Inspector I - Public Development - Permits

Office of the County Engineer; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 52,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

Dental insurance

Wellness

Professional development

Flexible spending accounts

457 deferred compensation

Retirement pension

Transit assistance

Disability insurance

Life insurance

PSLF eligibility

Job summary

Harris County's Development Services & Permits Division seeks a field inspector to oversee construction compliance and permit-related activities. Outdoor work in all weather, field observations, and coordination with plans are required.

The role emphasizes reading drawings, strong written/verbal communication, and organization. A high school diploma or higher is required, with 2 years in engineering-related fields; a Bachelor's/Associate's degree is preferred. Full-time with benefits.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in engineering-related design, construction, real property, or related field.
• Bachelor's or Associate's Degree with major coursework in Engineering, Architecture, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Inspects construction and pursues compliance regarding plans and specifications.
• Observes all phases of construction activities in the field.
• Operates vehicle and ensures routine maintenance.
• Performs disaster recovery support during emergencies.
• Supports emergency response duties during hurricanes, floods, etc.

Skills

Strong written and verbal comms

Organizational skills

Microsoft Office proficiency

Read construction drawings

Regulatory knowledge

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's or Associate's Degree in Engineering/Architecture

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position Overview:

The Development Services & Permits Division facilitates safe and responsible development, construction, and occupancy of buildings and properties in our community. In 2023, the division issued over 57,000 permits with a construction value of $11.15B. In addition, the division conducted over 41,000 inspections and almost 85,000 plan reviews. We strive to provide prompt, courteous service to our customers while ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Our goal is to promote public safety, protect the environment, and support economic growth through permit issuance and inspections. We are committed to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in all aspects of our operations.

Position Description

Position Overview:

The Development Services & Permits Division facilitates safe and responsible development, construction, and occupancy of buildings and properties in our community. In 2023, the division issued over 57,000 permits with a construction value of $11.15B. In addition, the division conducted over 41,000 inspections and almost 85,000 plan reviews. We strive to provide prompt, courteous service to our customers while ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Our goal is to promote public safety, protect the environment, and support economic growth through permit issuance and inspections. We are committed to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in all aspects of our operations.

Inspects construction and pursues compliance regarding plans and specifications set by the rules and regulations of Harris County as administered by the Permits Group.

Job Duties

• Works outdoors in all weather conditions and varying ground surfaces.
• Observes all phases of construction activities in the field.
• Climbs in and out of storm sewer manholes and inlets as needed.
• Walks and stands for extended periods of time.
• Ensures proper operation and routine maintenance of assigned vehicle.
• Performs disaster recovery support tasks as assigned during emergency events.
• Supports additional community emergency response duties during hurricanes, floods, or other incidents.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Responsibilities may evolve and are not limited to the list above.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx

If you need special services or accommodations, please call [phone] or email [e-mail]

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• A high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent is required.
• A minimum of two (2) years of experience/background in engineering-related design, construction, real property, or a closely related field.

Or,

• A Bachelor's or Associate's Degree from an accredited university with major coursework in Engineering, Architecture, or other closely related field.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs)

• Strong written and verbal communication skills to maintain records, manage files, and interact effectively with the public.
• Solid organizational skills with the ability to multitask and maintain attention to detail.
• Basic computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office programs; ability to learn department-supported applications quickly after hire.
• Ability to read construction drawings and topographical maps.
• Knowledge of regulatory agencies and their impact on architecture and engineering planning.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment and prepare clear, professional business correspondence.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license (Texas required upon hire) and a good driving record.
• Must provide and maintain proof of automobile liability insurance upon employment.

Preferences

Education

• Bachelor's or Associate's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Engineering, Architecture, or other closely related field.

Experience

• Experience in roles requiring the understanding and implementation of rules and regulations.
• Construction experience in field or office settings.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Previous government employment, particularly in areas involving regulatory administration.
• Intermediate or higher-level knowledge of construction techniques or engineering design.
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and/or Vietnamese (preferred).

General Information

Position Type, and Typical Hours of Work:
Full-Time | Regular | 40 hours per week.
Subject to early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays at times, depending upon the project or workload.

Salary: Commensurate experience, based on 26 pay periods.

Physical Demands And Environmental Exposure

Ability to work for extended periods in hot, cold, or inclement weather. Ability to lift maps, plans, and specifications related to the inspection process. Ability to stoop or crouch during the inspection process as necessary.

Featured Benefits

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance.
• Wellness.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• 457 deferred compensation plans.
• Retirement pension (TCDRS).
• Transportation assistance (Metro Ride Sponsor Program).
• Disability and life insurance.
• Harris County is a Qualified Employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.

Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.