Construction Inspector (TLT)

General Purpose

The City of Kent is currently accepting applications for Construction Inspector (TLT) in our Public Works Department.  Primary functions of this position include the inspection of construction on multiple private construction projects and the review of materials to ensure compliance with various standards and regulations.  Communication and project management skills are critical for success in this position.  The ideal candidate will also have at least two (2) years of increasingly responsible civil construction experience.

This is a temporary, limited term position that is not represented by a union.  Funding for the position is set to expire in June of 2022, though there is a possibility it will be extended through the end of 2022.

**A cover letter and resume are required with your online application in order for your application to be considered complete.  Uploading your resume to auto-fill portions of the application does not automatically attach it to your application.  Incomplete applications will not be considered for this position.  Please note that you cannot attach documents to your application after it has been submitted.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding your online application, please call our office at (253) 856-5270 and we will do our best to assist you.**

Under the direction of the Construction Engineering Manager, Supervisor or designee, perform construction inspection of public and private construction and improvement projects; assure compliance with City codes and standards and contractual provisions of the projects.

Work is characterized by performing independent, routine and sometimes specialized technical duties requiring the ability to make decisions and take responsibility for such decisions.

Work is performed independently under minimal direct supervision.  Supervisor sets the overall objectives and resources available. Incumbent and supervisor work together to develop the deadlines, projects, and work to be completed. Incumbent is responsible for the work, plans and carries out the assignment, resolves most conflicts that arise, coordinates work with others, and interprets policies on own initiative in terms of established objectives. Incumbent keeps supervisor informed of progress, potentially controversial matters, or far reaching implications. Work is reviewed in terms of feasibility, compatibility with other work, or effectiveness of results.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Inspect public and private construction and improvement work to verify appropriate construction permits, quality control and compliance with plans, codes, and regulations.

Inspect the construction and installation of public works improvements and associated appurtenances including, but not limited to, streets, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, storm drains, sewers, signals, sewer and storm lift stations, water tanks, reservoirs, detention ponds, fire lines, water lines, water meters, pipes, and related utilities and structures as assigned.

Review construction site for erosion control measures. Monitors site run off and advises contractor of corrective measures according to established plans and procedures as needed.

Communicate with the public as necessary; investigate and resolve public works construction complaints and provide information needed for resolution of claims for damage against the City; communicate with City departments and personnel and outside agencies to coordinate efforts and exchange information.

Compile documentation required to verify compliance with City of Kent construction standards and engineering plan requirements.

Attend pre-construction and other construction meetings for private development projects.

Ensure compliance during the construction and installation of public works improvements and associated appurtenances including, but not limited to earthwork, asphalt and concrete paving, concrete flatwork, traffic signals, illumination, pump stations, water tanks & reservoirs, storm drains, detention ponds, sewers, water systems, channelization, flood control levees, non-motorized facilities, structures, etc. 

Calculate measure and document all items of work performed for contract payments.

Notify proper authorities when private development projects are ready for walk-through; inspect projects for completion of punch list items and for release of construction bonds.

Inspect work associated with private utilities.

Schedule laboratory testing of various construction materials (i.e. concrete, steel, asphalt, soil, etc.). Monitor quality control of materials.

Compile information and prepare construction reports, as required.

Check for the proper use and placement of traffic signs at road construction and work sites; review traffic control logs; report any observed safety issues including traffic, trench operations, etc. to appropriate parties.

Ensure all ADA regulations and guidelines are met and enforced to the maximum extent feasible.

Actively support and follow the vision, mission, values, and goals of the department and the City.

PERIPHERAL DUTIES:

Perform related duties as assigned.
 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• City codes and other applicable regulations related to construction inspection
• Construction specifications and plans; WSDOT construction manual; Standard Plans for  Road, Bridge, and Municipal Construction Methods, procedures, and materials used in road, bridge, and public utility construction
• Methods, procedures and materials used in construction
• Proper Public Works inspection methods
• Asphalt concrete paving
• Portland Cement concrete paving
• Math as applied to construction inspection
• Technical aspects of engineering and surveying
• Record-keeping techniques
• Storm, sanitary sewer, and domestic potable water construction
• Domestic potable water and irrigation conveyance systems
• Miscellaneous utility construction requirements

SKILLED IN:

• Interpersonal relations using tact, patience and courtesy.
• Oral and written communications.
• Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and vocabulary as it pertains to the position

ABILITY TO:

• Inspect construction and improvement project work to assure conformance to established standards.
• Do moderate physical labor including, but not limited to climbing down manholes, inspecting pipe, climbing water tanks, walking on irregular terrain, lifting off manhole lids, etc.
• Read, interpret and apply codes and laws.
• Learn materials testing procedures.
• Read and interpret construction drawings, plans and specifications.
• Perform required engineering computations.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Maintain records and prepare reports.
• Observe legal and defensive driving practices.
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.
• Work safely and efficiently.

Education, Experience and Other Requirements

Education:  Associate degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management or related field; and

Experience: Two (2) years of increasingly responsible public works or utility construction experience;

Or: In place of the above requirements, the incumbent may possess any combination of relevant education and experience which would demonstrate the individual's knowledge, skill and ability to perform the essential duties listed above.

LICENSES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
 

• Valid Washington State driver's license
• Must successfully pass the City's pre-employment driver's records check; successfully complete the City's Defensive Driving Course; and maintain an excellent driving record
• New employees must successfully pass the City's pre-employment substance abuse screening
• Complete a position relevant background inquiry