Code Enforcement/Building Inspector - Full-time

The City of Arkansas City is seeking a detail-oriented, professional, and people-focused Code Enforcement Officer/Building Inspector to conduct building inspections and enforcement of property maintenance and nuisance codes for the Community Development Division. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys collaboration and working with the public to protect public health, safety, and neighborhood quality.

 At the City of Arkansas City, we offer an outstanding benefits package that includes health and dental coverage, KPERS retirement benefits, paid time off, holidays, and opportunities for growth and development.

Please see excerpts of the Code Enforcement Officer/Building Inspector job description below.

Essential Functions include the following. 

Inspections & Code Compliance

1. Conduct inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial structures to ensure compliance with adopted building, property maintenance, and safety codes.
2. Perform permit-related inspections and assist with plan reviews.
3. Identify code violations, unsafe conditions, and non-compliant construction practices.
4. Verify corrective actions and re-inspect properties to confirm compliance.

Code Enforcement & Abatement

1. Investigate complaints related to property maintenance, nuisance conditions, and zoning-related violations.
2. Issue notices of violation, orders to correct, and related enforcement documentation.
3. Coordinate abatement actions, re-inspections, and compliance timelines.
4. Identify and document zoning violations.

Documentation & Systems Management

1. Prepare accurate inspection reports, violation notices, and case documentation.
2. Maintain inspection logs, enforcement records, photographs, and correspondence.
3. Enter data into permitting, inspection, and code enforcement systems in a timely and accurate manner.

Public Interaction & Education

1. Communicate inspection findings, code requirements, and corrective actions clearly and professionally to property owners, contractors, and residents.
2. Participate in neighborhood sweeps, educational outreach, and compliance initiatives.
3. Respond to citizen inquiries with professionalism and consistency.

Coordination & Professional Standards

1. Coordinate with other departments as needed.
2. Attend training and maintain required certifications.
3. Comply with all City policies, safety standards, and ethical requirements.
4. Perform related duties as assigned.

Position Requirements and Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Position Requirements:

1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Three (3) years of experience in building inspection, construction, code enforcement, or a closely related field.
3. Ability to obtain required ICC certification(s) within 12 months of hire.
4. Any combination of the above as determined appropriate by the employer.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Technical training or associate degree in Construction Technology, Building Inspection, or related field.
2. Experience working in a municipal or regulatory environment.
3. Prior experience with property maintenance, nuisance abatement, or zoning-related enforcement.
4. Additional ICC certifications (Residential, Commercial, Property Maintenance).

Certifications / Licenses:

Skills/Knowledge/Abilities:

Technical & Regulatory Knowledge

1. Knowledge of adopted building, property maintenance, and safety codes.
2. Understanding of construction methods, materials, and inspection practices.
3. Ability to read and interpret construction plans, specifications, and technical documents.

Enforcement Judgment & Conflict Management

1. Ability to apply codes consistently, fairly, and defensibly.
2. Strong conflict resolution and de-escalation skills.
3. Ability to exercise sound judgment in field enforcement situations.

Communication & Public Service

1. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
2. Ability to explain technical and regulatory requirements to non-technical audiences.
3. Professional demeanor when interacting with property owners, contractors, and residents.

Documentation & Technology

1. Proficiency with inspection, permitting, and code enforcement software.
2. Ability to maintain accurate, complete, and legally defensible records.
3. Familiarity with mobile inspection tools and digital documentation.

Professionalism & Independence

1. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
2. Strong time management and organizational skills.
3. Commitment to safety, ethical conduct, and public service values.

Work Environment and Physical Demands: 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, and must be able to hear and understand information. The position frequently requires standing, walking, climbing, bending, kneeling, reaching, and working in and around buildings, rooftops, crawlspaces, and construction sites. The employee regularly uses hands and fingers to operate inspection tools, testing devices, mobile devices, and standard office equipment.

The employee frequently lifts and/or moves items weighing up to 25 pounds and may occasionally lift heavier objects with assistance or mechanical aids. Vision abilities required include close vision for reading plans, meters, and documentation; distance vision for evaluating structures and sites; peripheral vision; and the ability to adjust focus.

Must successfully pass a background check, drug screen, physical exam and essential functions test.

Normal Work Hours: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Mon.-Fri.

Application Deadline: Open until filled

All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the United States and proof of eligibility must be provided if selected for hire.

The City of Arkansas City is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any status protected by federal, state, or local law. All employment decisions are made without regard to protected status and are based on merit, qualifications, and business necessity.

 Applicants with disabilities who require assistance in the hiring process should email the Human Resources Division at mmcfarland@arkansascityks.gov or call (620) 441-4405 for more information.