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City Inspector Jobs in Tacoma, WA (NOW HIRING)

Building Inspector

Lakewood, WA · On-site

$7.3K - $9.1K/mo

Work with other departmental staff to improve the effectiveness of the City's inspection methods and residential building permits submittal. Maintain inspection related records and files, and prepare ...

Senior Civil Engineer

Federal Way, WA · On-site

$119K - $151K/yr

Perform field checks, verifications and site visits to inspect work in progress; work with contractor and City inspectors to assure projects are completed in compliance with applicable codes, plans ...

OSP Inspector

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$94.56/hr

Maintain accurate inspection reports and construction documentation ... Communicate regularly with state, county, city, and other agencies to gather information on planned ...

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Local City Driver

Fife, WA · On-site

$34 - $39.05/hr

Conducts inspections by following established safety and quality control procedures. * Retains and maintains records, forms, and load-related paperwork. * Serves as the first point-of-contact for ...

Local City Driver

Kent, WA · On-site

$34 - $39.05/hr

Conducts inspections by following established safety and quality control procedures. * Retains and maintains records, forms, and load-related paperwork. * Serves as the first point-of-contact for ...

Project Engineer

Renton, WA · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Inspection reporting filing and follow-up including City inspection logs, Architectural. * Construction Administration bi-monthly inspection reports, MEP consultant Construction. * Administration ...

City Delivery Dispatcher

Lakewood, WA · On-site

$17.13 - $23.50/hr

To coordinate and oversee city route schedule, functions, and delivery specialists of "hub" store ... inspections are completed thoroughly and accurately. Ensure daily mileage is logged into asset ...

Project Engineer

Renton, WA · On-site

$60 - $65/hr

Inspection reporting filing and follow-up including City inspection logs, Architectural. * Construction Administration bi-monthly inspection reports, MEP consultant Construction. * Administration ...

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Permit Tech

Lakewood, WA · On-site

$5.7K - $7.2K/mo

... inspections, maintain accurate permit records, and help customers navigate online permitting tools and City processes. Under the direction of the Permit Center Supervisor, the position also works ...

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City Inspector information

See Tacoma, WA salary details

$26.3K

$59K

$106.3K

How much do city inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for city inspector in Tacoma, WA is $59,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,300.00 and $68,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

How much do city inspectors make?

City inspectors typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. In larger cities, salaries can be higher, and inspectors often work full-time with some requiring specialized training or licensing.

How to become a city inspector in California?

To become a city inspector in California, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant work experience, and may be required to obtain specific certifications such as building or plumbing inspector licenses. The process often involves passing written exams and background checks, and inspectors usually work for local government agencies overseeing building codes, safety standards, and zoning regulations.

What are popular job titles related to City Inspector jobs in Tacoma, WA?

For City Inspector jobs in Tacoma, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching City Inspector jobs in Tacoma, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for City Inspector jobs in Tacoma, WA are:

What cities near Tacoma, WA are hiring for City Inspector jobs?

Cities near Tacoma, WA with the most City Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various City Inspector job openings in Tacoma, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,001 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Building Inspector

City of Lakewood (WA)

Lakewood, WA • On-site

$7.3K - $9.1K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


City Of Lakewood (Colorado) rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

JOB SUMMARY Under the supervision of the Building Official, perform inspections of commercial and residential projects for compliance with adopted codes and ordinances and verify that site construction work is in accordance with the approved project plans and documents. This is an AFSCME represented position. This recruitment is open until filled.

The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible for best consideration. ESSENTIAL DUTIES Perform building, mechanical, and plumbing inspections of commercial/residential buildings; inspect construction sites, installation methods, and materials during construction and upon completion of commercial, industrial, multi-family and single-family structures to assure compliance with standards, codes, and regulations.

Inspect buildings at various stages of construction and upon completion for compliance to approved plans and the International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), state amendments, local ordinances, and other applicable requirements. Provide assistance to on-site construction personnel, including interpretation and explanation of applicable codes. Provide backup plan review for construction plans of various assigned projects to assure compliance with applicable building codes.

Answer questions by telephone, in person, or in the field regarding construction, plumbing, structural, insulation, plan requirements, and requirements for persons with disabilities; apply, explain, and enforce code requirements and ordinances. Work with other departmental staff to improve the effectiveness of the City's inspection methods and residential building permits submittal. Maintain inspection related records and files, and prepare related reports.

Operate computer equipment to maintain inspection records and generate notices and other written materials. Monitor construction projects to detect conditions that may require changes in construction sequence; inform builders of code violations and necessary action for compliance. Operate related equipment, including calculator, levels, gauges, light meters, rules, and tapes.

Investigate and resolve complaints concerning alleged violations of City ordinances; assist City departments with inspection concerns and related information as necessary. Attend seminars and meetings and maintain current knowledge of code requirements and related City ordinances. Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS Must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Any combination of education and experience equivalent to at least two (2) years of relevant post-secondary education AND three (3) years of experience in building inspection AND four (4) years of experience in general construction. LICENSES AND OR CERTIFICATION ICC building inspector certification is required.

ICC Residential Plumbing P1 and Mechanical M1 certifications required within 24 months of hire. A valid Washington State driver's license is required by date of hire. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), International Mechanical Code (IMC), Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), and applicable federal, state and local laws, codes, ordinances, and regulations.

Field inspection methods, procedures, and techniques. Construction procedures and methods. Mechanical and plumbing plans examination and review procedures.

Report preparation and records maintenance procedures. Technical knowledge of specific systems inspected. Health and safety regulations.

ABILITY TO: Perform field inspections of facilities under construction or alteration. Ensure compliance with state, local codes, ordinances, and applicable building codes. Work and communicate effectively with the public, contractors, developers, and co-workers.

Resolve conflicts in a positive manner. Read and interpret codes, building plans, and specifications. Work independently with little direction.

Organize and maintain accurate records. Prepare clear and concise correspondence and written materials. Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action.

Add, subtract, multiply, and divide quickly and accurately. Observe legal and defensive driving practices. Assure proper inspection of building codes and ordinances to protect lives and property.


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