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Code Enforcement Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

City Prosecutor

Federal Way, WA · On-site

$108.37K - $137.26K/yr

... or code enforcement. Charge criminal cases; review and prepare documents and cases and review probable cause; attempt to resolve cases without necessity of trial if appropriate; perform jury and ...

Lateral Firefighter-EMT

Bremerton, WA

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Performs fire and complaint investigations, inspections and code enforcement work. Participates in fire prevention, disaster preparedness, community and general department activities. Performs ...

The department is responsible for the County road and levee systems, sewer systems, airports, ferries, building permits, environmental review, sustainability, community planning, and code enforcement ...

Environmental Biologist 3

Tacoma, WA · On-site +1

$51.92 - $66.91/hr

The department is responsible for the County road and levee systems, sewer systems, airports, ferries, building permits, environmental review, sustainability, community planning, and code enforcement ...

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Code Enforcement information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$32.4K

$68.2K

$107K

How much do code enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for code enforcement in Seattle, WA is $68,240.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Code Enforcement Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Code Enforcement Officer, you need a solid understanding of local codes and ordinances, investigative techniques, and often a background in public administration or criminal justice. Familiarity with inspection software, record management systems, and sometimes certification such as the ICC (International Code Council) certification is typical. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for interacting with the public and resolving disputes. These abilities are crucial for ensuring community safety, upholding local standards, and maintaining positive relationships with residents.

What are some common challenges faced by code enforcement officers in their daily work?

Code enforcement officers frequently encounter challenges such as handling confrontational situations with property owners, staying updated with evolving local codes and ordinances, and managing a high volume of cases efficiently. They often need to balance regulatory compliance with diplomacy, as building positive relationships with the community is crucial. Additionally, officers must document violations thoroughly and collaborate with other municipal departments, such as zoning, fire, or public health, to resolve complex issues.

What are code enforcement officers and what do they do?

Code enforcement officers are professionals responsible for ensuring that local laws, ordinances, and regulations related to building codes, zoning, property maintenance, and public safety are followed. They inspect properties, investigate complaints, and work with property owners to resolve violations. Their goal is to maintain community standards, protect public health and safety, and improve neighborhood quality. Code enforcement officers may issue warnings, citations, or even initiate legal proceedings if violations are not corrected.

What is the difference between Code Enforcement vs Building Inspector?

AspectCode EnforcementBuilding Inspector
Required credentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles may need certifications in code enforcement or related fieldsRequires a high school diploma; certifications in building inspection or related areas are common
Work environmentFieldwork and office work; inspecting properties for code violationsPrimarily fieldwork; inspecting new and existing structures for compliance
Employer and industry usageMunicipalities, counties, government agenciesMunicipalities, counties, government agencies
Common search and comparison intentUnderstanding roles related to code compliance and enforcementUnderstanding building inspection processes and requirements

Both roles are essential in ensuring safety and compliance within communities. While Code Enforcement focuses on violations of codes and ordinances, Building Inspectors primarily verify that construction and renovations meet building codes. They often work together but have distinct responsibilities within the regulatory framework.

What are the most commonly searched types of Code Enforcement jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Code Enforcement jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Code Enforcement jobs in Seattle, WA? For Code Enforcement jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Code Enforcement jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Code Enforcement job openings:
Infographic showing various Code Enforcement job openings in Seattle, WA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 68% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,240 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

$108.37K - $137.26K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Salary : $108,372.00 - $137,256.00 Annually
Location : 33325 8th Ave S, Federal Way
Job Type: Regular Full-Time
Job Number: 2600466
Department: Law
Division: Criminal
Opening Date: 04/29/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Basic Function
Under the direction of the City Attorney and Chief Prosecutor, serve as prosecuting attorney for the City in jury and bench trials and other court and administrative hearings.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Serve as prosecuting attorney in criminal misdemeanor cases filed by the City; represent the City in bench and jury trials, pre-trials, arraignments, sentencing, traffic violations and other misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases; represent the City in civil matters such as forfeitures or code enforcement.
Charge criminal cases; review and prepare documents and cases and review probable cause; attempt to resolve cases without necessity of trial if appropriate; perform jury and bench trials, including preparation of jury instructions and preparation of motions related to cases.
Communicate with witnesses, police, other attorneys and defendants as needed; communicate and coordinate with court administrative personnel, City departments, public defenders and other personnel in matters related to criminal cases.
Participate in pre-trial conferences and in-court hearings to potentially resolve cases prior to trial; negotiate, review cases, make offers, investigate and extend offers; place dispositions on the court record.
Organize case information and analyze pertinent case facts and evidence; research legal precedent and develop arguments as appropriate; prepare and supervise the maintenance of criminal case records and other legal documents required to proceed with criminal cases.
Analyze and evaluate the validity of each criminal charge; perform a variety of case preparation duties such as reviewing and signing citations and long form complaints; plea bargaining, negotiating and interviewing witnesses.
Represent the City in court on contested hearings and other infractions as required.
Perform appellate work as needed; research and prepare briefings and present oral arguments in court hearings as required.
Perform legal research and prepare opinions related to various legal issues; prepare and draft ordinances and resolutions, contracts and other legal documents and instruments.
Communicate with and train various City departments regarding the legality of documents and instruments and the prosecution of criminal cases.
Serve as prosecuting attorney for the City in jury and bench trials and other court and administrative hearings regarding infraction, misdemeanor, and gross misdemeanor cases, and related civil matters.
Maintain regular, reliable and punctual attendance.
Education and Experience
Education and Experience:
Requires Law degree with admission to the Washington State Bar Association in good standing. Entry-level attorneys are encouraged to apply. Rule 9 opportunities may be explored on a per-case basis.
Licenses and Other Requirements:
  • Member of the Washington State Bar Association
  • Valid Washington driver's license

Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of:
  • City and State laws related to the prosecution of court cases.
  • Municipal Court rules and procedures.
  • Legal research methodology.
  • Justware, Lexis Nexis
  • Municipal government structure, operations and jurisdiction.
  • Criminal and civil court procedures and case decisions in Washington.
  • Case preparation and litigation techniques.
  • Principles of training and providing work direction.
  • Negotiation and trial techniques and skills.
  • Strong oral and written case presentation skills.
  • Organization and analysis of case facts and legal precedents.
  • Legality and preparation of various documents and instruments.
  • City organization, operations, policies and objectives.
  • Prosecution forms, office and court procedures.

Ability to:
  • Serve as prosecuting attorney for the City in jury and bench trials and other court and administrative hearings regarding misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases.
  • Analyze, evaluate, organize and prepare cases for trial, hearing or appeal.
  • Perform comprehensive and professional criminal legal services, including researching, drafting and writing briefs, opinions and ordinances.
  • Prepare and deliver oral presentation and arguments.
  • Analyze, organize and evaluate case facts and evidence.
  • Perform legal research and investigation.
  • Appear in court and administrative proceedings and represent the City's interests.
  • Render effective legal counsel and advice to City departments.
  • Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Read, interpret, apply and explain codes, rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
  • Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy.
  • Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.
  • Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action.
  • Meet schedules and timelines.
  • Work independently with little direction.
  • Physically perform the essential functions of the job.
  • Demonstrated ability to positively and effectively interact with diverse individuals to accomplish a common goal.

Environmental Conditions/Physical Effort:
Work is performed primarily in an office environment and in meeting and court rooms. Employee may be exposed to noise from basic office equipment operation. Performs sedentary work exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Travel to attend meetings and hearings is required.
The City of Federal Way offers a complete benefits package to regular status full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
Regular status part-time employees, receive benefits on a pro-rated basis.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page.