Building Inspector 2 (OPEN & PROMOTIONAL)

Note: Current Employees must use the Workday Dashboard career section to apply for this position.

Employee Type:

Regular

Department:

Building and Code Enforcement

Salary:

$55,380.00 - $77,161.50 Annually / $4,615.00 - $6,430.13 Monthly / $28.40 - $39.57 Hourly

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

37.5

Overtime Eligibile:

Yes

Job Posting Date Range:

10/23/2026 - 11/13/2026

Job Summary:

PRIORITY CONSIDERATION WILL BE GIVEN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE APPLICABLE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT OR COUNTY POLICY.

NOTES: Position is primarily remote with once-a-week meeting in-office to start workday. Occasional in-office work required dependent upon department needs and inspection volumes.

The position allocated to this class is responsible for inspection and enforcement of the International Residential (IRC), Building (IBC), Fire (IFC), Mechanical and Fuel Gas Codes (IMG, IFGC), Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), Existing Building (IEBC), Washington State Energy (WSEC), 1997 Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings (UCAB), County land use regulations and other relevant codes, laws and statues as may be applicable to construction and development projects. The incumbent performs as a combination Building Inspector and is responsible for the inspection and enforcement of multiple codes. Work requires physical inspection of construction works for new and existing structures/appurtenances, ensuring code compliance; notification and correction of violations; application of technical knowledge of the referenced codes pertinent to construction and installations. Duties require knowledge of building design, construction and inspection techniques for residential, commercial and industrial buildings/projects. The incumbent must use judgement in identifying deviations from plans and work effectively with contractors, architects, engineers, suppliers, property owners and trades personnel to achieve compliance. Work is performed within stated department guidelines and applicable policies and procedures. Incumbents within this classification may be assigned to specific inspection districts by the Building Director and/or their designee.

Building Inspector 2 classification is distinguished from the Building Inspector 1 classification by the emphasis on independent field inspections and the plan reviews of more complex residential and commercial projects. Building Inspector 2 incumbents perform duties with minimal supervision, have greater in-depth knowledge of applicable codes and exercise independent judgement regarding the interpretation and application of code requirements to complex projects. Work requires greater knowledge of building, plumbing, mechanical, accessibility, energy, zoning, critical areas and other County codes than the Building Inspector 1 class.

Job Description:

The following documents are required to be submitted with your application. Applications that do not include all required documents may not be considered:
• Resume (include three professional references in resume)
• Cover Letter

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Conducts in-progress and final on-site inspections involving footings, foundations, rebar, concrete, masonry, fire sprinkler/fire alarm systems, framing, fire resistive construction, plumbing, mechanical, heating, ventilation, insulation, roofing and similar work primarily in structures constructed under the IRC; interpret application of codes; verifies manufacturer’s specifications/installation of listed appliances and products suitable to conditions; issues written approval/correction notices, and stop work notices; performs other function necessary to ensure that the building construction, materials, installation, alteration, or repair work is in conformance with the approved building plans, specifications and applicable building, fire, mechanical, plumbing, energy and other County codes, regulations, and ordinances.
• Performs related inspection activities such as: fire separation/zoning setbacks, grading, cutes and fills, soil characteristics, occupancy, egress/exiting, addressing, energy code compliance, emergency vehicle access. Inspector 1 positions are generally assisted by personnel with specific expertise in determinations involving: zoning issues, shoreline, stream and wetland buffers/setbacks, silt and erosion control measures, storm water/site drainage requirements, flood zone and other local or State requirements applicable to construction permits.
• Performs inspections entailing special actions; ensures compliance with imposed conditions set forth by the department or other County agency (e.g. Hearing Examiner decisions).
• Conducts inspections of Factory Assembled Structure (FAS) installation, including review of manufacturer’s installation instructions, setup including footings, blocking, shims, duct work, water lines and tie downs, and final inspection for skirting, ventilation, crawl access, guardrails, and installer certification requirements.
• Reviews proposed routine residential construction plans for conformance with the requirements of the IRC and other applicable laws and ordinances, denoting any necessary plan revisions and follow-ups with applicants, architects, engineers, contractors, or owners, securing necessary plan revisions.
• Coordinates inspections and related activities with contractors, property owners, architects, engineers, department staff, County officials, and other outside agencies.
• Accompanies Building Inspectors 1 — 2 in both the Building and Specialty classifications, and Senior Inspectors in more complex residential and commercial inspections for training/development purposes.
• Investigates public complaints pertaining to new and existing residential structures and their associated systems regarding alleged violations of County codes and ordinances; initiates resolution of the issue(s) and notification of parties of record or refers to appropriate individual or agency of authority.
• Prepares and maintains required records and reports; notifies builders, installers, property owners of code violations and necessary corrective actions; follows up on notices to ensure compliance; notifies supervisor of failure to correct violations.
• Works with Prosecuting Attorney staff in coordinating and preparing case files and affidavits for future enforcement actions; provides testimony in court/legal actions.
• Authorizes minor as-built variations during construction when life-safety, durability, and function are not compromised.
• Educates, supervises, and works with the construction industry to continue improvements to building safety.
• Provides technical and educational information, assisting department customers by phone, electronic communication, or in person with code requirements, permit application procedures, review of building plans; provides written or verbal information pertaining to code interpretations, occupancy/construction type, department policy, on-site deviations revealed as result of inspection or enforcement action.
• Shares information and experiences with other inspectors/staff in an effective, collaborative team environment.
• May be temporarily assigned to permit processing, or commercial plan review functions as part of ongoing career development.
• Inspection functions focus on commercial and complex residential structures, requiring an increased knowledge and awareness relative to building accessibility, landscaping, storm waters/site drainage, commercial refrigeration, and ventilation equipment typically associated with these types of structures.
• May be called upon to assist in the mentoring of individuals within the Building Inspector 1 class.
• Assists individuals within the Building and Specialty Inspector 1 — 2 and Senior Inspector classifications, in the performance of inspection and enforcement activities, as workloads demand.
• Maintains an elevated knowledge of Federal, State, and County regulations, and legislative processes.
• Performs other related duties as required/assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or GED equivalent, and
• Three (3) years of applicable full-time industry work experience relevant to the assigned field of responsibility, which includes a minimum of one (1) year experience equivalent to Building Inspector 1; or an equivalent combination of industry work experience and college level and/or professional training in construction inspection and building code enforcement.
• Certified — ICC Residential Building Inspector.
• One (1) additional certification requirement (other than electrical) from the following:
  • ICC Commercial Building Inspector
  • ICC Mechanical Inspector (Res. or Comm.)
  • ICC/IAPMO Plumbing Inspector (Res. or Comm.)
  • ICC Plans Examiner (Res. or Comm.)
  • ICC Fire Inspector (I or II)
• Note: For all license requirements, ICBO Legacy Certifications sanctioned by ICC in the categories of Building Inspector, Mechanical Inspector, Plans Examiner, Uniform Fire Code Inspector, IAPMO Plumbing Inspector are considered the equivalent of: one (1) commercial and one (1) residential certification in the respective disciplines.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license at time of application and must be maintained throughout employment.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of codes, ordinances and regulations relative to general construction/land use practices as demonstrated by experience and certifications relative to the assigned area(s) of expertise.
• Knowledge of various stages of construction to identify violations and defects.
• Skilled in communicating effectively both orally and in writing, sufficient to exchange or convey information and to give and receive work direction.
• Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with subordinates, county officials, contractors, engineers, architects, property owners and the general public.
• Skilled in using personal computers and related software applications.
• Ability to analyze and prepare a variety of legal documents and instruments.

