Building Inspector (Building Division)

Performs technical inspection of all residential construction projects within the City of Kingsport to ensure compliance with appropriate building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical codes. Assists in enforcement of City codes, ordinances, and structures unfit for human habitation. 


Inspects residential projects throughout the various construction and/or remodeling phases for compliance to applicable City, State and Federal codes, regulations and/or ordinances including building, plumbing, electrical, and gas;
• Checks location of structure or additions against approved plans for compliance to City zoning ordinance for setbacks;
• Inspects materials, workmanship, foundations, footings, and framing;
• Refers interpretative questions of codes to Building Manager for review and response to the public.
• Maintains records and files of project status.
• Performs other duties as assigned.


• Knowledge of the principles and techniques of building/construction inspection activities;
• Knowledge of all applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes and regulations;
• Knowledge of City of Kingsport codes and policies regarding zoning, environmental restrictions and other regulations;
• Knowledge  of  acceptable  safety  standards  and  methods  of  building  construction  for  residential property;
• Skill  in  working  effectively  in  an  environment  subject  to  quickly  changing  priorities,  constant interruptions, frequent exposure to varying environmental conditions as well as hazards of in-process construction;
• Skill in determining if construction plans/specifications conform with code requirements;
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with contractors, city personnel, and the public.


High school graduate or high school equivalent, and experience equivalent to three years’ full time construction work with responsibility as a foreman, inspection, superintendent or related background; OR Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, Building Construction, Engineering, or closely related area; and one year full time construction work with responsibility as a foreman, inspection, superintendent or related background. Education cannot be substituted for required certifications by the State of Tennessee.  Must possess valid TN/VA Driver’s License.

*Required Certifications are as follows:
•ICC Certification as Residential Building, Plumbing & Mechanical Inspector within twelve months (1 year) of hire date as required by T.C.A. 68-120-113, T.C.A. 68-120-118 and modified by TN State Fire Marshal’s Rules 0780-0216. 
•ICC Certification as Commercial Building, Plumbing & Mechanical Inspector within 2 years of hire date. 
•Must posses valid TN/VA Drive’s License.

*Preferred Certifications:
•ICC Certification as residential energy code inspector or accessibility inspector or FEMA floodplain management certification.

Salary : $49,088 - $52,374