Plumbing and Gasfitting Inspector

City of Worcester – Department of Inspectional Services, Building and Zoning Division

About the role

Under the direction of the Chief Plumbing & Gas Inspector, the Plumbing and Gasfitting Inspector enforces municipal ordinances, state laws, and accepted practices related to the installation, maintenance, alteration, repair, and removal of plumbing and gasfitting systems. The position exercises independent judgment and requires considerable technical discretion. Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Examine plans and specifications for conformity with legal requirements in connection with permit applications, advising plumbers, builders, owners, architects, and engineers on plumbing problems and interpreting pertinent codes, laws, and regulations.
• Inspect and test new and existing plumbing systems, water heating systems, water circulation, piping, fixtures, equipment, air conditioning, and water storage systems for compliance with safety, material quality, and approved plans.
• Inspect old installations that may constitute hazards.
• Issue permits for installation, alteration, repair, and connection of plumbing to sewers.
• Investigate complaints and obtain evidence of plumbing code violations or hazardous conditions.
• Investigate accidents of reported plumbing origin.
• Inspect plumbing installations damaged by fires, recommend necessary corrections, and determine which parts of the installations may still be used.
• Issue verbal or written orders for corrections to deviations from plumbing codes and follow up to ensure compliance.
• Enforce compliance with legal requirements, appear in court to provide evidence, and testify in accident and damage suits.
• Prepare reports covering inspections, conditions found, actions taken, and recommendations for future action.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Current and valid journeyman or master plumber’s license issued by the Massachusetts Board of Examiners of Plumbers and Gasfitters.
• Five years of continuous practical experience as a master or journeyman plumber immediately preceding appointment.
• Valid Driver’s License and access to reliable transportation.
• Regular onsite attendance is required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of plumbing principles, theory, terminology, codes, symbols, and standard abbreviations.
• Knowledge of applicable local and state plumbing codes and regulations.
• Knowledge of safety practices and precautions in plumbing work.
• Knowledge of methods and techniques for inspecting and testing plumbing systems.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions and interpret plans, blueprints, schematics, and drawings.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and communicate clearly, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to inspect plumbing systems and detect faults in materials or workmanship.
• Ability to enforce regulations firmly, tactfully, and impartially.
• Ability to supervise journeymen and master plumbers.
• Experience with electronic management software and digital work order processes.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to make sound, accurate decisions quickly.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or a Master’s Craftsman knowledge level in a professional field or trade.
• Five years of prior work experience as a Plumber or in a related field.

Pay

$32.26 - $42.18 hourly, full-time.

Benefits

Excellent benefits package.