Wire Inspector

Position summary

This role is responsible for checking both newly installed and existing electrical light, heat, and power systems to ensure they meet municipal ordinances, state laws, and accepted installation, maintenance, alteration, repair, and removal standards. The work is carried out largely in the field with substantial independent judgment and technical discretion. Where needed, difficult or unusual issues may be escalated for guidance. Compliance is usually achieved through on-site education and persuasion, although legal action may be taken when required. Performance is assessed through oral and written reporting, and the position does not involve supervising other staff.

Core duties

• Review permit applications by examining plans and specifications for electrical installations, alterations, and repairs to confirm they meet legal requirements.
• Guide electricians, builders, owners, architects, and engineers by explaining applicable codes, laws, and regulations and helping resolve electrical concerns.
• Inspect electrical work during installation, alteration, or repair to verify safety, workmanship, materials, fittings, fixtures, devices, appliances, and overall compliance with approved plans and legal standards.
• Carry out periodic checks on older or potentially unsafe electrical systems that could create fire hazards.
• Look into complaints and collect evidence related to electrical code violations or hazardous conditions.
• Investigate fires believed to have an electrical cause, as well as incidents involving electric shock.
• Assess electrical systems damaged by fire, recommend corrective action, and determine which components may safely remain energized.
• Issue oral or written instructions to correct code violations, defects, and hazards, then follow up to confirm compliance.
• When necessary, seek show-cause orders from the Clerk of Courts and appear in court to enforce compliance or provide testimony in accident and damage cases.
• Prepare clear reports for supervisors describing inspections completed, conditions observed, actions taken, and recommendations for future steps.
• Perform other electrical inspection duties as required within the scope of the Massachusetts Electrical Code, 527 CMR 12.00.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities

The position calls for strong knowledge of municipal ordinances and state rules governing electrical installations, along with a solid understanding of electrical materials, methods, and installation techniques. The inspector must be able to identify unsafe wiring and conditions that present risks of fire, explosion, or injury, and must read construction plans and specifications accurately to spot deviations during the building process. Clear verbal and written communication is important, as is the ability to enforce regulations firmly, fairly, and with tact. The role also requires effective working relationships with electricians, owners, contractors, architects, engineers, and other state and municipal representatives.

Education and experience

• High school diploma or equivalent, plus additional coursework in electrical engineering or related subjects.
• At least two years of electrical construction experience at the journeyman or supervisory level.