BEHAVIORAL STANDARDS

All County employees are responsible for contributing to a safe and positive work environment, actively demonstrating the County values in their daily work and interactions:

• Respect: Appreciating and valuing customers, other County employees and County leadership by showing courtesy, friendliness and fairness. Communicating in a productive and professional manner.
• Accountability: Honoring and delivering on commitments by taking responsibility for personal actions and results; being a responsible steward of public resources and the trust County residents have placed in each of us.
• Integrity: Modelling transparent and ethical behavior and demonstrating it with honest and trustworthy behaviors and actions; leading by example and performing work to the highest standards.
• Innovation: Striving for excellence by actively pursuing opportunities for new and improved methods, procedures or technologies; fostering an environment of engagement and empowerment and embracing continuous improvement.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• The work environment is primarily inside, where the noise and temperature levels are moderate.

Total Compensation:

$70,886 - $98,767 Annually

Total compensation is an estimate based upon base compensation, median retirement fund contributions, and current employer-paid health and related benefit contribution rates (including medical, dental, life insurance, long term disability, and leave). The actual total will vary depending upon each employee's enrollment choices.

Please select the link below to view Spokane County Benefits:

• Benefits | Spokane County, WA

Why Work Here

Here are just a few reasons:

Community Impact: Many people find fulfillment in public service, knowing their work has a positive impact on the lives of Spokane County residents. Whether through public safety, infrastructure projects, or social services, employees can make a meaningful difference in residents' lives while contributing to the overall well-being and development of the community.

Diverse Job Opportunities: Spokane County employs a diverse workforce, offering positions in fields such as law enforcement, social services, animal control, parks and recreation, administration, and more. This diversity allows for many employment opportunities for individuals with different backgrounds and skill sets.

Job Stability and Benefits: Spokane County offers competitive salaries and benefits packages, including healthcare, vacation time, and retirement and pension plans that provide long-term financial security for employees.

Career Growth: There are various opportunities for career advancement within Spokane County. We invest in employee training and professional development, enhancing employees' skills and qualifications.

Work-Life Balance: We emphasize work-life balance, with reasonable work hours and policies that support employee well-being. If you’re seeking stability and a predictable schedule, you’re in the right place!

Inclusive Workplace Culture: Spokane County aims to foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion among its employees.

About the Area

Spokane boasts:
Natural Beauty: Spokane is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including rivers, lakes, and nearby mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and boating. From golf course to parks and trails along the Spokane River, there's something for everyone who enjoys the outdoors.
Affordable Living: Compared to many other cities on the West Coast, Spokane has a relatively low cost of living. Housing prices are more affordable, making it easier to buy a home or rent.
Four Seasons: Spokane experiences all four seasons distinctly. Summers are warm and dry, while winters bring snowfall, making it ideal for those who enjoy seasonal variety.
Cultural Scene: The city has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Events such as the Spokane Symphony and First Friday art walks contribute to the city's cultural richness.
Community Feel: Spokane is known for its friendly and welcoming community. It has a strong sense of local pride and community involvement.
Educational Opportunities: The city is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational and cultural opportunities. This includes Gonzaga University, Washington State University Spokane, Whitworth University, and Eastern Washington University.
Healthcare Facilities: Spokane boasts excellent healthcare facilities, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Deaconess Hospital, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care.
Family-Friendly: With good schools, safe neighborhoods, and numerous family-oriented activities, Spokane is a great place to raise a family.
Central Location: Spokane's location in eastern Washington makes it a hub for travel throughout the Pacific Northwest. It's close to other major cities like Seattle and Portland, as well as outdoor destinations like national parks and recreation areas.
Overall, Spokane offers a balanced lifestyle with a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural amenities, and community spirit, making it a desirable place to live and work!

Benefits Snapshot

Click to learn more about our extensive benefits package.