THE CITY
- THE CITY OF HEMET IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER**
The City of Hemet has an excellent opportunity in the Community Development Department - Building Division for current and future vacancies for the position of Building Inspector I. This is a great opportunity to be a part of a new, progressive, innovative, and motivated team of building and safety inspectors, code enforcement officers, and fire prevention officers that strive to make a positive impact in our community, one project at a time.
The ideal candidate will possess integrity; adaptability and a solution-oriented focus; the ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships; strong communication skills; an ability to relate well to the public, management, and other City employees. Exemplify an enthusiastic and effective customer service attitude by providing high level customer service to the public and City staff. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, motivated, and flexible; demonstrate a proactive and creative approach to addressing challenges.
Summary Description
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 residential inspections, minor plan checks and provides back-up assistance at the public counter on an as needed basis while learning City policies and specific methods and techniques of inspection work. This classification is alternatively staffed with Building Inspector II and incumbents may advance to the higher level after gaining experience and demonstrating a level of proficiency that meets the qualifications of the higher level class.
Essential Duties
- Performs the full array of duties assigned to classes in the Building Inspector series, including office and field work involving inspection, code enforcement and permit issuance.
- Ensures compliance with applicable laws, ordinances and codes (including, but not limited to, building, roofing, plumbing, mechanical, electrical and energy codes) to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public.
- Checks building plans and specifications for compliance with various codes.
- Keeps informed of changes and new legislation pertaining to building codes and related 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, firewalls, masonry, electrical, heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing and other constructions work.
- Inspects building for proper disability access to ensure conformance with applicable disabled access requirements.
- Makes final inspections to clear permits.
- Interprets codes and regulations; explains required inspections and construction requirements to owners, architects, engineers, contractors and the public.
- Advises owners on matters related to building permits.
- Investigates and resolves building and related complaints.
- Maintains records and files of inspections made and actions taken on a database.
- Issues vacate and stop work orders and correction notices.
- Turns over to Code Enforcement for follow-up.
- Assists Code Enforcement in performing their inspections.
- Inspects mobile homes under Title 25.
- Conducts inspections of existing buildings to determine hazardous conditions.
- Looks for construction or alterations being performed without proper building permits.
- Performs Rental Registration inspections.
- Assist the public in the completion of permit applications for building permits.
- Receive building plans for plan check and provide necessary procedures, forms and information in person and on the phone.
- Provide public information over the counter and by telephone concerning the issuance and fee schedules for building plan checks and building permits.
- Assist in the coordination of plan checks.
- Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, state/local agencies, City management and staff, and the public.
Knowledge
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- 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; 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
- Occupational hazards and standard safety procedures.
Ability
- Apply policies, procedures, codes and regulations pertaining to building inspection;
- Plan and prioritize daily inspections; read and interpret maps, sketches, plans, drawings, specifications and technical manuals
- Maintain I.C.B.O. 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
- 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
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships
Skill
- To operate an office computer and variety of word processing and software applications. The ability to operate an iPad, cell phone and/or other electronic devices to assist in the performance of the job duties.
Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for a Building Inspector I. A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess the equivalent of:
Building Inspector I
Two years of journey level building construction experience, or 1 year of municipal permit technician or building inspection experience and a high school diploma or equivalent.
Certification/License
Building Inspector I
- Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license and a safe driving record.
- Possession of an International Code Council (ICC) or other recognized state or national organization's Building Inspection certificate within one year of appointment is required.
Supplemental Information
ENVIRONMENTAL AND PHYSICAL 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.
Selection Process
All properly completed applications will be reviewed and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. The process may include any combination of a written exam, oral board interview, and/or skills assessment to further evaluate job-related qualifications. Candidates who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on an eligibility list which will remain valid for a minimum of six months.
Note: Prospective employees will undergo, and must successfully pass, a background reference check (including fingerprinting) and a medical examination. Drug screening may be required.
RESUMES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF COMPLETED APPLICATION FORMS BUT MAY BE ATTACHED.
CANDIDATES WHO REQUIRE REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION IN THE SELECTION PROCESS SHOULD STATE THEIR NEEDS IN WRITING WHEN SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION PACKAGE.
THE PROVISIONS IN THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. ANY PROVISION CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE.
Employees of the
Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 721
Benefits Summary
(Updated January 2026)
The following is a summary of the provided benefits to full-time employees in the
SEIU Employees unit. For further information, please refer to the SEIU MOU.
