BUILDING INSPECTOR I

JOB SUMMARY

Performs a variety of routine and complex work in the interpretation and enforcement of adopted codes and related rules and regulations including the International Building Code, International Residential Code for 1 and 2 Family Dwellings, the National Electrical and International Plumbing codes and standards. Performs maintenance of Municipal Airport and city owned buildings as assigned. Exercises supervision over Community Service workers and temporary staff as assigned.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Periodically monitors or inspects an assigned area for violations of local codes.

2. Responds to complaints of potential code violations relating to signing, building occupancy, nuisances, hazardous sidewalks or other conditions, housing conditions, construction, land use, zoning, noise, dumping, clearing, grading, filling, polluting and/or other code related matters.

3. Conducts field investigations of potential violations, gathers evidence, questions or interrogates complainants, witnesses and suspects, compares facts to code requirements, makes findings and issues warnings, correction notices or citations.

4. Meets with owners, tenants, contractors, developers, businesses, etc. to review and explain code requirements and violations or potential violations, secures code compliance.

5. As assigned, drafts and distributes a variety of correspondence, memoranda, notices, flyers, brochures, media releases and reports relating to code enforcement issues and actions.

6. Provides information to persons who request information or assistance in code enforcement relates matters.

7. Maintains a variety of logs and records related to inspection and enforcement activities, prepares recommendations for amendments and additions to codes or regulations that relate to the position.

8. Coordinates efforts with the police, Community Development and related departments, the prosecuting attorney and other staff agencies as needed.

9. Works with police and prosecutors to obtain written or tape-recorded statements, depositions or admissions as needed.

10. Reviews cases being prepared for trial with emphasis on the evidentiary and legal issues crucial to successful prosecution. Prepares detailed reports of activities and investigations made, consults with prosecutors and prepares case reports for court action, testifies in court if needed.

11. Assists in obtaining, enhancing, preparing or presenting exhibits or other evidence in court as required.

12. Enforces building and plumbing related codes, including National Electric Code and local plumbing codes such as those for fire protection, sprinkling systems, fire hydrants, etc. Issues stop work orders, correction notices and citations if needed.
13. Performs on-site inspections of building, electrical and plumbing systems.

14. Performs residential rental property inspections, examining for compliance with the minimum housing standards.

15. Performs framing inspections, examining for compliance with building codes and regulations.

16. Enforces electrical related codes, including the National Electric Code and local electrical codes.

17. Performs electrical inspections examining for the right size of panels, correct uses, etc.

18. Maintains records of plumbing, electrical, mechanical and building inspection activities and complete related reports. Issues certificates and permits as appropriate.

19. Responds to complaints of potential code violations relating to nuisances, animals, noise, dumping, hazardous structures, weed lots, rubbish, rubble, polluting or other code related matters.

20. Other duties that may be assigned by supervisor.

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• Some knowledge of code enforcement principles, practices and methods as applicable to a municipal setting; Working knowledge of applicable laws, standards and regulations relating to various land use, nuisance and public safety codes; Working knowledge of inspection techniques; and
• Skill in operating the listed tools and equipment; and
• Ability to prepare, organize and maintain inspection field data, reports and systems; Ability to analyze complex situations, problems and data and use sound judgment in drawing conclusions and making decisions; Ability to comprehend and articulate complex facts and relationships in detail and to summarize and write clearly, concisely and legibly and to testify in court in an objective, concise and professional manner; Ability to produce or obtain reports, graphs, charts, photographs or the evidence or exhibits; Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with citizens, employees, supervisors and the general public; Ability to follow verbal and written instructions; Ability to handle stressful situations and effectively deal with difficult or angry people.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must possess a valid drivers license or have the ability to obtain one prior to date of hire;
• Five (5) years of experience in the construction field with two (2) years as a supervisor in charge of construction;
• Ability to obtain State of Texas International Plumbing Inspector’s License within one year of hire.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Personal computer, including word processing and database software, motor vehicle, phone, mobile or portable radio, copy and fax machine, electrical tester, multi-meter, Schmidt hammer.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work is performed mostly in field settings. Considerable outdoor work is required n the inspection of various land uses and other matters. Hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment. Work involves standing, walking, talking, hearing, using hands to handle, feel and operate objects, tools, and controls, and reaching with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Vision requirements for this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. The employee may be required to push, pull, lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds.  WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee often works in outside weather conditions. The employee occasionally works in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

Formal application, rating of education and experience, oral interview, reference check, job related testing may be required, drug screening, final selection and pre-employment medical examination.  NOTE: Appointees with be subject to completion of a standard probationary period. The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.