Building Inspector

JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible for various technical functions related to building inspections, including reviewing plans; conducting onsite inspections; assuring proper construction techniques permit compliance; investigating complaints related to building codes and property maintenance.

MAJOR DUTIES

Conducts inspections of new and existing structures. Ensures code and ordinance compliance; identifying violations; educating homeowners and contractors regarding construction techniques and procedures; answering code and construction questions; and maintaining and submitting all inspection records.

Reviews building plans for compliance with codes and ordinances.

Conducts erosion and sedimentation control inspections.

Interacts with a variety of individuals, both internally and within the community to provide information, disseminate departmental information, coordinates projects and assists in resolving administrative issues.

Completes related paperwork and required reports.

Prepares routine and non-routine reports; receives, sorts, and summarizes material for the preparation of reports; prepares work reports.

Maintains and upgrades knowledge, skills, and development by attending seminars and training programs and reading trade and professional journals and publications.

Reports administrative and/or operational problems to supervisor.

May serve as back-up for other positions within the department.

Issues stop work orders to ensure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances.

Performs related duties.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

Knowledge of applicable state, federal and local ordinances, codes, laws, rules and regulations.

Knowledge of building inspection policies, techniques, requirements, and procedures.

Knowledge of plan review principles and practices.

Knowledge of building construction.

Knowledge of geography of the City.

Knowledge of external governmental bodies and agencies related to area of assignment.

Knowledge of standard arithmetic.

Knowledge of record keeping, report preparation, filing methods and records management techniques.

Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.

Skill in conducting and documenting building inspections.

Skill in communicating with property owners, builders, contractors, and other parties.

Skill in reading, interpreting, and applying building codes in a variety of contexts.

Skill in oral and written communication.

Skill in reading, interpreting, and preparing blueprints and maps.

Skill in writing and explaining reviews of project plans.

Skill in preparing clear and concise reports, correspondence and other written materials.

Skill in using tact, discretion, initiative, and independent judgment with established guidelines.

Skill in researching, compiling, and summarizing a variety of informational and statistical data and materials.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The Chief Building Inspector assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include ADA standards, international building codes, local ordinances, state zoning laws as wells as city and department policies and procedures. These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

The work consists of various technical and building inspection duties. The correction application of standards and codes, which are subject to change with time, contributes to the complexity of the position.

The purpose of this position is to complete various technical functions related to building inspections, including reviewing plans; conducting onsite inspections; assuring proper construction techniques permit compliance; investigating complaints related to building codes and property maintenance. Success in this position ensures that construction is in compliance with adopted codes and ordinances.

CONTACTS

Contacts are typically with co-workers, other city personnel, contractors, property owners, developers and members of the general public.

Contacts are typically to provide services, to give or exchange information, to justify or settle matters, or to resolve problems.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, stooping, or walking. The employee occasionally lifts light and heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, and distinguishes between shades of color.

Work is typically performed outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee may be exposed to noise, dust, dirt, and grease. Work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, and gloves.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

None.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

High school diploma or equivalent required; and

More than one year of related experience required; or

Any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the work.

Possession of International Code Council (ICC) Level 1 Inspector certification or ability to obtain in 24 months.

Possession of a Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC) Level 1B certification or ability to obtain within 24 months.

Possession of a valid state driver’s license issued for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.