Retirement: The City contracts with the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS).
- Classic Members: 2.5% at 55 Formula; 1959 survivor benefit; final compensation based on single highest year; employee contributes 8% (no Social Security deduction).
- PEPRA (New) Members: 2% at 62 Formula; 1959 survivor benefit; final compensation based on a three-year average; employee contributes 50% of total normal cost, currently 8% (no Social Security deduction).
Medical Coverage
- The City contributes 100% of premium for employee only coverage on the City's Kaiser plans.
Plan Year 2025/2026
(September 2025- August 2026)
Dental & Vision Coverage
- The City pays 100% of the premium for dental & vision coverage for employees and their dependents.
Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance
- The City pays 100% of the premium for a term-life insurance policy of $50,000.
- The City pays 100% of the premium for long-term disability insurance.
Educational Reimbursement
- The City will provide up to $2,500 per calendar year, subject to terms set forth in the SEIU Employees MOU.
Leave Accruals
- 96 hours of Vacation leave
- 8 hours per month Sick Leave
- 10 paid Holidays & 2 floating holidays per year
Deferred Compensation
- The City contributes $100 per month to a deferred compensation plan in lieu of retiree medical benefits.
Bilingual Pay
- The City will provide $200 per month for eligible assignments based on the City’s needs for bilingual skill and successful completion of a test.
Educational Incentive
- The City will provide a maximum of $100 per month for an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree to eligible employees.
Note: The provisions of this summary do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained in this summary may be modified or revoked without notice. The types and levels of employee benefits provided, including City contributions toward benefit costs, are subject to change as a result of periodic contract negotiations between the recognized employee association and the City of Hemet.
01
Please be sure to answer the supplemental questions thoroughly and accurately. Applicants are responsible for clearly, completely, and accurately identifying their qualifications. Please do not indicate "see resume". The rating of the supplemental questions may determine your application status and/or rank on the eligibility list. I have read and understand the statement above concerning submission of supplemental questionnaire responses.
02
What is the highest level of education you have completed?
- High School / GED
- Associate Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree
- Doctorate/Doctoral Degree
03
Do you have the required ICC certification?
- Yes
- No
- No, but I am able to obtain the required ICC certification within one (1) year of appointment.
04
Do you possess, or have the ability to obtain, prior to appointment, a Class C valid Driver's License.
05
How many years of journey level building inspection or building construction experience do you have?
- No experience
- Some experience (less than 2 years)
- Mid-level experience (2-5 years)
- Advanced level experience (5 or more years)
06
How many years of building inspection experience in a government agency do you have?
- No experience
- Some experience (less than 1 year)
- Mid-level experience (1-3 years)
- Advanced level experience (3 or more years)
07
How many years of experience in construction inspection services within a municipal organization do you have? (One year of experience is equivalent to 2080 hours.)
- None, but I am willing to learn
- Less than two years of experience
- More than two years, less than three years of experience
- More than three years, less than four years of experience
- More than four years, less than five years of experience
08
Please describe your experience with using personal computers and other electronic devices to enter, retrieve, and update inspection data and permit information, send and receive email, take and upload photos?
09
Please describe your experience in construction inspection services within a municipal organization. Be thorough and include details regarding where and when you obtained this experience. If you do not have this experience, please type "NA."
10
Describe any experience you may have in residential code compliance such as electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and mechanical codes. If none, type NA.
11
Do you have any experience in permit issuance or construction inspection experience?
12
Describe your experience in detail interpreting and applying building codes and related regulations. If you do not possess the relevant experience, please write "N/A" in the space provided.
13
Describe your experience in detail conducting field inspections of residential and non-residential construction. If you do not possess the relevant experience, please write "N/A" in the space provided.
14
Tell me about a time you received feedback from your manager. How did you respond to that feedback and did you apply the feedback?
15
Tell me about a time you were able to successfully persuade an upset customer at work. What was the situation and how were you able to persuade them?
16
Please describe your philosophy and experience regarding high-quality customer service and any relevant examples you may want to include.
17
What is your view on training?
18
CERTIFICATE OF APPLICANT: I certify that all statements and information provided in this application and any attachments are true, and I understand that any false or misleading statements or omissions of material facts may forfeit right to employment considerations by the City of Hemet.
