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City Inspector Jobs in Federal Way, WA (NOW HIRING)

Come Join the City of Bellevue. Please fill out your application as fully as possible. The City ... Job Summary Are you a building inspector with at least 2 years of experience or have 5 or more ...

Building Inspector

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$110K - $121K/yr

Bellevue City Hall, 450 110th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA Job Type: Regular Job Number: 26-00176 Department: Development Services Division: DS Building Inspection Opening Date: 06/12/2026 Closing Date: 6/29 ...

Senior Building Inspector

Issaquah, WA · On-site

$88K - $116K/yr

EQUITY STATEMENT The City of Issaquah strives to be a diverse workforce that is representative of ... This includes inspection of structural elements, plumbing, mechanical, insulation, fire-rated ...

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City Inspector information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$27.4K

$61.4K

$110.6K

How much do city inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for city inspector in Federal Way, WA is $61,353.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,000.00 and $70,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a City Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a City Inspector, you need a solid understanding of building codes, zoning regulations, and inspection procedures, often supported by relevant certifications or a background in construction or engineering. Familiarity with inspection management software, digital reporting tools, and state or municipal permit systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help City Inspectors effectively assess compliance and interact with property owners. These competencies ensure public safety, regulatory adherence, and the efficient handling of city development projects.

How hard is it to become an inspector?

Becoming a city inspector typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by relevant work experience or technical training. Many inspectors also need to obtain state or local certifications, which involve passing exams and sometimes completing continuing education. The difficulty depends on meeting these requirements and gaining experience in the specific inspection field.

What are city inspectors looking for?

City inspectors evaluate buildings, infrastructure, and public spaces to ensure compliance with safety, building codes, zoning laws, and regulations. They check for issues such as structural integrity, proper permits, sanitation, and code violations, often using inspection tools and documentation to assess conditions. Their goal is to promote safety, health, and adherence to legal standards in the community.

What type of inspector makes the most money?

Among inspectors, construction and building inspectors tend to earn the highest salaries due to the complexity of projects and required certifications. Senior or specialized inspectors, such as those in industrial or environmental fields, often earn more than general city inspectors. Experience, certifications, and the size of the jurisdiction can also influence earning potential.

What are some common challenges City Inspectors face when conducting site inspections?

City Inspectors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex regulations, addressing non-compliance issues diplomatically, and managing a high volume of inspections within tight deadlines. They may face resistance from property owners or contractors and must balance enforcing codes with providing helpful guidance. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring public safety.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A City Inspector typically earns less than $10,000 a month without a degree, as salaries usually depend on experience, location, and certifications. High-paying roles that can reach or exceed this income level without a degree are rare and often involve entrepreneurship, sales, or specialized trades with significant experience or licensing. Most jobs paying $10,000 monthly without a degree require skills, certifications, or extensive experience in fields like real estate, sales, or business ownership.

What is the difference between City Inspector vs Building Inspector?

AspectCity InspectorBuilding Inspector
CertificationsTypically requires state or local licensing, building codes knowledgeRequires similar certifications, often including ICC or state-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentInspects city infrastructure, public projects, and complianceFocuses on building safety, construction sites, and code adherence
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal government, public sectorMunicipalities, private firms, construction industry

Both City Inspectors and Building Inspectors work within municipal environments and require similar certifications. While City Inspectors often oversee broader city infrastructure and public projects, Building Inspectors focus specifically on construction sites and building safety compliance. Their roles are complementary, with overlapping skills and certifications, but differ in scope and focus.

What does a City Inspector do?

A City Inspector is responsible for ensuring that buildings and properties within a city comply with local codes, ordinances, and safety regulations. They conduct inspections of construction sites, residential and commercial properties, and public spaces to check for compliance with zoning laws, building codes, and health and safety standards. City Inspectors may issue citations or stop-work orders if violations are found and often work closely with contractors, property owners, and city officials to resolve any issues. Their work helps maintain public safety and the integrity of urban development.
What are popular job titles related to City Inspector jobs in Federal Way, WA? For City Inspector jobs in Federal Way, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Federal Way, WA are hiring for City Inspector jobs? Cities near Federal Way, WA with the most City Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various City Inspector job openings in Federal Way, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 12% Full Time, 77% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,353 per year, or $29.5 per hour.
Building Inspector

$110K - $121K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Come Join the City of Bellevue. Please fill out your application as fully as possible. The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only.

Do not submit resumes and cover letters. Read the "Hiring Process" section below to learn more. New hires typically receive between minimum and midpoint, however, we may go slightly higher based on experience, internal equity and market.

Job Summary Are you a building inspector with at least 2 years of experience or have 5 or more years' experience in the construction trades. If so, we may have an opportunity for you. At The City of Bellevue, you'll be part of a team committed to providing exceptional customer service, upholding the public's interest, and being a part of our community vision.

Our people bring unique skills and qualities to the table, embrace the values of honesty, accountability, commitment to service, and take pride in the work they do. You'll work in an environment where being innovative, collaborative, and future-focused are the status quo. Bellevue welcomes the world.

Our diversity is our strength. It makes The City of Bellevue an exciting place to work, live, and explore. Our Development Services Department is looking for an Building Inspector to join our team.

You'll be responsible for inspecting residential and commercial projects for the applicable construction codes while providing exceptional customer service to building owners, occupants, contractors, and the general public. Individuals with International Building and Residential Code inspection experience are encouraged to apply. Candidates meeting the requirements for additional experience and certifications may be eligible to be placed in a higher job classification and salary range.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Inspects residential and commercial construction for adherence to approved plans and specifications and for compliance with City building codes and regulations. Prepares and issues correction notices, stop work orders, and other official notifications to appropriate individuals or organizations. Coordinates and assists with issuance of temporary certificates of occupancy (TCO) and permanent certificates of occupancy (CO).

Communicates with internal and external customers regarding assigned projects or general inquiries related to building codes and construction issues. Understands and recognizes issues to properly resolve public safety concerns involving construction projects. Maintains records of building and inspection activity and completes related reports.

Researches and assists in resolving problems and complaints regarding commercial and residential buildings, construction, and code compliance cases. Responds to technical and sensitive building issues. Assists in resolving customer service issues, either personally, by telephone, or in writing and maintains records and documents of customer service issues and resolutions.

Meets with architects, developers, contractors, property owners, design professionals, engineers, other City departments, governmental agencies, and the public to resolve safety and other compliance problems. Coordinate between different disciplines and inspection teams. Attends meetings with internal and external customers regarding policies & procedures, addressing construction concerns, and contributing to administrative needs.

Performs other duties as assigned by the Review & Inspection Supervisor, Inspection Services Manager, or Building Official. Employee must operate a company vehicle to visit client sites or perform off-site services. Qualifications Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies Knowledge of and ability to accurately apply national, state, and local adopted codes and general construction codes.

Knowledge of general to complex construction practices Ability to effectively apply discretion and evaluate methods to meet applicable codes when encountering unique or challenging issues during construction. Ability to work well across a wide spectrum of customers and contractors. Ability to read and understand plans and design documents associated with single-family, or multi-family residential, or commercial construction.

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Skilled in operation of computer software and technology needed to perform primary duties. Education and Experience Requirements Primary Experience High school diploma or GED equivalent.

Two or more years' experience as an inspector for a jurisdiction, enforcement agency, or similar entity is preferred. Five or more years of relevant experience in construction trades. ICC/IAPMO Inspection certification is required.

(New hires must obtain certification within 12 months of start date.) Or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Valid driver's license required; regular driving is an essential function of the job. Secondary Experience: Five or more years' experience as a construction superintendent or foreman

Two or more years' experience in combination building, mechanical, plumbing inspection or clearing & grading inspection. ICC and/or equivalent ICBO, IAPMO inspection certifications preferred Supplemental Information Working Conditions & Physical Requirements The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work involves walking on smooth or uneven surfaces, climbing stairs or ladders, talking, hearing, using hands to handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. The employee may be required to push, pull, lift, and/or carry up to 40 pounds.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately quiet while in the office or moderately loud when in the field. Work may routinely require the employee to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and/or crawl. Other This is a full-time, union represented position represented by Teamsters Local 763 (206.441.0763)

The City decides placement within the salary range based on experience, qualifications, and other relevant factors. The applicant's input, if offered, will be considered prior to salary placement. HIRING PROCESS The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only.

Do not submit resumes and cover letters. To evaluate all candidates fairly and equitably, the City will make all applicants anonymous when we are screening the applications. We will redact information from our application such as your name, address, and other demographics.

To help us, please complete the online application form as fully as possible. Answer the Supplemental Questions when requested which can be found on the Questions tab of the Job posting. We do not accept resumes and cover letters during the anonymous application screening stage, unless otherwise stated in the job description.

Applicants advancing to the next stage may be required to provide a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and references. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT All candidates will be required to establish employment authorization and identity at the time of hire. The City is not able to sponsor work visas.

All positions require the completion of references checks, including at least one prior supervisor. Some positions may require completion of a criminal background check prior to start employment Some positions may require obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL), licensures, or additional certifications. At the City of Bellevue, you'll be part of a team committed to providing exceptional customer service, upholding the public interest and advancing the community vision.

The six essential and enduring principles that guide our individual actions, our interactions, and our decision making in the City of Bellevue organization is: Exceptional Public Service, Stewardship, Commitment to Employees, Integrity, Innovation, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. You'll work in an environment that is innovative, collaborative, future focused, and committed to excellence. Bellevue welcomes the world.

Our diversity is our strength. We embrace the future while respecting our past. It's what makes the City of Bellevue an exciting place to work, live, and explore.

Have we piqued your interest yet. Come join our team. The City of Bellevue supports workplace diversity.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status. Persons needing assistance with the application process may call the Human Resources Office, at 425-452-6838 or recruiting@bellevuewa.gov. If you are invited to participate in the selection process and need ADA accommodations, please notify HR before you are scheduled for an interview or testing

The City of Bellevue participates in the E-Verify program. Learn more about the E-Verify program. https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/IER_RightToWorkPoster.pdf https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/everify/posters/IER_RighttoWorkPosterES.pdf For any technical difficulties with your application, please contact the NEOGOV support line at 855-524-5627

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