Construction Code Inspector (Plumbing)
City of Decatur, IL
Decatur, IL, USA
USD 33.02-36.03 / hour
Posted on Oct 7, 2025
Job Summary
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Starting Pay: $33.02/hour
Increases to: $36.03 /hour after six months
Join the City of Decatur as a Construction Code Inspector (Plumbing), where you'll play a vital role in protecting public health and safety through professional plumbing code enforcement. This position offers the opportunity to work independently in the field, collaborate with diverse construction professionals, and directly impact community standards across residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
If you're a licensed plumbing professional seeking a rewarding career that combines technical expertise with public service, this role provides both professional growth and meaningful community impact.
Enjoy a generous package of perks including:- Competitive Benefits: 14.5 paid holidays (including 2 personal days), paid vacation and sick leave, excellent health insurance, and a strong retirement pension plan
- Dedicated Health Center: Free check-ups, chronic care, bloodwork, immunizations, and many free prescriptions for employees and their dependents.
Key Responsibilities
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Code Enforcement & Field Inspections
- Conduct comprehensive on-site inspections of plumbing systems for new construction, alterations, repairs, and upgrades across residential, commercial, and industrial properties
- Investigate code violations and issue correction notices or stop work orders to ensure compliance
- Testify in hearings or court proceedings related to code violations or permit disputes as needed
Plan Review & Permitting Support- Review construction plans for code compliance during the permitting process
- Approve or reject work based on Illinois plumbing codes and local/state regulations
- Maintain detailed inspection records through the City's permitting and inspection software
Technical Guidance & Collaboration- Provide expert technical guidance to contractors, engineers, and the public regarding plumbing code requirements and safety standards
- Collaborate with building, electrical, mechanical, fire, property maintenance, and public works inspectors on multi-disciplinary projects
- Foster voluntary compliance through clear communication and professional consultation
Qualifications and Preferred Skills
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Required Credentials
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid Illinois driver's license
- State of Illinois plumbing license
- International Fuel Gas Code Inspector certification (must obtain within 12 months of appointment)
- Illinois Plumbing Inspector certification (must obtain within 12 months of appointment)
Technical Expertise- Comprehensive knowledge of plumbing systems, installation methods, and design review
- Working knowledge of International Residential Code (IRC) and International Building Code (IBC)
- Ability to interpret construction drawings and identify hazardous conditions
- Proficiency with computer systems and inspection software
Professional Competencies- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to explain technical concepts to diverse audiences
- Strong attention to detail and observational skills
- Sound independent judgment and decision-making in field conditions
- Ability to navigate difficult conversations with professionalism and fairness
- Commitment to consistent and equitable code enforcement
Working Conditions
This position requires regular fieldwork in all types of weather and terrain conditions. You'll work independently across various job sites throughout the City's jurisdiction while maintaining regular communication with the Building Official and departmental team.
Sponsorship for Employment
The City of Decatur does not provide sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B). To be considered for regular employment with City of Decatur, applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a continuous basis. More Details
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Examination Process
- Oral Interview Applicants must pass an oral interview with a minimum score of 70.00%.
- Veteran Points Applicants passing the oral interview may be eligible to receive 5.00 veteran preference points added to their final examination score.
- Seniority Points Applicable persons passing the oral interview will receive 0.50 seniority preference points for each full year of continuous City of Decatur AFSCME service. A maximum of 10.0 points may be added to the final examination score.
The City of Decatur is a drug-free workplace. This includes marijuana. Candidates will be subject to a pre-employment drug screen, physical exam, and background check post offer.
Residency
The Construction Code Inspector (Plumbing) position is covered under the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) collective bargaining agreement. AFSCME employees shall reside within 50 miles of the corporate limits of City of Decatur. An appointee may reside outside said limits but must comply no later than 90 days after the completion of the probationary period.
About Decatur:- Central Illinois: Discover affordable living with easy access to Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis.
- Land of Lincoln: Explore Abe's legacy with visits to the nearby Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Lincoln’s Tomb, and the family’s first Illinois home.
- Shopping and Dining: Browse locally-owned boutiques and specialty shops and savor diverse delights at unique restaurants and quaint eateries.
- Entertainment Abounds: Enjoy concerts at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, performing arts at Millikin University, and shows in the historic Lincoln Theatre downtown.
- Outdoor Recreation: Revel in Lake Decatur with boating and kayaking or explore the City’s 2,000 acres of parkland for golfing, walking, biking, dog exercising, or playing disc golf.
- Enriched by Art: Appreciate murals gracing city walls and sculptures stretching from the Scovill Zoo to the Children's Museum.
- Family Fun: Cool off at Splash Cove waterpark or head to Overlook Adventure Park for mini golf or the ropes course.
To Apply
Are you a licensed plumbing professional ready to make a meaningful impact in your community? This position offers the perfect blend of technical challenge, professional autonomy, and public service in a role that directly protects the health and safety of Decatur residents.
We encourage qualified candidates who value integrity, precision, and community engagement to apply today and become part of our dedicated team. Complete your application using the link below, making sure to include all requested information. Incomplete applications will be rejected. You may upload a resume to prefill sections, but it does not replace the required application.