Code Enforcement Officer I, II or III

buncombecounty; Asheville (NC); On-site; USD 38,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

8% 401(k) contribution

Pension

Health insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

Buncombe County is hiring Code Enforcement Officers at I, II or III level to inspect residential and commercial buildings, enforce state building codes, and guide the community in safe construction practices.

The role emphasizes certifications in electrical, building, mechanical and plumbing trades, plus a valid NC driver’s license and ongoing education. Benefits include a robust pension and health plan.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and trade certifications as required.
• Valid North Carolina driver’s license and annual continuing education.
• Standard Level I/II/III certification in electrical, building, mechanical and plumbing trades within specified timelines.

Responsibilities

• Inspect residential and commercial buildings for compliance with codes.
• Interpret and enforce building, electrical, mechanical and plumbing regulations.
• Respond to inquiries about planning, inspections and permits.
• Check plans and installations for code compliance.
• Inspect electrical, HVAC, plumbing systems and fixtures.
• Assess safety standards and fire compliance in buildings.

Skills

Electrical

Building trades

Mechanical

Plumbing

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Standard Level I certification in all four trades

Standard Level II certification in all four trades

Standard Level III certifications in all four trades

Job description

This job posting expires at 11:59PM on November 06, 2026. No applications can be submitted after 11:59PM on November 06, 2026.

Job Title

Code Enforcement Officer I, II or III

Department

Permits and Inspections

External Hiring Range

$27.76 - $41.95

Posted Internally and Externally

Buncombe County Permits & Inspections has a rare opening for a Code Enforcement Official. This is a community leadership position to provide citizens of Buncombe County a safe place to live, work and visit through construction projects and enforcement of state building codes.

Does that interest you? The Buncombe County Permits & Inspections Department issues permits and performs inspections on buildings within Buncombe County including certain Municipalities. If you have experience in the construction field, from building, electrical, plumbing or mechanical we would like for you to join our team. Inspection Certificates are issued by the NC Code Officials Qualifications Board through standard classes and testing. We offer a career ladder and each certificate obtained equals a pay increase and opportunities for advancements. We provide all training and invest in your success. This is a highly competitive field that provide leadership in the community for construction. If you would like to make a difference that touches all citizens and visitors to Buncombe County. We want you on our team helping us provide inspection services in our community.

Buncombe County has a very rich benefits package, including an 8% contribution to our 401(k), which is a free contribution, not a match. We also have a pension, excellent health insurance, free unlimited physical therapy, and generous paid time off plan including 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave that roll over each year, vacation accruals starting at 10 days per year and increasing with service, plus 2 front-loaded days of PTO and up to 3 additional days of PTO each year as a reward for joining our voluntary wellness program.

Purpose of the position

Code Enforcement Officers perform skilled inspection work on residential and commercial buildings to ensure compliance with established codes governing electrical, building, mechanical and plumbing trades.

Minimum Qualifications

• Code Enforcement Officer I: High school diploma or equivalent; one (1) year of experience in residential and/or commercial electrical, building, mechanical or plumbing construction work; or the equivalent in education and experience. License or Certification Required by Statute or Regulation: Possession of a valid driver's license issued by the State of North Carolina; Standard Level I certification in all four trades (electrical, building-includes energy conservation, mechanical and plumbing) are required within three (3) years of hire date. Annual continuing education as required.
• Code Enforcement Officer II: High school education or equivalent and Standard Level I certification in all four trades (electrical, building-includes energy conservation, mechanical, and plumbing). Required Certifications: Possession of a valid driver's license issued by the State of North Carolina. Standard Level II certification in all four trades (electrical, building-includes energy conservation, mechanical, and plumbing) within three (3) years of obtaining all four Level I Certifications. Annual continuing education as required.
• Code Enforcement Officer III: High school education or equivalent and Standard Level I and Level II certifications in all four trades (electrical, building-includes energy conservation, mechanical, and plumbing). Required Certifications: P ossession of a valid driver's license issued by the State of North Carolina. Standard Level III certifications in all four trades (electrical, building - includes energy conservation, mechanical and plumbing) within three (3) years of obtaining all Level II certifications. Annual continuing education as required.

Essential Functions of the position

• Inspect residential and commercial buildings in the process of construction, alteration or repair for compliance with building code requirements.
• Interpret, apply and enforce the rules and regulations relating to the construction, repair and maintenance of residential and commercial buildings. Review and study building code regulations to stay informed of changes in building codes and ordinances.
• Receive and answer inquiries concerning planning, inspections and permit procedures
• Check plans and specifications for proposed installation to ensure the codes and ordinances have been followed.
• Inspect electrical installations, heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing systems, and facilities for compliance with code requirements; check plans and specifications for the proper installation and connections of fixtures; investigate complaints concerning buildings that may not comply with electrical codes.
• Inspect new and existing residential and commercial buildings for compliance with safety standards and fire