DEFINITION:
Under general supervision, performs the full array of duties assigned to classes in the Building Inspector series, including office and field work involving inspection, code enforcement and permit issuance; performs other related duties as required.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
The Building Inspector is the journey level class responsible for performing the full scope of assigned duties. Incumbents are considered skilled in making inspections, performing plan checks and enforcing codes and regulations in a broad range of building and related codes. The work requires independence and discretion in both field inspections and plan checks. This classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Senior Building Inspector, in that the latter is responsible for providing lead supervision and performing the more complex inspection assignments.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED:
Receives general supervision from the Senior Building inspector and/or other assigned staff. May exercise functional and technical supervision over assigned staff.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (include but are not limited to the following)
- Performs the full array of duties assigned to classes in the Building Inspector series, including office and field work involving inspection, code enforcement and permit issuance.
- Ensures compliance with applicable laws, ordinances and codes (including, but not limited to, building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and energy codes) and municipal codes to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public; keeps informed of changes and new legislation pertaining to building codes and related regulations; issues standard construction and occupancy permits and approves final inspection certificates.
- Conducts periodic residential and commercial field inspections before and during construction, remodeling or repair; ensures compliance with building and related codes and regulations; checks the safety of construction and installation practices; inspects the quality of materials and methods of construction for footings and foundations, excavations, wood framing, concrete work, steel erection, lathing, plastering, tile work, pools and spas, masonry, electrical, plumbing, and other construction work; makes final inspections to clear permits.
- Interprets codes and regulations; explains required inspections and construction requirements to owners, architects, engineers, contractors and the public; advises owners on matters related to building permits; investigates and resolves building and related complaints; maintains records and files of inspections made and actions taken.
- Abates homes and businesses and issues stop work orders and correction notices.
- Conducts inspections of existing buildings to determine hazardous conditions; looks for construction or alterations being performed without proper building permits.
- Prepares warning letters to negligent owners or contractors and carries negligent cases through prosecution in situations of non-compliance; drafts recommendations for changes in inspection related policies.
Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, state/local agencies, City management and staff and the public.
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PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
Position requires sitting, standing, walking on level and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping and making repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires both near and far vision when inspecting work and operating assigned equipment. The need to lift, carry and push tools, equipment and supplies weighing 25 pounds or more is also required. Additionally, the incumbent in this outdoor position works in all weather conditions, including wet, hot and cold. The position entails working in situations that may expose the employee to fumes or airborne particles, electrical shock or mechanical hazards. The nature of the work also requires the incumbent to climb ladders, drive motorized vehicles, operate in heavy vehicle traffic conditions and often work with constant interruptions.
Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.