Building Inspector - Code Enforcement

Be a part of building the future of Lake Forest.

This full-time entry to mid level Inspector position plays a key role in the Citys Community Development Department. The Community Development Department is responsible for managing and guiding growth and change and for maintaining the communitys unique character, visual appeal, and quality of life all in a manner consistent with the plans, policies and regulations adopted by the City Council.

The Community Department is comprised of a dedicated group of professionals: inspectors, plan reviewers, planners, technicians, and administrative assistants who all work together and respect and support each other on a daily basis.

The Department works with residents, property owners, contractors, architects, business owners and real estate professionals to help them achieve their goals. We are allies to our customers, helping them to understand applicable regulations and assisting in moving projects quickly and smoothly through the review and inspection processes to successful completion, and working to resolve Code violations and neighbor disputes in a respectful manner that balances all parties interests.

The Community Development Department is a customer service driven team serving as an ally, not an obstacle, to our customers. Staff in the Department play a critical role in managing the high volume of activity in a customer friendly manner and work to support co-workers as we manage a significant work load in a fast paced environment.

This position offers opportunities for growth and advancement. Training is offered and expected on an ongoing basis and Building Inspectors are required to obtain Certifications as determined to be necessary by Department leadership.

Learn more about the Community Development department in the Lake Forest Love story, " Inspector Keeps City Buildings Running Smoothly ".

Starting Salary Range: $77,648 $87,675 Depending on Qualifications

Full Salary Range : $77,648 - $107,730 Annual Progression Based on Merit

Full Benefits Package

Open Until Filled

Interact with the public and provide customer service in person, on site, by phone and at the front counter on a daily basis. Collaborate with your colleagues in the Community Development Department. A typical day may include:

• Responding to complaints about property maintenance, work proceeding without permits or inspections, and following up on various Code compliance issues.
• Conducting site inspections, indoors and outdoors, on a daily basis to ensure compliance with the City Code and approved plans.
• Conducting pre-home sale Inspections to identify cross connections between storm and sanitary sewers.
• Preparing Notices of Violation, citations, and other notices advising of the need for corrective action in a timely manner.
• Negotiating and mediating difficult situations professionally and effectively.
• Attending Administrative Hearings and coordinating with the City Prosecutor to resolve Code violations.
• Assisting colleagues throughout the Department with various projects from daily tasks to special projects.
• Studying Code Enforcement, Building and Life Safety Codes and preparing for Certification tests as determined to be appropriate in consultation with your supervisor.

• Strong interpersonal skills, the ability to negotiate and problem solve professionally and respectfully.
• Familiarity with property maintenance and construction generally.
• Ability to prepare notices and citations using clear and simple language.
• Willingness to build skills on the job working with other inspectors, plan reviewers and other department staff.
• Ability to understand Code requirements and make reasonable interpretations recognizing unique situations and using common sense and creative approaches to achieve the intent, if not always the letter, of the Code.
• Willingness to study for and obtain Certifications from the International Codes Council in one or more areas as directed.
• Confidence and the ability to work collaboratively with others: contractors, builders, homeowners, business owners and colleagues, with the goal of resolving issues and moving projects forward.
• Comfort with technology and the willingness to learn and fully utilize the various tools available.
• Interest in continuous learning and development.

Excellent benefits package of employer funded and voluntary benefits

• BCBSIL PPO and HMO insurance options, Delta Dental, and VSP Vision Insurance
• 40 hours of vacation time and 48 hours of sick time front-loaded to employees and available for immediate use
• Vacation, Sick, Floating Holidays, Emergency Leave, and Paternity Leave Available
• 457 and RHS accounts through Mission Square
• Pension funded by IMRF
• Education Reimbursement, Employee Assistance Programs, Legal Shield and Norton LifeLock Discounts, Public Service Loan Forgiveness
• $50,000 Guaranteed Life Insurance for employees through Securian, Supplemental available for employees, spouse, and children

Starting Salary Range: $77,648 $87,675 Depending on Qualifications

Full Salary Range: $77,648 - $107,730 Annual Progression Based on Merit

Full Benefits Package

Open Until Filled

The City of Lake Forest is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, disability, age, ethnicity, national origin, sex, gender, LGBTQ identification, family status, or military status. Women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply.