are acceptable based on specific site and job issues
Keep informed of changes and new legislation pertaining to building codes and related regulations
Approve final inspection for issuance of certificates of completion or occupancy
Receive and review field inspection reports from special inspection agencies and other registered professionals pursuant to the approved plans and documents
Make field determinations of scope and method of work to be performed based on approved plans; authorize field changes to plans when required
Respond to questions and concerns from the public, property owners, architects, engineers, and contractors regarding interpretation of and compliance with code requirements; provides information as appropriate and resolves complaints; establishes and maintains a customer service orientation within the Building Division
Communicates with fire, water, sewer and other community and governmental agencies in the performance of inspection and building code enforcement
Conducts research, writes letters and prepares written reports. Enters all inspection reports and related documents into the city’s permit tracking system and address filing system
Maintain documents and records necessary for the position and the department
Physical Demands and Work Environment The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; talk; and hear. The employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms and to stand and walk; the employee is occasionally required to climb or balance; and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. While in the office environment, the employee frequently is required to sit for extended periods of time and type on a keyboard for extended periods of time. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance, color, and peripheral vision; depth perception; and the ability to adjust focus.
Work is usually performed in both an office and field environment subject to driving to offsite locations to perform inspections or to investigate issues. The field environment may include, but not be limited to, all types of weather conditions and perhaps potential hazards from unconfined animals, dilapidated structures and litter. Walking over rough, uneven terrain and some climbing may be required. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally be exposed individuals who may possibly be irate or hostile. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
Evening or variable hours to attend meetings may be required.
Education, Training And Experience Guidelines Building Inspector I Education:
High school diploma or equivalent;
Experience:
Three (3) years of building inspection experience or general building construction, preferred;
or
Two (2) years of residential construction experience (candidate will be required to obtain International Residential Code (IRC) Plan/Review Certification and Inspection within first six months of employment)
Building Inspector II Education:
High School Diploma or equivalent and
Two International Code Council (ICC) Inspector certifications and
Two International Code Council (ICC) Plan Review certifications
Combination Residential and Commercial certifications or Commercial Inspector certifications are preferred
Experience:
Possess the equivalent of three years of journey-level construction experience, preferably in two major trades with specialized training in building inspection technology or closely related field; -or-
Three years' experience as a Building Inspector I and/or II
Or: Any combination of education and experience, which provides the applicant with the desired skills, knowledge and ability required to perform the job, may be substituted for these qualifications.
Knowledge Of
Principles, practices, methods, and standards of building construction standards.
Applicable federal, state and local laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures related to building codes.
Structure, organization and interrelationships of city departments, agencies and related governmental agencies and offices affecting assigned functions.
Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
Correct usage of English grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary.
Effective oral and written communication principles and practices to include public speaking and professional business letter writing.
Modern office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and computer applications such as: word processing, spreadsheets, and statistical databases.
Electronic permit and inspection tracking software.
How artificial intelligence (AI) and automation technologies are used to enhance public service delivery, decision-making, and operational efficiency.
Ability To
Maintain regular, predictable and reliable attendance during scheduled hours.
Participate as a contributing member of a service-oriented team.
Make sound decisions within established guidelines; and follow written and oral directions; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with assigned team, staff, management, contractors, developers, outside agencies, community groups and the public.
Organize, prioritize and follow-up on work assignments; work independently and as part of a team
Apply knowledge to specific projects under inspection jurisdiction
Communicate technical information and requirements in a clear and accurate fashion both verbally and in writing
Enforce codes evenly and fairly without prejudice, preferential treatment, or malice
Work in adverse weather conditions and on hazardous construction sites
Make field decisions based on adopted codes, ordinances, policies, and standards
Request assistance from other department staff about alternate approval options and department operations needed for job performance
Develop rapport with a variety of people and elicit cooperation
Be assertive as the situation demands
Work with angry people, defuse potentially hostile situations, and resolve disputes in the interest of code compliance in a respectful manner
Perform a variety of basic construction-related calculations
Meet deadlines and organize daily work effectively and in cooperation with other staff
Read plans and specifications to evaluate actual construction consistency and compliance with approved plans and code provisions
Write clear and legible narrative inspection reports and correction notices
Adapt to emerging techniques, construction technologies, electronic technologies, and codes; and keep proficient in currently adopted codes
Learn applicable computer applications, software, and peripheral equipment quickly and effectively.
Conduct technical research, gather and analyze data, and present findings or recommendations.
Handle multiple tasks accurately and reliably in a busy, demanding work environment.
Maintain confidentiality and communicate with tact and diplomacy.
Demonstrate positive and effective interaction and communication with individuals of diverse social and economic backgrounds.
Skilled In
Record keeping techniques and in using related technology.
Preparing clear and concise correspondence and written materials.
Analyzing situations accurately and adopting an effective course of action.
Communicate effectively, orally and in writing, including the ability to listen effectively and to explain complex issues and applicable legal requirements, policies, and procedures to internal and external customers.
License, Certifications, And Other Requirements
Valid State of Washington Driver’s License and a driving record which meets the city’s requirements
International Residential Code (IRC) Residential Building Inspector certification, required
International Residential Code (IRC) Plan/Review Certification and Inspection, preferred
And any combination of two (2) the following certifications:
Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) or International Plumbing Code (IPC) Residential or Commercial Plumbing Inspector certification preferred or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire date or as agreed upon
International Mechanical Code (IMC) Residential or Commercial Mechanical Inspector certification preferred or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire date or as agreed upon
International Building Code (IBC) Commercial Building Inspector certification preferred or ability to obtain within twelve (12) months of hire date or as agreed upon
Completion of position-relevant background check
How to Apply Applications For This Recruitment Will Be Accepted Electronically. Your Relevant Experience May Be Evaluated To Determine Salary. Therefore, It Is Very Important That The “Work Experience” Portion Of The Application Be Completed In As Much Detail As Possible. In Order To Be Considered For This Opportunity, Please Include The Following With Your Online Application:
An attached resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
A cover letter explaining your qualifications and why you believe you are a viable candidate for this position
Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.
The City of Lake Stevens is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic information, veteran’s status, disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. There are no limitations to who’s a best fit to serve this community. If we contact you for an interview and you need specific accommodations, please let us know. Please contact Human Resources at (425) 622-9400, ten (10) days in advance to allow time for us to make proper arrangements. You’re also welcome to mail your request to City of Lake Stevens Human Resources, P.O. Box 257, Lake Stevens, WA 98258; or email to HR@lakestevenswa.gov.
#J-18808-Ljbffr