Building & Zoning - Building Inspector

Job Overview

This position involves reviewing and assessing construction permit applications for one- and two-family homes, advising on approval decisions to the Building Official. The role includes on-site inspections of grading, construction, alterations, repairs, or relocation of structures, ensuring alignment with issued permits, Florida State and local Hendry County codes, and ordinances. The inspector also ensures the safety of work sites and escalates major compliance issues to the supervisor.

Key Responsibilities

• Review permit applications and construction plans for one- and two-family dwellings as directed by the Building Official.
• Provide procedural guidance and explain relevant codes and ordinances to contractors, developers, and the public regarding building and land development in the county.
• Conduct inspections before and during construction phases, covering structural, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, refrigeration, sewer, water, gas, and grading activities of residential projects.
• Perform structural inspections including foundations, floors, framing, roofs, plaster, and masonry.
• Verify contractors’ licensing compliance for the work performed.
• Document inspection findings and work status in an online system.
• Address non-compliance issues diplomatically with contractors and owners, suggesting corrective measures and alerting supervisors about significant conflicts.
• Carry out related tasks such as reviewing and issuing contractor licenses, sending notices for expired permits, and handling homeowner complaints.
• Maintain current knowledge of building codes and construction best practices, and work toward full inspector certification.
• Perform routine administrative duties including managing phone calls, emails, and correspondence.
• Attend meetings and undertake additional duties as assigned.
• Respond to emergencies and declared state disasters as needed.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Comprehensive understanding of Florida Building Codes as well as local land use and construction ordinances.
• Ability to assess physical construction conditions for code compliance.
• Knowledge of construction materials and their characteristics.
• Competent in reading and interpreting building plans and permit applications.
• Familiarity with building design, permitting, and construction processes.
• Capability to work physically on ladders and in confined spaces requiring bending, crawling, stooping, climbing, and twisting.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, coupled with tact and diplomacy.
• Mathematical proficiency and computer skills.

Minimum Qualifications

• Demonstrated good moral character and at least five years of responsible experience in residential electrical, mechanical, building, and plumbing construction, supported by affidavits from certified contractors, architects, engineers, or inspectors per licensing regulations.
• Must possess and maintain a Florida Building Code Inspector certification under Section 468.609 Florida Statutes.
• Hold a valid Florida Driver’s License with a satisfactory driving record for insurance purposes.
• Candidates without certification may be hired as trainees, required to obtain Provisional Certificate for one- and two-family dwelling inspection within 90 days and show progress toward full certification. Failure to progress may result in termination.

Working Hours and Compensation

• Work schedule: Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with potential overtime.
• Starting salary typically begins at $65,000 per year, varying by experience and certifications.
• Benefits include County medical coverage and State Retirement plan.

Additional Information

Hendry County Board of County Commissioners is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusive hiring practices without discrimination based on disability. Participation in the E-Verify program is required. Preference in hiring is given to eligible veterans and their families. The County is a drug-free workplace and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Applications must be submitted along with an Applicant Survey and Veteran’s Preference form to Hendry County BOCC at the provided address and contact details.