Inspector; Mechanical

Position Overview

Applications will be accepted from:
All Persons Interested

Service Line:
Houston Permitting Center

Reporting

Location:

1002 Washington Ave 77002

Workdays &

Hours:

Monday – Friday, 7:00am – 5:00pm, Subject to change

Houston Public Works is the largest and most diverse public works organization in the country, serving more than 2.3 million residents every day. Our department is responsible for delivering essential services that keep Houston moving and growing—from maintaining streets and stormwater systems to providing clean drinking water and safe wastewater treatment. We also oversee permitting and regulate both public and private construction to ensure our city is built with safety, sustainability, and resilience in mind.

We are driven by a shared commitment to service, innovation, and excellence—working together to build a stronger Houston for today and for generations to come.

The Mechanical Inspector supports the City of Houston’s commitment to safety and code compliance by inspecting HVAC, refrigeration, and other mechanical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial developments. This role ensures all mechanical installations meet local ordinances and mechanical codes, helping to protect public health and support responsible construction. Through field inspections, plan reviews, and public engagement, the Mechanical Inspector plays a key role in upholding Houston’s standards for safe and sustainable development.

• Conduct field inspections of mechanical systems (e.g., heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration) to ensure compliance with approved plans, specifications, codes, and ordinances.
• Investigate reports of unpermitted mechanical work or unsafe installations; issue citations or elevate enforcement action as appropriate.
• Serve correction notices and recommend solutions based on current mechanical codes and best practices.
• Review mechanical plans, specifications, and construction documents to support inspections and permitting.
• Respond to inquiries from contractors, technical professionals, property owners, and businesses regarding mechanical system requirements and code interpretations.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records, reports, and inspection documentation in accordance with departmental procedures.
• Collaborate with other city departments and regulatory agencies to support code compliance and resolve technical issues.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

The position routinely requires lifting of moderately heavy items, such as typewriters or records boxes (up to 40 pounds) and/or very long periods of walking on rough surfaces on a routine basis. There are routine discomforts from exposure to moderate heat, cold, moisture/wetness and unpleasant air conditions. The position may involve routine exposure to soiled materials and light chemical substances such as cleaning solutions.

Requires the ability to make simple gross motor responses within large tolerances.

Requires a high school diploma/GED, and up to 18 months of education or training in the area of inspection to be performed.

Two years of journey level or skilled experience related to the area of inspection to be performed are required.

May require a valid Texas driver’s license and compliance with the City of Houston’s policy on driving (AP 2-2).

ICBO Inspector's Certificate (Preferred to be obtained within 11 months of employment).

Retention:
Eligible for award of up to $3,000, upon completion of 24 months of employment.

Relocation:
Eligible for an incentive of up to $1,000, upon submission of qualifying receipts.

Certification:
Eligible for annual incentives of up to $3,900, upon acquisition of eligible certification.

Step Increase:
Salary adjusted by 3.1% upon start of 3rd year of employment, and again by 2.8% upon start of 5th year of employment.

• A valid ICBO Inspector’s Certificate.
• Code Enforcement experience.
• Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such people possess the…