Inspector (Electrical) Guide
Inspectors (Electrical), under general supervision, perform technical work in the inspection of electrical installations, repairs or alterations to ensure conformance to codes, standards, plans or specifications. They inspect electrical installations in connection with light, heat or power for buildings, parks, playgrounds, stores, bridges, docks, piers, or other structures, in the process of construction or repair, in order to insure compliance with the New York building and electrical codes; approve plans and specifications; make periodic inspections of electrical wiring in combustible occupancies and places of public assembly; inspect scenes of fires and accidents to determine whether the fire or accident was caused by electrical defect, or whether violations of New York City construction codes, electrical code, department rules, and other pertinent laws and rules are present; investigate complaints of defective electrical installations which are reported as fire, shock or other hazard; and issue verbal or written instructions for correction; explain, interpret and enforce electrical standards, and relevant laws and rules; issue violations, summonses, and stop work orders; appear as witnesses in court; prepare reports of inspections during the course of construction and at the completion of work; make special reports as directed; may supervise and train Apprentice Inspectors (Electrical); and operate a motor vehicle in the performance of assigned duties. All Inspectors (Electrical) perform related work.
SALARY RANGE
$57,717 minimum per annum (Current rate; subject to change)
DIPLOMA LEVEL
High School / Degree
OPEN WINDOW
Filing Scheds
Key Job Duties
What you will act and execute daily upon appointment:
- Inspect electrical installations in connection with light, heat or power for buildings, parks, playgrounds, stores, bridges, docks, piers, or other structures, in the process of construction or repair, in order to insure compliance with the New York building and electrical codes.
- Approve plans and specifications, and make periodic inspections of electrical wiring in combustible occupancies and places of public assembly.
- Inspect scenes of fires and accidents to determine whether the fire or accident was caused by electrical defect, or whether violations of New York City construction codes, electrical code, department rules, and other pertinent laws and rules are present.
- Investigate complaints of defective electrical installations which are reported as fire, shock or other hazard; and issue verbal or written instructions for correction.
- Explain, interpret and enforce electrical standards, and relevant laws and rules; issue violations, summonses, and stop work orders; and appear as witnesses in court.
- Prepare reports of inspections during the course of construction and at the completion of work; make special reports as directed; may supervise and train Apprentice Inspectors (Electrical); and operate a motor vehicle in the performance of assigned duties.
Filing & Appointment Eligibility
Candidates must fulfill these rules BEFORE certification:
- Pathway 1: Five years of satisfactory full-time experience as an electrician, designer, or inspector of electrical installations, light, heat and/or power distribution, traffic signals, fire alarm detection or communication systems; OR
- Pathway 2: Three years of qualifying experience as described in (1), PLUS either: (a) 60 semester credits towards a degree in electrical engineering or electrical engineering technology from an accredited college/university; or (b) Two years of full-time training in an acceptable electrical program in an accredited technical school; OR
- Pathway 3: Completion of an apprentice program, at least three years in length, in the electrical trade or electrical inspection and either: (a) two years of experience as described in (1); or (b) 60 semester credits or two years of education as described in (2); OR
- Pathway 4: A license as a professional engineer or registered architect issued pursuant to the New York State Education Law; OR
- Pathway 5: Education and/or experience which is equivalent to (1), (2), or (3) above.
- Deadlines for Requirements: Education requirement must be met by September 22, 2027 (Civil Service Law Section 54(2)). Experience requirement must be met by September 22, 2026. License needed to qualify must be obtained by September 30, 2026.
- Driver License Requirement: At the time of appointment, candidates must possess a motor vehicle driver license valid in the State of New York, to be maintained for the duration of employment.
- Medical & Drug Screening: Candidates will be medically examined to determine ability to perform essential functions and must pass a drug screening prior to appointment. Background investigation fee: $104.50.
- Residency: City residency is NOT required for this position, unless appointed after selective certification for Special Patrolman (SPP).
- English Requirement: Candidates must be able to understand and be understood in English.
- Proof of Identity: Under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, candidates must prove identity and right to obtain employment in the United States.
Computerized Examination Pattern
Multiple-choice test conducted at a computer terminal (score of 70% or higher required to pass). Evaluates inspection responsibilities, technical expertise, administrative duties, NYC Electrical Codes, tools and materials, determining causes of defects and corrective action, attention to detail, and judgment and decision making.
Physical Demands & Environmental Conditions
Physical activities performed and environments experienced in this role:
- Driving vehicles to and from inspection sites; walking to and from inspection sites and during inspections.
- Climbing and descending ladders and stairs to access inspection areas; standing for extended periods of time.
- Maintaining balance while walking over narrow walkways or elevated areas; climbing around and over various objects.
- Working in areas that may be damp, dusty, dark, smoky, or acrid.
Special Working Conditions
Operational environments and agency-specific criteria:
- Shift Schedules: Inspectors (Electrical) may be required to work various shifts including nights, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
- Driver License: Must possess and maintain a valid New York State driver license for the duration of employment.
- Investigation Fee: Fingerprint screening fee of $104.50 applies prior to appointment.
Filing and Application Fee Process
Apply online through the Online Application System (OASys) at www.nyc.gov/examsforjobs. Application Fee: $68.00 (paying by card incurs a nonrefundable 2.00% service fee; fee waivers available for eligible candidates). Admission Notice available on OASys Dashboard 14 days before testing starts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important Timelines
Application Period: September 2, 2026 – September 22, 2026. Application Fee: $68.00. Multiple-choice testing is expected to begin on Thursday, December 10, 2026. Admission Notice available on OASys Dashboard 14 days before testing.
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