INSPECTOR (Structural Inspection)

About the role

Service Line/Section: Houston Permitting Center / Code Enforcement - Structural Inspection Section. Location: 1002 Washington Avenue. Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (subject to change). Applications accepted from all interested persons.

Responsibilities

• Coordinates the enforcement and application of various codes, ordinances, and technical specifications for structural systems and manufactured homes to assure conformance with plans and specifications.
• Prepares, conducts, and reviews various types of structural inspections for compliance with building construction specifications.
• Performs inspections, identifies problem areas, and recommends solutions.
• Meets with the general public, contractors, technical professionals, and businesses to respond to inquiries and technical problems.
• Performs record‑keeping activities to maintain filing systems, reports, and documentation.
• Researches and evaluates plans, specifications, and drawings.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Education: High School Diploma or G.E.D. and up to 18 months of education or training in the area of inspection to be performed.
• Experience: Two (2) years of journey‑level or skilled experience related to the area of inspection to be performed.
• License: May require a valid Texas driver’s license and compliance with the City of Houston’s driving policy.
• Preferred certificate (to be obtained within 11 months of employment): ICBO Building Inspector’s Certificate (Structural).

Preferred Qualifications

• Carpentry, general contractor, or superintendent experience.
• Commercial or residential ICC inspector certification.
• Fluency in Spanish.
• Eligible veteran applicants (in accordance with Executive Order 1‑6).

Working Conditions

The position routinely requires lifting moderately heavy items (up to 40 pounds), long periods of walking on rough surfaces, exposure to dust, and climbing stairs and ladders. Field inspections expose the inspector to weather elements such as heat, rain, and cold. This is a Department of Houston Public Works Emergency Management position at the Tier II level.

Pay & Incentives

Pay Grade: 18. Salary is determined by the candidate’s qualifications and the pay rates of other employees in this classification.

• Retention incentive: Up to $3,000 upon completion of 24 months of employment.
• Relocation incentive: Up to $1,000 upon submission of qualifying receipts.
• Certification incentive: Annual incentives up to $3,900 upon acquisition of eligible certifications.
• Step increases: Salary adjusted by 3.1% at the start of the 3rd year; adjusted by 2.8% at the start