Sr. Building Inspector

SUMMARY: Under the general supervision of the Building Official, the Sr. Building Inspector will conduct inspections before, during and after construction for a variety of routine and complex technical work to ensure that all adopted codes and standards are met. The Sr. Building Inspector will conduct inspections to assess compliance with City ordinances, zoning regulations, development agreements, floodplain management, and contract specifications.   The Sr. Building Inspector will support the permitting process by reviewing and processing permit applications. 

• Inspects residential, commercial, and industrial structures for compliance with all adopted building codes, as well as Floodplain, Planning, and Zoning requirements including but not limited to the International Building Code, International Residential Code, International Mechanical Code, International Plumbing Code, International Fuel Gas Code, National Electrical Code, International Energy Conservation Code, Americans with Disabilities Act, City ordinances, and state and federal requirements.
• Examines Residential, Commercial, and Site Development plans in the field for code compliance with building codes, zoning and subdivision regulations, and the development process.
• Provides technical assistance to developers, architects, engineers, contractors, property owners, utility providers, and City staff on matters regarding codes, ordinances, the permitting process, accessibility standards, and permit fees; and suggests alternative construction materials and methods to meet code compliance when needed.
• Provides code interpretations and code enforcement for floodplain management.
• Completes inspection reports using permitting software, including documentation of all deficiencies with applicable code references.
• Performs Certificate of Occupancy inspections for new and existing commercial projects while coordinating with the Fire and Planning Departments.
• Reviews permit applications and plans for residential remodels, additions, decks, photovoltaic solar systems, minor electrical, and swimming pool projects.
• Reviews new residential plans and commercial plans when needed.
• Answers questions for customers and other city departments concerning permits, inspections, construction, and fees, and resolves customer complaints and concerns.
• Recommends changes to local ordinances, code amendments, and updates records to include new product information listings and alternate materials and methods reports.
• Performs MS4 compliance inspections.
• Performs landscape, irrigation, and backflow prevention inspections.
• Performs sidewalk and driveway inspections for ADA and city policy requirements.
• Evaluates existing buildings, on a compliant basis, for hazardous conditions and initiates abatement procedures per the currently adopted Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous Buildings when warranted.
• Assists customers in submitting applications and processing permits.
• Covers for other office staff as needed.
• Prepares and maintains records of plans, plan reviews, inspections, letters and reports prepared or used in connection with all building permits.
• Prepares and submits various reports regarding permits as needed.
• Attends meetings with City staff prior to applicants submitting site plan approval and/or building permits (predevelopment meeting) and workshops.
• Responsible for reading technical literature to keep current on codes and maintaining all certifications and licenses with continuing education.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

ABILITIES, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work effectively with the public, contractors, co-workers, and management.
• Ability to manage time and resources efficiently.
• Ability to effectively communicate through written and oral means using advanced conflict resolution techniques, active and engaged listening, and use of professional language.
• Ability to read and understand complicated plans, specifications, and blueprints.
• Ability to research, compile and summarize a variety of information and statistical data.
• Knowledge of ICC building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and energy construction codes and inspection procedures.
• Knowledge of carpentry, electrical, concrete, HVAC, and plumbing workmanship.
• Knowledge of building and construction materials specifications and tolerances.
• Skill in the operation of a personal computer, tablet, and phone, including use of the software My Government Online, Word, Excel, Outlook, and Bluebeam.
• Skill in using a tape measure, level, wire gauge, tree caliper, probe rod, and other inspection tools as necessary.
• Skill in applying knowledge of adopted building codes, state and federal laws, and zoning requirements to assess conditions found in the field to recognize substandard, faulty, or hazardous conditions and materials.

 
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• High School diploma or equivalent

• TSBPE Plumbing Inspector License or ability to obtain within 12 months of hiring
• Must possess the following criteria:
  •  Two ICC inspectors’ Certification; or

  • A trade license, and one ICC inspector’s Certification; or

  • Two years as an Inspector and the ability to obtain two ICC certifications is 12 months.

PREFERENCES:

• ICC Building, Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Inspector certification(s).
• Vocational/Technical degree and/or a Plumbing Trade license.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work is mostly performed in an outdoor construction site environment and inside an office.
• The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• The employee is regularly required to stand; sit; walk; talk; or hear; use of hands to finger, handle, feel, or operate objects, tools or controls; and reach with hand and arms. The employee may be required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Subject to outside weather conditions such as wet and/or humid conditions, extreme heat, and/or extreme cold.