Inspectors

An inspector in a DOB uniform
Three ITA graduates posing in their uniforms
An inspector looking over a Merry Go Round

The Department of Buildings offers career opportunities across six different inspection disciplines: boilers, construction, cranes and derricks, electrical, elevators, and plumbing. Our inspectors play a major role in the protection and safety of New Yorkers by ensuring compliance with the NYC Construction Codes, Zoning Resolution, and the New York State Multiple Dwelling Law.

Inspector positions have entry-level jobs as well as supervisory and managerial positions. Whether you're just starting out in your career, or you are an experienced professional, DOB would greatly benefit from your contributions and passion. See below for an overview of each discipline and the typical career progression of a DOB inspector.

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Boiler Inspector

Our boiler inspectors ensure the safe installation and operation of low- and high-pressure boilers and related equipment by performing inspections and audits. This position performs work in the inspection of the condition, design, operation and installation of steam boilers and other pressure vessels for conformity with NYC Construction Codes, Department rules, other pertinent laws and rules, and approved plans and specifications.

Infographic  showing the career progression of a Boiler Inspector, staring at a salary of  $61,800

Construction Inspector

This discipline begins as an Assistant Inspector and under close supervision performs work in the inspection of construction, repairs or alteration of structures for conformity with NYC Construction Codes, Department rules, other pertinent laws and rules, and approved plans and specifications, field surveys, and sweeps of work sites. They inspect the construction of new buildings and major alterations to existing structures for conformity to approved plans, applicable legislation and current safety standards.

As construction inspectors they respond to public complaints and interagency referrals regarding illegal construction, structural stability and the use of buildings throughout the five boroughs.

Infographic showing the career progression of a Construction Inspector, staring  at a salary of $52,100

Cranes & Derricks Inspector

Our cranes & derricks inspectors perform technical inspections of cranes, derricks, work platforms, and other hoist and rigging equipment for compliance with the NYC Construction Code and Department rules.

Infographic showing the career progression of a Cranes & Derricks  Inspector, staring at a salary of $72,100

Electrical Inspector

Electrical inspectors enforce the NYC Electrical Code and applicable national regulations, keeping New Yorkers safe. They also verify whether electrical installations are licensed or unlicensed, and whether any defective wiring is present.

Infographic showing the career progression of an Electrical Inspector, staring  at a salary of $61,800

Elevator Inspector

Our elevator inspectors ensure the operational safety, reliable service and lawful use of elevators, escalators, moving walks, personnel hoists, amusement rides, dumbwaiters, material lifts, wheelchair lifts, conveyors and other related devices throughout the City by performing and witnessing inspections and testing.

Infographic  showing the career progression of an Elevator Inspector, staring at a salary of  $61,800

Plumbing Inspector

This discipline begins as an Assistant Inspector and under close supervision performs work in the inspection of plumbing installations, repairs of alterations for conformity with NYC Construction Codes, Department rules, other pertinent laws and rules, and approved plans and specifications.

Plumbing inspectors regulate the plumbing trade by performing inspections throughout the five boroughs of new and altered plumbing, gas and fire suppression systems, including sprinklers and standpipes.

Infographic  showing the career progression of a Plumbing Inspector, staring at a salary of  $52,100

Eligibility for promotions is contingent upon meeting the following conditions:

  • vacancies are available
  • you meet the minimum qualification requirements (MQR) for the given position including civil service status when applicable
  • you submit a job application for the position you are interested in 
  • you are interviewed for the position; and
  • you are selected for the position.

Supervising Inspector

This position performs supervisory work in the inspection of buildings, other structures, and/or devices in the assigned discipline for conformity with NYC Construction Codes, Department rules, other pertinent laws and rules, and approved plans and specifications.

Assistant Chief Inspector

This position assists a Chief Inspector or another manager responsible for the management of an inspection unit and performs supervisory work in the inspection of buildings, other structures, and/or devices in the assigned discipline for conformity with NYC Construction Codes, Department rules, other pertinent laws and rules, and approved plans and specifications.

Chief Inspector

This position manages the works of a unit responsible for the inspection of buildings, other structures, and/or devices in the assigned discipline/s for conformity with NYC Construction Codes, Department rules, other pertinent laws and rules, and approved plans and specifications.

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