Part-time Building Inspector

Department: Building Department Classification: Part-Time Reports To: Building Director FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the general supervision of the Building Director, the Part-Time Building Inspector performs inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial construction to ensure compliance with applicable building codes, Township ordinances, approved plans, permits, and State of Michigan requirements.

The Building Inspector works with contractors, property owners, developers, architects, engineers, Township staff, and other agencies to promote safe and code-compliant construction throughout the Township.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conducts building inspections for residential, commercial, industrial, and other construction projects within the Township.
• Inspects new construction, additions, alterations, renovations, repairs, demolitions, accessory structures, decks, and other permitted construction.
• Performs required inspections at various stages of construction, including footing, foundation, framing, insulation, final, and other inspections as applicable.
• Inspects structural components and construction materials to determine compliance with applicable building codes, approved plans, specifications, permits, and Township ordinances.
• Verifies that construction is being completed in accordance with approved construction documents and applicable code requirements.
• Identifies code violations, construction deficiencies, and potentially unsafe conditions and communicates required corrections to contractors, property owners, and other responsible parties.
• Approves work that meets applicable requirements and performs follow-up inspections when corrections are necessary.
• Reviews building plans, specifications, permit applications, site information, and related construction documents as assigned.
• Maintains accurate inspection records, reports, notes, photographs, and other documentation within the Township's permitting and recordkeeping systems.
• Responds to questions from contractors, residents, property owners, developers, architects, engineers, and Township staff regarding building code and inspection requirements.
• Coordinates inspections and code-related matters with electrical, plumbing, mechanical, fire, planning, engineering, assessing, public services, and other Township personnel when necessary.
• Investigates complaints involving building construction, unsafe structures, code violations, or construction performed without required permits.
• Conducts inspections related to certificates of occupancy and verifies completion of applicable building requirements.
• Assists with identifying unsafe or dangerous structures and documents conditions for further action by the Building Official when necessary.
• Provides professional and courteous customer service while consistently and fairly enforcing applicable codes and ordinances.
• Keeps current on changes to building codes, construction standards, state requirements, and industry practices.
• Attends meetings, training, and continuing education as required.
• May provide testimony or documentation related to code enforcement matters when required.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Thorough knowledge of building construction methods, materials, practices, and terminology.
• Knowledge of applicable building codes and State of Michigan requirements.
• Knowledge of residential and commercial construction practices, including foundations, framing, structural components, means of egress, fire-resistance requirements, and other building systems.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural and structural plans, drawings, specifications, permits, and technical documents.
• Ability to compare construction in the field with approved plans and applicable code requirements.
• Ability to identify building code violations, construction deficiencies, and potentially hazardous conditions.
• Ability to interpret and consistently apply codes, ordinances, policies, and regulations.
• Ability to communicate code requirements and necessary corrections clearly and professionally.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment when addressing construction and code compliance issues.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with contractors, residents, property owners, developers, architects, engineers, and Township employees.
• Ability to maintain accurate inspection records and prepare clear written documentation.
• Ability to work independently and effectively manage an assigned inspection schedule.
• Basic computer skills and the ability to use electronic permitting, inspection, email, and recordkeeping systems.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED.
• Considerable experience in building construction, inspection, skilled trades, construction management, or a closely related field.
• Must meet all State of Michigan requirements necessary to perform building inspections for a governmental subdivision.
• Must possess and maintain any registration, certification, or licensing required by the State of Michigan for the position.
• Valid Michigan driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to successfully complete any background investigation or other pre-employment requirements established by the Township.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous experience performing building inspections for a municipality or other governmental agency.
• Experience interpreting and enforcing state building and construction codes.
• Experience reviewing residential and commercial construction plans.
• Knowledge of zoning, property maintenance, and other municipal codes and ordinances related to construction.
• Experience working with municipal permitting and inspection software.
• Experience working directly with contractors, builders, developers, architects, engineers, and the public.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

The position requires the ability to perform inspections at active construction sites and other locations throughout the Township. Duties may require standing and walking for extended periods, climbing stairs and ladders, bending, kneeling, reaching, and accessing unfinished, elevated, or confined areas as necessary to conduct inspections.

The employee may be required to navigate uneven terrain, excavations, foundations, scaffolding, unfinished structures, and other active construction environments.

The employee may be exposed to construction-related hazards, dust, dirt, noise, inclement weather, construction equipment, varying temperatures, and other conditions commonly associated with active construction sites. Appropriate safety precautions and personal protective equipment must be used when required.

WORK SCHEDULE

This is a part-time position. Work hours will be established based on the operational needs of the Building Department and inspection workload. The employee must have sufficient scheduling flexibility to perform inspections during normal Township business hours and attend required meetings or training.

GENERAL STATEMENT

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties and responsibilities may be modified or assigned as necessary based on the operational needs of the Township.

The Township is an Equal Opportunity Employer.