Housing Authority Inspector in Syracuse, New York at Syracuse Housing Authority

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The work involves responsibility for inspecting subsidized housing units, specifically within the Pioneer Homes community, owned and/or managed by the Syracuse Housing Authority (SHA) to ensure compliance with HUD requirements and SHA lease requirements. This position is unique in that it focuses exclusively on Pioneer Homes and supports SHA’s strategic goals of timely maintenance, habitability, early intervention, and resident wellbeing.

The Inspector will conduct routine and follow-up inspections with a focus on resolving maintenance and pest control issues, identifying unreported problems, and enforcing lease compliance. This role will coordinate in real time with SHA’s Resident Support Services (RSS) team, contribute to relocation readiness, and help reduce resident complaints and concerns. While this position will collaborate with SHA’s central inspections team to maintain consistency, it serves a specialized role tailored to Pioneer’s needs. Employees in this class work under the general supervision of a higher-level employee. Supervision is not a responsibility of this class. Certain assignments require reasonable access to transportation to meet fieldwork obligations efficiently. Does related work as required.

Full Salary - $45,791 - $58,363

Hiring Salary - $45,791 - $52,962

This position is an Open-Competitive Onondaga County Civil Service position and if hired, continued employment will be contingent on qualifying for, successfully passing, and reachability off the applicable Onondaga County Civil Service Exam.

After a conditional offer of employment, a favorable background check, verification of education and work history, and illegal drug screening must be completed prior to starting employment. Proof of identity and legal work authorization will also be required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

• Conducts initial, follow-up, and focused inspections of public housing units within Pioneer Homes to confirm completion of work orders and resolution of pest and maintenance issues.
• Identifies early signs of maintenance deficiencies and pest activity through routine inspections, even in the absence of reported issues.
• Inspects for lease compliance, particularly conditions involving hoarding, housekeeping, life safety concerns, and unreported household members.
• Performs follow-up inspections, especially 10 days after initial visits, to ensure corrective action has been taken.
• Coordinates immediately with Resident Support Services to connect residents with needed assistance related to health, safety, or habitability.
• Supports redevelopment relocation readiness efforts by identifying and addressing issues that could delay future moves.
• Helps reduce resident complaints and concerns by establishing a visible, responsive inspection presence within the community.
• Maintains inspection records using housing inspection software on a laptop or tablet.
• Maintains files and documentation relevant to inspection and leasing activities.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Good knowledge of inspection procedures to evaluate structural, mechanical, and environmental safety in public housing units.
• Good knowledge of building components and systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and appliances.
• Familiarity with HUD NSPIRE-related requirements for life safety and habitability.
• Ability to detect issues through physical inspection, even when not reported by residents.
• Ability to address lease compliance issues professionally and tactfully.
• Ability to operate a laptop and inspection software to enter and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to maintain well-organized documentation and communicate effectively with residents and staff.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to coordinate with internal departments to address resident needs.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

A. Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with an Associate Degree in Architecture Technology, Building Construction Technology or a closely related field; or,
B. Two (2) years of work experience, or its part-time equivalent, in the inspection, construction, or repair of buildings.

SPECIAL NECESSARY REQUIREMENT

When required to operate motor vehicles, employees must possess a valid Non-CDL or CDL with appropriate endorsements as required by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles for the class of vehicle(s) being operated.