District Building Inspector

Requisition ID: 43387 

Organization

Located on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples, Vancouver has a commitment to becoming a City of Reconciliation. Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable and environmentally sustainable cities. Named among Canada's Top 100 Employers, BC's Top Employers, and Canada's Greenest Employers, the City of Vancouver seeks colleagues who can help shape and embody our core commitments to sustainability, reconciliation, equity and outstanding quality of life for all residents.

Consider joining our committed team of staff and being part of an innovative, inclusive and rewarding workplace.

Main Purpose & Function 
The District Building Inspector performs technical work of a regulatory and inspectional nature involving inspection of all types of buildings undergoing construction, alteration or repair and determining whether the work done conforms to the approved plans and/or by-law requirements, e.g. Building, Zoning and Sign By-laws. 

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Inspects all types of buildings from placing of foundation until completion of construction. 
• Records the results of inspectional activities on-line using the Permits & Licenses computer system (POSSE). 
• Accesses information from related software to research information such as status of permits, ownership of buildings and any information necessary in assisting with day-to-day inspectional and report writing duties. 
• Reviews infractions with owners/contractors and discusses the corrections required. 
• Conducts re-inspections and follow-up on outstanding work and/or violations. 
• Maintains accurate inspection records and prepares concise inspection reports.  
• Checks plans as required and able to work with a team of inspectors and willing to take initiative to help others.  
• Other duties/responsibilities as assigned 

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Completion of Grade 12, supplemented by either post-secondary school training in Building Technology at a recognized vocational institute or by an approved apprenticeship program. 
• Considerable experience in building construction supplemented by some experience as a construction foreman, superintendent or contractor, or an equivalent combination or training and experience. 
• Preference will also be given to applicants having completed Building By-Law related courses at a recognized institution, or having certification through the Building Officials Association of British Columbia (BOABC).  

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of all the common types and methods of building construction in wood, brick, masonry, reinforced concrete, steel and other building material. 
• Thorough knowledge of building materials including their strength, resistance to time and weather, and other pertinent information. 
• Considerable knowledge of the Vancouver Building By-law. 
• Considerable knowledge of the relevant sections of the Sign and the Zoning and Development By-laws. 
• Considerable knowledge of the Departmental regulations and procedures for by-law enforcement. 
• Considerable knowledge of stresses and strains on roofs, joists, sills and other parts of buildings. 
• Working knowledge of heating systems, air conditioning, ventilation, drainage, sub-soils and related factors in building construction.  
• Working knowledge of related by-laws and regulations which affect the construction and repair of buildings.  
• Some knowledge of material and labour costs.  
• Ability to meet with contractors, developers, tradesmen and owners to discuss construction problems, and to enforce by-law requirements with firmness, impartiality and good judgement.  
• Ability to work outside in all types of weather, to walk long distances, and to climb ladders and steps.  
• Ability to write reports on inspections.  
• Ability to read sketches and plans, and to suggest necessary changes.  
• Ability to analyze all aspects of a proposed building site, or a partially constructed or existing building, and to make accurate decisions as to whether it meets by-law requirements. 
• Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with customers, and demonstrate clear communication skills, both orally and in writing. 
• Working knowledge of computers and the ability to apply this knowledge to different systems with minimum training. 
• Ability to work independently in the field and to make on-site evaluations and decisions, consistent with the requirements of various City by-laws and Departmental policies. 

A Police Record Check is a requirement of this position.  A clearance requires the absence of any criminal charges or convictions related to this position.

Drivers License and Record Checks

Candidates must attach the following records and satisfy the City’s driving requirements to be considered for this role:

• Copy of your five-year ICBC Commercial Driver’s Abstract (N Print) directly from ICBC dated within 14 days of this posting
• Copy of your five-year ICBC Driver’s Claims History directly from ICBC within 14 days of this posting
• If you have less than five years driving experience in BC, a request must be made for out of province/country abstract and claims history

Where operationally appropriate and subject to change, the City of Vancouver has a Flexible Work Program. This program allows staff to work remotely 1 – 4 days a week from locations that are a daily commutable distance from their work at a City worksite.  At this time this position is eligible to be part of the Flexible Work Program.

Business Unit/Department: Development, Buildings & Licensing (1250) 

Affiliation: CUPE 15 Non Pks 

Employment Type: Regular Full Time 

Position Start Date: May, 2025 

Salary Information: Pay Grade GR-027: $51.70 to $56.27 per hour

Application Close: March 16, 2025

At the City of Vancouver, we are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. Indigenous peoples, people of colour, 2SLGBTQ+ persons including all genders and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.  Accommodations will be provided upon request during the selection process. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion. 

Before you click Apply now

Once you start your application you can save your work and leave the applications page, however please remember to submit your profile to the specific job requisition before the posting closing date.

In addition to uploading your cover letter and resume, part of the application process may include answering application questions related to the preferred requirements of the role which may take approx. 5-10 minutes. Cover letters should express interest and highlight additional information relevant to the position and resumes should include a summary of skills and experience related to the position.