Local Building Inspector - Part time

Westford; Westford (MA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Westford is seeking a Local Building Inspector to enforce the Massachusetts State Building Code, review plans, and conduct field inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial properties. The role requires knowledge of local zoning bylaws and energy code, plus a CSL license and an associates degree or equivalent construction experience.

The inspector will issue permits, interpret codes for contractors and residents, and manage the permit process from start to finish, ensuring public

Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of Massachusetts building codes, regulations, and construction practices.
• Knowledge of local zoning bylaws and Massachusetts energy code requirements.
• Experience reviewing construction plans and permit applications.
• Knowledge of inspection techniques and code enforcement procedures.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret technical plans, specifications, and applicable laws and regulations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with contractors, architects, engineers, municipal staff, and the general public.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare inspection reports.
• Proficiency with standard computer software and electronic permitting systems.

Responsibilities

• Perform inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial properties to ensure compliance with state and local building codes.
• Review and evaluate building plans, construction documents, and permit applications for code compliance.
• Issue building permits, certificates, and approvals as authorized.
• Conduct inspections throughout all phases of construction, renovation, and occupancy.
• Enforce building regulations by issuing notices, violation notices, stop-work orders, and other actions as necessary.
• Manage the building permit process from application through final inspection and project completion.
• Maintain accurate records of permits, inspections, enforcement actions, and correspondence.

Skills

Massachusetts building codes

Code enforcement

Inspections

Plan review

Communication

Education

Massachusetts CSL license

Associates degree in construction management or related field

Tools

MS Office

Electronic permitting systems

Job description

Job Opportunities

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Land Use - Building/Conservation/Planning/Zoning

Position Title:Local Building Inspector
Hours Per Week:19.75 hrs./week
Current Rev. Date:September 2026

Reports To:Building Commissioner
Department:Building Department
Location:Town Hall

Band/Step/Wage:$35.00 - $45.00 per hour ( depending on qualifications and experience)
Approximate Start Date:As soon as possible
PositionPosted: 10/01/2026. Please reference requisition #27-597-BLDG. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. The position will remain open until filled.

Position Summary:The Local Building Inspector position assists with administering and enforcing the Massachusetts State Building Code, local zoning bylaws, and applicable municipal regulations. Performs inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial properties to ensure compliance with state and local building codes and safety standards. Reviews permit applications and construction plans, conducts field inspections, and works collaboratively with property owners, contractors, architects, and other municipal departments to promote safe construction practices and protect the health, safety, and welfare of the community.

• Periodic Inspections in accordance with 780 CMR Table 110.
• Inspect residential, commercial, industrial, and licensed premises for compliance with the Massachusetts State Building Code, local zoning bylaws, and other applicable regulations.
• Review and evaluate building plans, construction documents, and permit applications for code compliance.
• Issue building permits, certificates, and approvals as authorized.
• Conduct inspections throughout all phases of construction, renovation, and occupancy.
• Enforce building regulations by issuing compliance notices, violation notices, stop-work orders, and other enforcement actions as necessary.
• Manage the building permit process from application through final inspection and project completion.
• Maintain accurate records of permits, inspections, enforcement actions, correspondence, and departmental files.
• Provide technical guidance and code interpretations to contractors, architects, engineers, property owners, and the public.
• Collaborate with contractors, architects, engineers, municipal departments, and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Investigate complaints related to building code violations and unsafe conditions.
• Promote public safety through consistent enforcement of building regulations and identification of hazardous conditions.
• Other related duties as required.

Required Experience, Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of Massachusetts building codes, regulations, and construction practices.
• Knowledge of local zoning bylaws and Massachusetts energy code requirements.
• Experience reviewing construction plans and permit applications.
• Knowledge of inspection techniques and code enforcement procedures.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret technical plans, specifications, and applicable laws and regulations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with contractors, architects, engineers, municipal staff, and the general public.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare inspection reports.
• Proficiency with standard computer software and electronic permitting systems.

Education, Training, Special Licensure/Certification Requirements:In accordance with the provisions of M G.L. c 143 Section 3 requires all individuals who serve as municipal building code enforcement officials to be certified in accordance with regulations promulgated by the Board of Building Regulations and Standards. Obtaining certification as a "local inspector" within 18 months of hire is a requirement of the position.

Five (5) or more years of construction experience or an associate degree in construction management, building technology, engineering, architecture, or a closely related field is required. Possession of a valid Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License (CSL). Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.

Residency within a 45-minute travel radius of Westford is preferred.

Contacts (boards & committees, vendors, general public, etc.):Extensive contact with developers, attorneys, town counsel, engineers, hydrologists, contractors, project managers, consultants, town staff, and residents, town officials and staff, residents, regulatory agencies, and utility companies, including MassDEP, EPA, and MassDOT.

Supervisory Responsibility (Include Positions Supervised):N/A

Responsibility for Operating Budget: N/A

Primary Physical Requirements: *Use F for Frequently, O for Occasionally, R for Rarely, N for Never

Primary Physical Requirements
Other Physical Considerations

LIFT up to 10 lbs.: F
Twisting: O

LIFT 10 to 50 lbs.: O
Bending: O

LIFT over 50 lbs.: R
Squatting: O

CARRY up to 10 lbs.: F
Kneeling: O

CARRY 10 to 50 lbs.: O
Crouching: O

CARRY over 50 lbs.: R
PUSH/PULL:F

DURING A 7.5 HOUR DAY, EMPLOYEE IS REQUIRED TO:
WORK SURFACE(S):

Consecutive Hours Total Hours
Desktop/Computer Table

Sit: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Stationary & Rolling Office Chair

Stand: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Carpeted & Linoleum Floored Offices

Walk: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Stairs and Elevators

Summary of Occupational Exposures: Must be able to operate a motor vehicle and routinely use a computer, laptop, tablet, smartphone, telephone, and other standard office equipment. The position requires the ability to view a computer screen for extended periods and communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and through electronic communications. Must possess sufficient vision, hearing, speech, manual dexterity, and coordination to perform the essential functions of the position. Duties require the ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, grasp, climb stairs, balance, kneel, crouch, traverse uneven terrain, and occasionally lift and carry plans, equipment, and materials consistent with the physical requirements of the position.

Work involves exposure to varying weather conditions, traffic, construction activities, dust, dirt, noise, vibration, uneven terrain, insects, animals, and other environmental conditions encountered during field inspections, surveying, and construction oversight. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required when performing field work or visiting active construction sites.

The physical demands described above are representative of those necessary to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Additional duties may be assigned as operational needs require.

Note: The purpose of this job description is to provide an outline of the more significant work elements of the position and to organize and present the information in a standard manner. It is not intended to describe all the elements of the work that may be performed by every individual in this classification, nor should it serve as the sole basis for Human Resource decisions and actions.