Inspector II Private Development - Permits

About the role

The Development Services & Permits Division facilitates safe and responsible development, construction, and occupancy of buildings and properties in the community. In 2023 the division issued over 57,000 permits with a construction value of $11.15 B, conducted more than 41,000 inspections and nearly 85,000 plan reviews. The division strives to provide prompt and courteous service, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, promoting public safety, protecting the environment, and supporting economic growth. The Inspector II performs intermediate inspections with greater independence across diverse project types, interpreting plans, evaluating construction methods, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance with Harris County rules, preparing detailed reports, coordinating with contractors, assisting in resolving field issues, and may mentor entry‑level inspectors.

Responsibilities

• Organizes work schedules to inspect construction projects within assigned areas.
• Works independently across a variety of construction project types.
• Interprets construction plans and evaluates construction methods for compliance.
• Maintains detailed records of inspections and activities within assigned areas.
• Prepares detailed inspection reports.
• Verifies development complies with applicable County regulations.
• Responds to complaints related to construction and development activities.
• Coordinates with contractors to resolve field issues.
• May mentor and provide guidance to entry‑level inspectors.
• Ensures proper operation and maintenance of assigned County vehicle.
• Provides disaster recovery and emergency response support, including during hurricanes and floods.
• Performs other duties as assigned, including emergency or disaster response support.

Requirements

• Education: A high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent is required. An associate or bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Engineering, Architecture, or other closely related field may substitute for the experience requirement.
• Experience: Four (4) years of construction experience.

Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with the public and contractors.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and department‑supported applications.
• Ability to independently read and interpret construction drawings and topographical maps.
• Ability to interpret and apply applicable codes and regulations.
• Ability to evaluate construction methods for compliance.
• Ability to prepare detailed inspection reports and business correspondence.
• Ability to multitask and maintain strong attention to detail.
• Valid driver’s license (Texas driver’s license required upon hire).
• Good driving record (Must provide and maintain proof of automobile liability insurance upon employment).

Qualifications

• Preferred education: An associate or bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Engineering, Architecture, or other closely related field.
• Preferred experience: Experience interpreting and implementing rules or regulations; construction experience; excellent organizational skills; previous government experience preferred; government experience involving the administration or enforcement of regulations preferred.
• Preferred knowledge, skills, and abilities: Intermediate or advanced knowledge of construction techniques or engineering design; bilingual in Spanish and/or Vietnamese preferred.