Building Inspector

City of Foley; Foley (AL); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Foley is seeking a Building Inspector under the Chief Building Official to enforce adopted city building codes and related regulations, promoting public safety, health, and welfare through on-site inspections.

You will inspect construction and alterations, prepare reports, interpret codes for contractors and property owners, investigate complaints, coordinate with other departments, and educate the public on building requirements.

Qualifications

• Requires a high school diploma or GED.
• Associates or bachelor’s degree in construction/architecture/engineering or related field preferred.
• ICC inspections certifications obtainable within specified timelines.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct on-site inspections of construction projects to verify code compliance.
• Prepare inspection reports and maintain records; issue notices or corrections as needed.
• Provide interpretations of building codes to contractors, owners, and the public.
• Investigate complaints and recommend corrective actions; document findings.

Skills

On-site inspections

Code interpretation

Report writing

Communication skills

Detail oriented

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma

Related degree preferred

Tools

Inspection software

Permit tracking systems

Word processing

Email

Job description

Job Summary

Under the general supervision of the Chief Building Official, the Building Inspector is responsible for ensuring compliance with adopted City building codes, as well as other applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations. This position performs a variety of technical duties related to the enforcement of construction standards to promote public safety, health, and welfare.

Essential Functions

• Conduct thorough on-site inspections of construction, alteration, and repair projects at various stages to verify compliance with adopted building codes, and other relevant standards.
• Prepare accurate inspection reports, maintain detailed records of inspections, and issue appropriate notices, approvals, or corrections.
• Provide technical interpretations of building codes and ordinances to contractors, developers, property owners, and the public.
• Investigate complaints regarding potential code violations, unauthorized construction, or unsafe conditions; document findings and recommend corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate with other departments, agencies, and stakeholders to address code-related matters effectively.
• Promote public awareness of building codes and construction requirements through education, outreach, and clear communication.
• Perform related duties as assigned to support the goals of the Building Department.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED equivalent required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in construction management, architecture, engineering, building inspection technology, or a closely related field preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) to five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in building construction, plan review, construction inspection, or a related field (e.g., experience as a tradesperson, foreman, designer, or inspector).
• Possession of, or ability to obtain within twelve (12) months of employment, the Residential Building Inspector and Property Maintenance & Housing Inspector certifications from the ICC (International Code Council), and to obtain the Commercial Building Inspector Certification within eighteen (18) months of employment.
• Valid driver’s license and good driving record (required for on-site inspections).
• Ability to pass a background check, drug screening, and a physical examination.

Knowledge and Skills

• Current building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, energy, and life safety codes (e.g., International Building Code, International Residential Code, and local amendments).
• Principles and practices of building construction methods, materials, and techniques.
• Methods for identifying structural defects, code violations, and appropriate corrective measures.
• Safety standards and practices applicable to construction sites.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply complex building plans, blueprints, specifications, and technical documents.
• Strong attention to detail and observational skills to identify code compliance issues accurately.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to explain codes, issue notices, and interact effectively with contractors, property owners, and the public.
• Proficiency in enforcing regulations with tact, consistency, firmness, and professionalism.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, including the capacity to make sound judgments under pressure.
• Basic computer skills, including use of inspection software, permit tracking systems, word processing, and email.