BUILDING INSPECTOR

Salary: $49,000 - $65,000 (Depending on certifications)

JOB SUMMARY

Performs technical and administrative work in inspecting residential and commercial structures for compliance with adopted building, life safety, and zoning codes. Work includes independent field inspections, documentation of findings, enforcement actions, and communication with contractors, design professionals, and the public.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• ICC certifications (Residential Building Inspector, Commercial Building Inspector, Plans Examiner).
• Proficient with digital permitting/inspection platforms (CitizenServe, EnerGov, SmartGov), mobile field devices, and electronic documentation.
• Experience in municipal code enforcement or construction management.
• Knowledge of South Carolina‑specific amendments and local ordinances.
• Strong report‑writing and documentation skills.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Conducts inspections of new construction, renovations, additions, repairs, and upgrades for compliance with applicable building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, and fire prevention codes.
• Performs residential and commercial inspections including foundation, framing, electrical systems, plumbing systems, HVAC/mechanical, energy compliance, and final occupancy.
• Documents deficiencies, issues correction notices, performs re‑inspections, and maintains accurate inspection records.
• Evaluates structures for safety and suitability; recommends condemnation when warranted.
• Reviews plans, reports, and technical documents including site plans, architectural drawings, engineering reports, and energy compliance documentation.
• Issues stop‑work orders and other enforcement actions as required.
• Utilizes building codes, Town ordinances, zoning regulations, manufacturer specifications, and reference materials in daily decision‑making.
• Operates Town vehicle, inspection tools, testing equipment, and standard office technology; uses software such as CitizenServe and ComCheck/ResCheck.
• Provides professional communication and exceptional customer service to contractors, homeowners, engineers, architects, and Town staff.
• Performs administrative tasks including report writing, data entry, correspondence, and record management.
• Utilizes excellent judgement and decision-making abilities.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Must be licensed with the SCLLR as a Residential Inspector or Commercial Inspector. Must be able to complete required courses, certification(s), and continuing education units as deemed necessary by the Town. 

Requires an Associate’s degree in construction, construction inspection, code enforcement, or a closely related field with one to two years’ experience in all phases of the construction field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Must possess a valid South Carolina driver's license. 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of building codes, life safety codes, Town ordinances, and zoning regulations.
• Knowledge of the methods and materials used in construction and renovation work.
• Knowledge of the standard tools, materials, and practices of the trade.
• Knowledge of technical terminology used in construction, inspection, and code enforcement.
• Knowledge of modern office practices, record‑keeping systems, and inspection software.
• Knowledge of proper English usage and basic mathematics.
• Knowledge of how to react calmly and appropriately in emergency or high‑pressure situations.
• Skill in conducting thorough inspections and identifying deficiencies with accuracy.
• Skill in using inspection tools, testing equipment, and digital platforms such as CitizenServe and ComCheck/ResCheck.
• Skill in interpreting plans, specifications, manufacturer requirements, and engineering documents.
• Ability to determine proper corrective actions and communicate them clearly to contractors, homeowners, and design professionals.
• Ability to perform fieldwork in physically demanding environments, including confined spaces, heights, uneven terrain, and exposure to weather or construction hazards.
• Ability to offer assistance to co‑workers and employees of other departments as required.
• Ability to take initiative and complete duties independently without the need for direct supervision.
• Ability to manage multiple inspections and deadlines while maintaining professionalism and accuracy.
• Ability to communicate tactfully and diplomatically in sensitive or contentious situations.
• Ability to demonstrate sound judgement and effective decision-making with the ability to assess situations, evaluate options, and choose appropriate courses of action in alignment with department standards.
• Ability to prepare clear, accurate reports and maintain organized records.
• Ability to learn and apply new codes, technologies, and procedures to improve job performance.

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Tasks involve the ability to exert very moderate physical effort in light work, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and crawling, and the lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (up to 20 pounds) and occasionally heavier objects and materials (up to 40 pounds). Tasks may require traversing uneven terrain, entering confined spaces, and/or climbing ladders during field inspections.

BENEFITS:

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• SC Retirement System
• 401k deferred compensation
• 457b deferred compensation
• Vacation leave
• Sick leave
• Holiday leave (12 holidays)
• Flexible Spending Account
• Additional Voluntary Insurances

APPLICATION SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Upload your resume and list of references

The Town of Summerville is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will recruit and hire employees without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, genetic information, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions), age, political affiliation or disability, except when physical condition is a bona fide occupational qualification, and any other status protected by federal or state law.