NOTE: This recruitment is open on a continuous basis and may close without prior notice. First review of the applications will occur on December 22, 2025. Please thoroughly review the entire job flyer including the application instructions. Failure to submit a completed application and provide required documentation may result in an application being removed from further consideration.

The City of Downey seeks a Building Plan Checker/Inspector that is detail-oriented, customer-focused, and experienced in both plan review and building inspection. The City is looking for someone with a strong technical background in building codes, construction practices, and safety standards, as well as exceptional communication and problem-solving skills. The Building Plan Checker/Inspector will be part of the Building & Safety Division within the Community Development Department, which provides permit issuance, plan review, and inspection services to ensure compliance with local and state building regulations.

This position plays a vital role in reviewing building plans, conducting field inspections, and assisting property owners, contractors, and design professionals through the permitting and construction processes. The Building Plan Checker/Inspector helps to ensure that all projects meet safety and code requirements while maintaining a customer service–oriented approach that supports the community’s development goals.

The ideal candidate is an experienced professional who demonstrates sound judgment, technical expertise, and a collaborative spirit. The Building Plan Checker/Inspector will be highly organized, efficient, and approachable—capable of providing clear guidance to applicants and maintaining positive working relationships with staff, other departments, and the public.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dedicated and knowledgeable team committed to ensuring safe and high-quality construction in the City of Downey. If you take pride in your work, take pride in providing excellent customer service, value teamwork, and enjoy serving the community, apply today!

An Eligible List Of Qualified Applicants Will Be Established From This Recruitment. Eligible List May Be Utilized To Fill Other Full And Part -time Vacancies As Needed. Generally, a Valid Eligible List Is In Effect For Up To One Year. The Following Examples Are Intended To Describe The General Nature And Level Of Work Performed By Persons Assigned To This Classification And Are Specific To The Position By Division

Check plans and specifications of proposed structures for compliance with code and safety requirements, including occupancy factors and types of construction;
Confer with builders, engineers, contractors, architects, and the public regarding building codes and permit requirements;
Respond to questions and inquiries and perform special investigations as required;
Provide temporary and vacation relief in similar occupational fields, such as building inspection; and
Provide building inspection of special projects as directed and maintain records of inspection and progress.

Any combination of education, training, and experience that would likely provide the required skills, knowledge and abilities for successful performance in the position is qualifying. A typical combination is:

Education: High School graduation or equivalent.

Associate of Science Degree in engineering, information technology, or mathematics is preferred.

Experience: Minimum of three (3) years increasingly responsible experience, including two (2) years experience preparing or performing review of plans or construction drawings, building or public works inspections, or closely related experience, preferably in a municipal government environment.

Knowledge of:Principles, methods, materials, equipment and hazards of field construction; collection of evidence and information necessary to support enforcement efforts; building and zoning codes; planning regulations and ordinances or engineering rules and regulations; and permit processing and fee structures.

Ability to: Understand, interpret, comprehend and analyze plans, reports and specifications to effectively identify and correct defects and deficiencies of residential, industrial and commercial site construction plans; understand operations; read and interpret rules, regulations, and ordinances; apply engineering principles, rules and regulations to permit issuance procedures; perform basic mathematical computations; maintain accurate files and records; understand and follow verbal and written directions; interact with the public in inspection and enforcement situations requiring diplomacy and tact; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; operate a personal computer using Microsoft applications; establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships during the performance of your duties; work with a minimum of supervision; construction grading issues and water quality measures that support runoff infiltration.License/Certification:

The following certifications are not required but are highly desirable:

California registration as a Civil or Structural Engineer
Certification as an Energy and Green Plans Examiner
Certification as a California Access Specialist (CASp)

A valid California Class C Driver’s License and an acceptable driving record at the time of appointment and throughout active employment is required.

Physical Tasks and Environmental Conditions: Independent body mobility to stand, climb stairs and ladders, walk on uneven ground or wet surfaces; upper body strength to reach and move items from above shoulder positions; corrected vision to read documents with standard text and computer screens; strength to lift and carry tools or equipment up to twenty-five (25) pounds in weight.

Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in an office environment and in the field with exposure to weather conditions. Sit, walk, or stand for extended periods of time; and, bending or stooping repeatedly or continually over time.

Testing & Selection Process

All applications materials received by the application deadline will be reviewed and evaluated on the basis of information submitted to determine the level and scope of the candidate's preparation for the position. All information supplied by applicants is subject to verification.

The acceptance of an employment application depends upon whether or not an applicant has provided adequate information that demonstrates meeting the qualifications for the position as stated above. Please complete the application and supplemental questionnaire thoroughly and completely. Candidates must be specific and complete in describing their qualifications for this position. Failure to state all pertinent information may lead to elimination from consideration. Stating "See Resume" or attaching a resume is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application.

Those applicants, who most closely match the desired qualifications, will be invited to participate in the selection process which will consist of an appraisal examination (oral interview) weighted 100%.

The appraisal examination may also include performance testing to assess the applicant's knowledge, education, experience, and general ability to perform the essential functions of the position.

Candidate(s) who complete testing with acceptable results will be placed on an Eligibility List to be considered by the Department's hiring authority. An employment offer is contingent upon acceptable results from a completed background review, including a fingerprint check with the California Department of Justice (DOJ). A pre-placement medical exam will be scheduled after the issuance of a conditional offer of employment.

Any applicant requiring reasonable accommodation during the selection process due to a qualified disability must inform the Human Resources Office at (562) 904-7292 at least 72 hours in advance.

City of Downey

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Plan Checker/Inspector