Entry Level Building Inspector Jobs in Los Angeles, CA

Salary: $5,699.00 - $7,995.00 Monthly
Location : Whittier, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-031
Department: Community Development
Opening Date: 07/31/2026
Closing Date: 8/13/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Max Number of Applicants: 150
Description
POSITION WILL CLOSE AFTER RECEIPT OF THE FIRST 150 APPLICATIONS OR AUGUST 13, 2026 WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST
Class specifications are only intended to present a descriptive summary of the range of duties and responsibilities associated with specified positions. Therefore, specifications may not include all duties performed by individuals within a classification. In addition, specifications are intended to outline the minimum qualifications necessary for entry into the class and do not necessarily convey the qualifications of incumbents within the position.
DEFINITION:
Under general supervision, learns to conduct and conducts field inspections and checks residential, commercial and industrial construction, alteration, or repair of buildings and other structures; enforces codes related to building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, structural, and finish trade areas; performs plan review and provides building code information to the public; performs other related duties as required.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
Building Inspector I
The Building Inspector I is the entry-level class in the Building Inspector series that allows the incumbent to develop journey level knowledge and abilities. Initially, under immediate supervision, incumbents perform the more routine and less complex assignments within an established procedural framework, where there are minimal consequences of error, including a wide variety of code, law, regulation, and ordinance enforcement. This classification is distinguished from the next higher level classification of Building Inspector II by the performance of inspections requiring a lesser degree of code interpretation and judgment.
Building Inspector II
The Building Inspector II is the journey level class in the Building Inspector series in which incumbents are expected to independently, as a combination inspector, perform the full scope of assigned building inspection duties. Incumbents are responsible for performing the full range of residential, commercial, and industrial inspections, including electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and structural code compliance. The work requires independence and discretion in working with the public and in conducting field inspections, and involves a proactive implementation of applicable building codes and regulations. This class is distinguished from the next higher classification of Senior Building Inspector/Plans Examiner in that the latter has the responsibility for coordinating the building inspections, lead direction, the more complex and sensitive duties and other functions.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED:
Building Inspector I
Receives immediate supervision from a Senior Building Inspector/Plans Examiner and technical and functional supervision from a Building Inspector II depending on assignment. Incumbents in this class do not routinely exercise supervision.
Building Inspector II
Receives general supervision from the Senior Building Inspector/Plan Examiner. May exercise functional and technical supervision over Building Inspector I.
Examples of Duties
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (include but are not limited to the following)
Learns to perform and performs the full array of residential, commercial, and industrial building construction, remodel, and repair field inspections to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the public; determines existence and type of various building code violations; compiles, analyzes, and evaluates findings of investigations and inspections; interacts with architects and construction contractors to ensure code compliance; performs follow-up inspections as required; ensures compliance with all applicable municipal building related codes and regulations; issues standard construction and occupancy permits and approves final inspection certificates.
Conducts periodic residential and commercial field inspections before and during construction, remodeling or repair; ensures compliance with building and related codes and regulations; checks the safety of construction and installation practices; inspects the quality of materials and methods of construction for footings and foundations, excavations, wood framing, concrete work, steel erection, lathing, plastering, tile work, pools and spas, masonry, electrical, plumbing, and other construction work; makes final inspections to clear permits.
Interprets, applies, and explains applicable Federal, State, and municipal electrical, plumbing, structural, and mechanical codes, and other related laws, codes, and regulations to the public, departmental staff, and other agencies; advises architects, contractors, and property owners on the requirements for compliance; explains processes and procedures for obtaining compliance or appropriate permits.
Maintains clear, concise, and comprehensive records and reports related to inspection activities; maintains daily log of contacts or inspections for code enforcement cases; enters and retrieves information from records systems.
Assists in the checking of building plans and specifications for residential, and non-residential structures for compliance with applicable Building, Electrical, Plumbing, Occupancy, and Zoning Codes; checks for grade and quality of materials used in construction; assists in and coordinates plan review with other City departments or divisions and outside agencies.
Abates homes and businesses and issues stop work orders and correction notices.
Responds to questions and concerns from the public, departmental staff, and other agencies; provides information as appropriate and resolves plans and building code issues and complaints; cooperates with other agencies.
Prepares a variety of reports and correspondence, including notices of violations and follow-up letters; attends various meetings and training seminars; keeps informed of changes and new legislation pertaining to building codes and related regulations; responds to emergency situations as required.
Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, State/local agencies, City management and staff, and the public.
OTHER DUTIES: (include but are not limited to the following)
Assists at the front counter; answers questions regarding building permitting, code requirements, or related building compliance.
May be exposed to confidential and privileged information during the course of duties, which should be maintained as such.
Performs other related duties as required.
PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
Position requires sitting, standing, walking on level and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping, and making repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires both near and far vision when inspecting work and operating assigned equipment. The need to lift, carry, and push tools, equipment, and supplies weighing 25 pounds or more is also required. Additionally, the incumbent in this outdoor position works in all weather conditions, including wet, hot, and cold. The position entails working in situations that may expose the employee to fumes or airborne particles, electrical shock or mechanical hazards. The nature of the work also requires the incumbent to climb ladders, drive motorized vehicles, operate in heavy vehicle traffic conditions, and often work with constant interruptions.
Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.
Typical Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS: (The following are minimal qualifications necessary for entry into the classification.)
Education and/or Experience:
Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for a Building Inspector I/II. A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess the equivalent of:
Building Inspector I
Three years of experience in one or more of the general building trades, construction or a related field, and a high school diploma or equivalent.
Building Inspector II
In addition to the above, two years of experience as a building inspector with a public agency or equivalent to that of a Building Inspector I in the City of Whittier.
License/Certificate:
Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license and a safe driving record. Possession of an I.C.C. Building Inspection certificate within six months of appointment is required.
KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES/SKILLS: (The following are a representative sample of the KAS's necessary to perform essential duties of the position.)
Knowledge of:
Principles, practices, and methods used in various building construction areas, including plumbing, electrical, and mechanical; operational characteristics and use of standard equipment used in building inspection and the building trades; building and construction standards and materials; construction materials and testing procedures; basic principles of mathematics; applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations, including construction code manuals and specifications; standard office procedures, practices, and equipment; modern office equipment, including a computer and applicable software; methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation and writing; proper English, spelling, and grammar; and occupational hazards and standard safety procedures.
Ability to:
Apply policies, procedures, codes, and regulations pertaining to building inspection; plan and prioritize daily inspections; read, interpret, and explain maps, sketches, plans, drawings, specifications, and technical manuals; maintain I.C.C. certification through continuing education programs; keep accurate records; learn more complex principles, practices, techniques, and regulations pertaining to assigned duties; implement, explain, and apply applicable laws, codes and regulations; read, interpret, and record data accurately; perform mathematical calculations quickly and accurately; organize, prioritize, and follow up on work assignments; work independently and as part of a team; make sound decisions within established guidelines; respond to issues and concerns from contractors, homeowners, and the community; analyze a complex issue, and develop and implement an appropriate response; follow written and oral directions; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; and establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Skill to:
Operate an office computer and variety of word processing and software applications; and safely and effectively operate a variety of tools and equipment used in building inspection.
Supplemental Information
Medical:
Applicants will be required as a prerequisite to employment to successfully pass a
physical examination, including a drug screen, the cost of which will be paid by the City.
Selection/Exam Process: The person selected will be expected to perform all the functions of the position. Based on a review of the applications and the supplemental applications received, the candidates appearing to be the most qualified and meeting the City's particular needs will be invited in writing to the exam process. A candidate must achieve a passing score on each exam to proceed to the next exam.
Exam Information: (Dates to be determined.)
Panel Oral Interview: 100%
The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract and any provisions contained in this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
The City of Whittier is an Equal Opportunity Employer
EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS (Actual benefits may vary by employee group)
Retirement - Employees hired prior to 1/1/13 and those individuals identified as Classic Members under Public Employment Retirement Law (PERL) will be enrolled in the City's 2.5% @ 55 for Miscellaneous Members and may have a future CalPERS contribution as established by resolutions, labor agreements or Public Employee Retirement Law. New members under Public Employment Retirement Law (PERL) hired as of 1/1/13 will have the new CalPERS 2% @ 62 for Miscellaneous Plan and will have a mandatory CalPERS contribution as established by PERL. There is currently no deduction for Social Security, as the City does not participate in the Social Security program.
Insurance - Health, dental and life coverage for employee and/or dependents. Vision coverage for civilian employees and dependents and police sworn personnel. City pays substantial portion of insurance premiums. Employee paid Supplemental Life Insurance available through payroll deduction.
Flexible Reimbursement Account Program - Allows employee payment of insurance premiums, medical and dependent care expenses with Pre-Tax dollars, increasing take-home pay.
Employee Wellness Program - Promotes the health and well being of employees and dependents.
Vacation - 80 hours accrual per year after one year, increasing to 184 hours per year after 19 years of service.
Sick Leave - 96 hours accrual per year. 16 hours may be used for personal necessity. Partial sick leave pay upon separation.
Personal Leave - 8 hours per year not charged to sick leave.
Holidays - 92 hours paid holidays for miscellaneous employees; 84 hours paid holidays for sworn police personnel.
Employee Assistance Program - Employee and family members receive professional confidential assistance with personal problems.
Tuition Reimbursement - City pays substantial cost of tuition for job related courses.
Computer Loan Program - City offers no interest loans to purchase personal computer equipment.
Credit Union - Credit Union membership is available, providing low interest loans.
Deferred Compensation - Available for employee participation.
Disabi