Building Inspector

Building Inspector

The Building Inspector inspects new and existing buildings and structures to enforce conformance to building, electrical, plumbing, energy, and mechanical codes, zoning laws, and approved plans, local and state ordinances specifications and standards. Essential functions include examining plans, documents, and specifications to determine compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances for approval of building permit applications and determination of appropriate fees. The inspector also inspects residential, commercial, industrial, and other buildings during and after construction to ensure that components such as footings, floor framing, completed framing, chimneys, and stairways meet provisions of building, grading, zoning, and safety laws and approved plans, specifications, and standards. The inspector keeps inspection records and accompanying documentation for all permits and prepares reports for use by administrative or judicial authorities. They develop procedures and methods and provide input on forms and materials used in daily operations. The inspector interprets legal requirements and recommends compliance options, materials, and procedures to developers, contractors, craft-workers, and owners. They listen to and answer questions from the general public, contractors, architects, and engineers regarding permits and building code requirements. The inspector issues verbal and / or written statements in response. They investigate complaints regarding violations of code and attend board of adjustments and board of appeals meetings as well as other meetings as needed. Success factors include identifying the important dimensions of a problem, determining potential causes, obtaining relevant information and identifying alternate solutions that result in effectiveness. They display honesty, trustworthiness, dependability, and respectfulness at all times. They use an unconventional approach to challenges and opportunities. They display strong analytical and exceptional communication skills. They demonstrate sound time-management skills by effectively or efficiently organizing, prioritizing, and completing multiple assignments in a timely manner. They react to a work environment that will change day to day requiring quick departure, and reorganization of ones schedule. They are able to read, analyze, and interpret detailed blueprints, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. They are able to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. They are able to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public. They have knowledge of the general provisions of the international and uniform codes, state, federal, and local laws. They are able to read and interpret building plans and detect deviations from controlling requirements. They are able to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables. They work efficiently and safely with little direct supervision. They create and participate in a team environment. They contribute to overall City effectiveness by providing critical staff support to task forces and by participating, as necessary, in assisting all other teams. They are attentive to the City's standards for customer service, accuracy, quality, efficiency, and all City policies and procedures ensuring that all work performed and all staff members meet those standards while exhibiting consistent treatment of all staff.

Qualifications include a high school diploma or GED required. Certification from the International Code Council as a residential building inspector or ability to obtain within one year from date of hire. State recognized certification as a residential electrical inspector or ability to obtain within one year from date of hire. Three years of related job experience or a combination of three years education and work experience in a closely related field. Must possess a valid Iowa Drivers License and meet the requirements of the City's motor vehicle policy.

Physical requirements include the ability to climb different types of ladders and stairs. Ability to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl on construction sites. Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds occasionally. Ability to maneuver in undeveloped areas on uneven surfaces for up to one mile in various types of weather. Ability to sit for long periods of time and to maintain focus on project such as computer screen or detailed paperwork. Must be able to effectively communicate orally (in person and over the telephone and in writing using electronic devices and handwritten) in English with other employees, businesses, and community members.

Working conditions include outdoor work where heat, cold, precipitation, and the results of weather and nature may be encountered. Employee will be exposed to moving mechanical parts, high and precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock and vibration. The noise level in the work environment fluctuates from moderate to very loud. Position requires travel within and outside of the City, which imposes common travel hazards. Standard work hours will be Monday-Friday 8 : 00 AM-5 : 00 PM with additional evening hours as required. There is no residency requirement for this position.