Building Inspector

This recruitment closes on March 22, 2026 at 11:59 pm.

The City of Kennewick will provide excellent public service and ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community and one another through the empowerment of each employee. We value integrity, inclusiveness, stewardship and communication. We are accountable to our community for innovative and collaborative efforts that anticipate needs, leverage resources and deliver solutions.

We expect our employees to ensure compliance with all applicable safety practices and policies, including those established by OSHA/DOSH regulations and by the City’s Accident Prevention Plan. This includes but is not limited to actively identifying and correcting potential hazards that may affect employee and public safety, including those identified by co‑workers. Leading by example to promote a positive culture of workplace safety through everyday action;

emphasizing safe completion of work throughout all aspects of developing and carrying out work plans.

Under the supervision of the Building Official, performs inspections of commercial and residential construction and provides information and advice to contractors to ensure compliance with the International Building Codes and City standards. Responsible for inspections of plumbing installations, complex inspections, providing technical assistance as needed.

The following list reflects the essential job duties and responsibilities of this classification, but should not be considered all-inclusive. The incumbent will be expected to perform other related duties as assigned.

• Inspects commercial and residential construction projects in all phases of construction. These inspections, of all structural and architectural systems, assure that all items are in compliance with all applicable building, plumbing and mechanical codes and state energy codes. Assists the general public and contractors with alternative methods to meet the intent of applicable codes.
• Records/logs all inspections conducted and any subsequent corrections noted.
• Issues building permits, including determining amount of fees and if appropriate information has been received.
• Provides assistance to architects, engineers, general contractors and the public with interpretation of applicable codes. Determines whether alternative methods of construction comply with code requirements.
• Reviews information on new building products and their application and determines how it pertains to the I.B.C.
• Assists in compiling data and preparing required reports as needed.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least two (2) years of work experience in building inspection, construction, building trades, or a closely related field.
• A combination of relevant education and experience may be considered if it sufficiently demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Must possess, or be able to obtain within one (1) year of hire, the following certification:

• ICC Certified Residential or Commercial Building Inspector

Employees must also possess or be able to obtain the following certifications within the first two (2) years of hire, at a rate of at least one (1) certification per year:

• ICC Certified Plumbing Inspector
• ICC Certified Mechanical Inspector

• Must possess and maintain a valid State of Washington driver’s license.
• Must pass a criminal background investigation.
• Must maintain a level of mental and physical fitness required to perform the essential duties of the position.
• Must demonstrate effective communication skills, both oral and written.