1

Code Enforcement Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Planner

Kirkland, WA

$97K - $114K/yr

Supports the Code Enforcement Officer, including code analysis and site visits. Represents the department on interdepartmental service teams and technical groups. Collects and analyzes demographic ...

Law Enforcement Hours: 40 Hours/Week - Full Time Salary: Entry Level: $43.44/hour + Benefits ... When checking out, use the coupon code: PTPDFREE . Candidates have the option to purchase out-of ...

Law Enforcement Hours: 40 Hours/Week - Full Time Salary: Entry Level: $43.44/hour + Benefits ... When checking out, use the coupon code: PTPDFREE . Candidates have the option to purchase out-of ...

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 ...

Accounting Assistant 3

Tacoma, WA · On-site +1

$33.41 - $41.65/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 ...

DCD assists residents and businesses on development, long-range planning, environmental sustainability of projects and programs that impact the City, and code enforcement. It also oversees the City ...

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 ...

Equipment Technician

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$42.74 - $44.88/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 ...

Engineering Technician 2 Survey

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$34.27 - $43.15/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 ...

Equipment Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$41.27/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Code Enforcement information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$32.5K

$68.3K

$107K

How much do code enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for code enforcement in Seattle, WA is $68,280.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $78,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 does a code enforcement officer do?

A code enforcement officer ensures compliance with local building, zoning, and safety codes by inspecting properties, investigating violations, and issuing citations or notices for non-compliance. They often work with property owners, contractors, and city officials to resolve issues and may require knowledge of relevant regulations and documentation skills.

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 career paths in code enforcement?

Career paths in code enforcement typically start with entry-level inspector or officer roles, focusing on enforcing building codes, zoning laws, and property standards. Advancement can lead to supervisory positions, specialized roles such as environmental or fire code inspectors, or management positions like code enforcement supervisor or director, often requiring additional certifications and experience. Skills in communication, knowledge of local regulations, and familiarity with inspection tools are important for career progression.

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 degree do you need to be a code enforcement officer?

A code enforcement officer typically needs at least a high school diploma or equivalent; however, some positions prefer or require postsecondary education such as an associate's or bachelor's degree in fields like urban planning, public administration, or a related area. Relevant skills include knowledge of local codes and regulations, and some agencies may require certification or training in code enforcement procedures.

What's the difference between police and code enforcement?

Code enforcement officers focus on ensuring compliance with local ordinances related to property maintenance, zoning, and safety, while police officers enforce laws related to public safety, crime, and order. Code enforcement typically involves inspections and issuing citations for violations, whereas police handle criminal investigations and law enforcement actions.

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 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 job categories do people searching Code Enforcement jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Code Enforcement jobs in Seattle, WA 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,280 per year, or $32.8 per hour.
Traffic Permit Supervisor (Permit Technician Supervisor)

Traffic Permit Supervisor (Permit Technician Supervisor)

City of Seattle

Seattle, WA

$43.86 - $51.24/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


City Of Seattle rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 692 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Description Join us in shaping Seattle's streets. At the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), we don't just move people-we connect communities, build safer streets, and create a more sustainable city. With a bold vision for the future, we're tackling big challenges: making travel safer, cutting carbon emissions, and ensuring reliable, affordable transportation for everyone-no matter who they are or where they live.

Seattle is growing fast, and we're growing with it. Thanks to a historic voter-approved $1.55 billion investment in transportation in 2024, we're building sidewalks, fixing bridges, and improving transit connections to keep our city moving. We're a team of problem solvers, planners, engineers, communicators, and field crews-bringing purpose-driven work to life

Now, we need passionate, innovative talent like you. Let's build a Seattle that works for everyone-together. Position Overview: The Traffic Permit Supervisor (under the City's classification title of Permit Technician Supervisor) leads the SDOT Traffic Permitting section including managing, supervising, and coordinating the activities and operations of six (6) permit technician staff members in the Transportation Operations Division (TOD).

The position is responsible for budget development, permit revenues and costs for over 30 permit types, issuance of over 30,000 permits, and revenues exceeding $7 million. The position works directly with management staff to develop fee revisions as part of the annual city budget process, including in-depth financial analysis. The position will report to the Transportation Operations Manager.

Job Responsibilities Manage, oversee, monitor, and assign work activities such as prioritizing daily work tasks, working around staff schedules, approving time sheets, and managing performance and other related code interpretation including traffic and vehicle permitting. Provide solutions to problems and issues such as managing staff conflicts, helping various customers including difficult and angry types, resolving billing disputes, evaluating permit requests for locations that require extensive review for safety which also may have multiple uses and finding a resolution or compromise that will allow the best use of space. Duties related to Commercial Vehicle Load Zone (CVLZ) permitting.

Primary contact and coordinator with several departmental accounting departments to ensure interdepartmental funds transfers are processed correctly. Review and approve refund requests. Primary contact with IT to conduct all testing for software updates.

Primary contact and coordinator with Seattle IT and joint Accela Strategy team. Primary contact with SDOT management concerning historical Restricted Parking zone (RPZ) data. Responsible for any data queries or requested reporting concerning permits issued and revenue collected on an annual basis.

Assist with annual budget development, annual review of permit fees, proposed adjustments to fees via Mayor/Council budget process. Approve purchase and payment for permit inventory and payments to all vendors associated with permit production and distribution. Provide technical support and assistance to both staff and permit applicants.

Set priorities and develop operating procedures for subordinate staff. Monitor the work of subordinate staff to ensure consistent application and interpretation of applicable guidelines including municipal code and ordinances, policy and procedures. Coordination with and being the primary contact for project managers, construction managers, and property/business owners to facilitate significant construction efforts as they relate to parking.

Supporting SDOT goals in promoting diversity and social justice. Qualifications Minimum Qualifications: Three (3) years of responsible technical experience in code enforcement or related operations. One (1) year of experience in a supervisory capacity.

OR: A combination of education, and/or training, and/or experience which provide an equivalent background to perform the work of the class. Successful candidates will possess many of these additional qualifications or be able to demonstrate comparable experience and expertise: Manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain positive working relations in a fast paced environment. Effective oral and written communication skills Advanced Microsoft office suite and Sharepoint.

Effectively work in a multi-cultural workplace with a diverse customer base. Work Environment/Physical Demands: Work is performed in a normal City work/office environment with hybrid options at this time. May be exposed to hostile or abusive public.

May require lifting objects weighing up to 50 pounds. Additional Information Please attach both a cover letter and resume to your application. Failure to do so will result in your application not being considered.

Offers of employment are contingent on verification of information provided by the applicant as part of the application process, including potential background check. Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

The full salary range for this position is $43.86 - $51.24 per hour. The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits

Who May Apply: This position is open to all candidates that meet the minimum qualifications. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

The Department encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, veterans and those with diverse life experiences. Accommodations for people with disabilities are provided on request. The City is a Drug Free Workplace.


What City Of Seattle employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom