Inspection Services Manager (Manager 2)

Full Job Description

The City of Seattle's Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) has an opportunity for a Manager (Manager 2) within the Inspection Services Division.

This position operates in a dynamic, fast-paced environment supporting a high volume of complex construction and site development projects across the city.

The Manager 2 role works collaboratively within SDCI, across City departments, and with external stakeholders to support efficient permitting, consistent code application, and the resolution of complex technical and policy issues.

This position helps ensure successful project delivery by verifying that field development work aligns with approved plans, civil and structural engineering designs, tree protection regulations, and City requirements throughout the construction process.

The role also plays a key part in administering and enforcing evolving tree protection regulations during construction, including oversight of impacts to trees on-site and on adjacent properties, in support of the City’s goals for equitable preservation and enhancement of the urban tree canopy.

Requirements

This position supervises staff responsible for inspections and related technical activities on a wide variety of construction projects which also involves grading, drainage, erosion and sediment control, tree protection, shoring systems, special inspections and site infrastructure.

The work includes verification of approved plans, application of engineering and regulatory principles in field decision-making, enforcement of City codes and standards, and significant coordination with project stakeholders to ensure compliance and successful project outcomes.

Key responsibilities include:

• Dispatch inspection requests to various district inspectors and as required, conduct complex field inspections.
• Apply civil engineering concepts related to stormwater management, slope stability, and site design in evaluating construction compliance and resolving complex field issues.
• Evaluate and monitor installation and maintenance of tree protection measures, including fencing, root zone protection, and soil preservation techniques.
• Review and make field determinations related to root cutting, grading impacts, and construction activities occurring near trees, often requiring balancing development objectives with regulatory and environmental constraints.
• Coordinate with arborists, engineers, developers, contractors, and other agencies to address complex site development, tree preservation, and construction challenges requiring multidisciplinary input.
• Review and approve field changes to construction plans, ensuring consistency with approved designs, engineering intent, and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct or support complex field inspections where conditions require advanced technical expertise, judgment, and risk assessment.
• Ensure inspection activities align with approved permits, construction documents, and applicable City standards and specifications within a high-demand development environment.
• Investigate and resolve complaints related to permitted construction projects, inspections, tree protection, code compliance, and field conditions, including issues with potential public and stakeholder sensitivity.
• Support the permit process by collaborating with internal and external partners to resolve technical and policy-related issues that may impact project timelines.
• Facilitate communication between inspectors and design professionals (e.g., civil engineers, geotechnical engineers, architects, arborists) regarding construction methods, materials, and compliance expectations.
• Oversee documentation and recordkeeping for permitted projects to ensure accountability and regulatory compliance.
• Lead, coach, and evaluate staff performance, including identifying training needs and supporting ongoing professional development.
• Develop and implement training programs to ensure inspectors maintain current knowledge of codes, standards, engineering practices, and evolving tree protection requirements.
• Create an environment of equity and inclusion by supporting the goals of the Race and Social Justice Initiative (RSJI).
• Perform other related duties of a comparable level and scope as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Requires four years of experience equivalent to a Senior Building Inspector (Expert) and two years’ supervisory experience. And / or any combination of education, training, and experience that provides an equivalent background necessary to perform the work of the class will be considered.

Work Environment / Physical Demands

Work includes both office and field environments. Field inspections are conducted on active construction sites and may require exposure to adverse weather conditions, uneven terrain, climbing, crawling, and proximity to construction equipment and hazards.

License, Certification, and Other Requirements

Current, valid Driver’s License or evidence of equivalent mobility.

Successful candidates will possess the following experience, knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Strong understanding of structural and civil engineering principles, including grading, drainage, stormwater management, erosion control, shoring systems and special inspections.
• Knowledge of tree protection regulations, urban forestry principles, and the integration of tree preservation requirements into construction and site development practices.
• Ability to lead and facilitate multidisciplinary teams in resolving complex technical, regulatory, and policy issues.
• Experience coordinating with engineers, contractors, arborists, and public agencies on construction and infrastructure projects.
• Skill in interpreting construction plans, specifications, and engineering and design reports.
• Effective written and verbal communication with staff, leadership, and the public.
• Ability to build shared understanding among diverse stakeholders and resolve conflict effectively.
• Experience developing work plans, project scopes, and schedules in a high-demand environment.
• Ability to work within SDCI’s organizational framework and values.
• Ability to work effectively within a multicultural workforce and serve a diverse customer base.

Additional Information

To be considered for this position, please submit the following with your online application:

• A cover letter in which you clearly describe how your knowledge, experience, skills, and abilities prepare you for the job responsibilities and qualifications outlined in the job advertisement
• A current resume outlining your relevant work experience

The full salary range for this position is $56.57 - $84.88 per hour. The targeted salary for this role has been identified as $78.76 per hour.

The Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections is a proud participant in the Race and Social Justice Initiative, a Citywide effort to realize the vision of racial equity.

We require a strong commitment to customer service and a demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse communities and cultures. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences; people of color, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

Job offers are contingent on the verification of credentials and other information required by the employment process including a pre-employment physical, a driving abstract, and a background check of conviction and arrest records in compliance with Seattle's Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17. Applicants will be provided an opportunity to explain or correct background information.

Benefits
The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans