Combination Building Inspector / Plans Examiner
About The Position
The City of Burien is hiring a journey-level Combination Building Inspector / Plans Examiner for its Building Division. The position handles plan review and inspections for residential and less complex commercial projects, working independently on routine matters. Complex or non-standard projects are referred to the Senior Combination Building Inspector/Plans Examiner or the Building Official. The role combines office-based plan review and public service with field inspections. It includes reviewing plans and engineering calculations for code compliance; inspecting construction at various stages; issuing correction and violation notices; approving permits and certificates of occupancy for routine projects; providing building-code and City-procedure guidance; and performing permit-technician duties. The employee may also attend pre-construction meetings, assist Code Compliance Officers, and serve on employee committees. Work is split between the office and field. Field conditions may include construction noise, varied weather, rough terrain, ladders, scaffolding, heights, and open trenches. The job requires the ability to push, pull, lift, and carry 10 pounds. The position is open until filled, with the first application review scheduled for November 17, 2026.
Requirements
- An associate degree in building inspection technology, or equivalent continuing education and training, and three years of responsible building, construction, and/or plan review experience; alternatively, an equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the necessary knowledge and skills.
- Current ICC Certification as a Residential Building Inspector.
- Ability to earn ICC Residential Plans Examiner certification within the 12-month trial period.
- Ability to earn ICC/IAPMO Residential Plumbing and Mechanical Inspector certification, or ICC Residential Combination Inspector certification, within six months of hire.
- Valid Washington driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
- Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
- Ability to push, pull, lift, and carry 10 pounds.
Nice To Haves
- Fluency in Spanish and/or Vietnamese.
- An engineering background.
Responsibilities
- Review plans for compliance with building, plumbing, mechanical, energy conservation, and accessibility codes.
- Inspect residential and commercial construction at various stages to verify the work matches City-approved documents.
- Issue notices of correction and violations.
- Approve permits and certificates of occupancy for routine projects.
- Provide contractors, developers, architects, engineers, and the public with building-code guidance and information on City procedures.
- Answer public inquiries, check permit applications for completeness, route blueprints, and issue permits.
- Attend pre-construction meetings.
- Assist Code Compliance Officers.
- Serve on employee committees.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
