Building Inspector Apprentice

Position Summary

The Building Inspector Apprentice works closely with experienced inspectors who will provide on-the-job training and mentorship. This position will assist with on-site inspections of residential and commercial properties, helping ensure that buildings meet applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations. This role will provide leaning opportunities of the inspection of structural components, mechanical systems, plumbing systems, and materials for compliance. In addition, this position will also support the division’s daily operations by assisting with administrative tasks such as data entry, and record maintenance.

It is the goal of this position to develop the skills needed to conduct inspections more independently, review construction plans, identify code violations, and communicate effectively with property owners, contractors, Architects, and Engineers. In addition, you will respond to routine inquiries from the public regarding inspection procedures and permit requirements, while maintaining positive relationships with a variety of internal and external stakeholders.

Program Expectations

• Training will focus on developing foundational knowledge of building codes, permitting, and inspection processes. Learn to write clear and concise inspection notes and conduct various types of inspections independently.
• Assist in administering building codes, reviewing plans, and inspecting structures in accordance with the Minnesota Residential Code (Chapter 1309),
• Certification Requirement: Obtain the Minnesota State Limited Building Official Certification within two years of hire to remain in the program.
• Upon completion of the training program and successfully fulfilling the program requirements for training and certifications, the Apprentice could be considered for a Building Inspector position.
• This apprenticeship will be terminated at the end of three years if not hired into a Building Inspector position before that time.
  
  

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Accompany licensed inspectors for on-site inspections of residential and commercial properties. Perform building, plumbing and mechanical inspections of various types for compliance to applicable codes and city ordinances (independently after showing competence, anticipated time frame is 4 to 6 months for limited inspection types.
• Provide administrative and inspection support to building official, inspectors, and division staff.
• Respond to or assists with routine inquiries from the public, contractors, Architects, and Engineers regarding inspections and permit requirements while processing and maintaining confidential information.
• Assist in compiling detailed reports, database entry, log, and maintain division records.
• Assist in tracking the progress of construction projects to ensure work is completed according to the approved plans and building codes.
• Investigate possible code violations and help identify areas that require corrective action.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
  
  

Minimum And Desired Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED
• Specialized training in plan review, building inspections, code administration or related field.
  
  

Experience

Three (3) years of experience in related field or skilled trade that may include plumbing, carpenter, HVAC, but not limited to.

Licenses/Certifications

• Valid driver’s license
• MN State Building Official Limited Certification within 2 years of hire
  
  

Equivalency

An equivalent combination of education and experience closely related to the duties of the position may be considered.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Ability to use various tools (like measuring instruments, levels, and safety equipment) for inspections and maintain tools in good working order.
• Ability to independently study and familiarize yourself with state codes, city ordinances and zoning ordinances.
• Ability to participate in training sessions, seminars, and hands-on experience to acquire skills and knowledge needed for certification as a full-fledged building inspector.
• Ability to work alone or as part of a team on special projects, work committees, or assigned projects. (Electronic inspections, applications and review, record retention, etc.).
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to safely conduct inspections at, above or below ground level construction sites.
• Ability to deal with the unique diversity of personalities and special needs of customers in often tense and stressful conditions that require tact, personality, good judgment and technically precise answers delivered in a limited amount of time in a professional manner.
• Ability to research new technology, materials, methods and products that relate to construction.
• Ability to recognize and resolve conflict in a professional and tactful manner.
• Ability to provide a level of customer service that meets or exceeds Brooklyn Parks customer service standards.
• Ability to read and analyze legal descriptions, blueprints and building plans.
• Embrace and engage in cultural shift toward Continuous Improvement.
• Proven ability and demonstrated commitment to an inclusive workplace related to racial equity, diversity and inclusion.
  
  

Desired Qualifications

• Post secondary education related to the building inspections field.
• Certifications or licenses related to the building inspections field.
• Fluency in Spanish, Hmong, Russian, Somali, Lao or Vietnamese language(s).
  
  

Working Conditions

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully and safely perform the essential duties of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to fully and safely perform the essential duties.

• Core business hours are set by departments based on operational needs. Alternative schedules can be arranged, but must comply with the City’s Alternative Work Arrangement policy.
• Full- time, non-exempt, non-union positions with a flexible schedule to include a standard 8-hour day, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. Length of apprenticeship is a maximum of three years from date of hire.
• Prolonged periods of standing, bending, sitting, stooping, kneeling, and climbing.
• Conducting field work and property inspections in all types of weather conditions for extended periods of time.
• Possible exposure to hazardous equipment and/or contaminants.
• Office environment; exposure to computer screens; working closely with others, frequent interruptions.
• Must be able to lift and carry or otherwise move 10 to 50 pounds regularly/occasionally.
  
  

Background Check

The City has determined that a criminal background check and/or qualifications check may be necessary for certain positions with this job title. Applicants may be required to sign an informed consent form allowing the City to obtain their criminal history and/or verify their qualifications in connection with the position sought. Applicants who do not sign the informed consent form will not be further considered for the position.

Brooklyn Park is a thriving northwestern suburb of Minneapolis and the sixth largest city in the state with over 86,000 residents and 30,000 jobs. As the 11th fastest growing city in Minnesota, the city has become even more vibrant because of our remarkable racial and cultural diversity. Fifty-four percent of residents are people of color, 22 percent are foreign-born, and more than a quarter speak a language other than English.

Our Vision, Values, and Goals

Additional Information

Resume Requested: To help us evaluate candidates' education, experience and skills, we are asking all candidates to attach a resume to their application to be considered for this position.

Department/Division: Community Development Department/Building Inspections Division

Anticipated Hiring Wage: $35.22 - $36.65

Start Date: Start date flexible subject to candidate availability

We welcome applications from all individuals, including (but not limited to): people of all abilities, persons of color, veterans, LGBTQ and women. If you need these materials in an alternate format or if you have a disability-related need and need assistance with the application process, please contact Human Resources at either 763-493-8016 or via e-mail at humanresources@brooklynpark.org.

Regular, full-time City of Brooklyn Park employees (40 or more hours per week) are eligible for a benefits package including:

Vacation

• New employees generally earn 10 days of vacation per year
• Vacation accruals increase with longevity up to a maximum of 20 days per year
  
  

Sick Leave

• Sick leave is accrued at the rate of 12 days per year with unlimited accumulation
  
  

Holidays

• 12 paid holidays per year
• 1 floating holiday to be used any day in the year with supervisor approval
  
  

Health Insurance

• Employees may choose a health plan with an option to waive coverage if covered under another qualified plan
• The City contributes a portion to the cost of health insurance
• Available to City of Brooklyn Park employees working 30 or more hours per week
  
  

Dental Insurance

• Employees may choose between two dental plans with an option to waive coverage if covered under another qualified plan
  
  

Life Insurance

• The City provides term life insurance with an option for employees to purchase additional and dependent term life insurance at group rates
  
  

Disability Insurance

• Short-term disability insurance available at group rates
• Long-term disability insurance available at group rates
  
  

Retirement

• Public Employee's Retirement Association (PERA) pension plan (employer/employee contributions)
• Optional 457 pre-tax and post-tax (Roth) deferred compensation plans for tax-deferred retirement savings
  
  

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

• Reimbursement account for health care and daycare expenses using pre-tax contributions
  
  

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Employee Assistance Program provides confidential counseling and referral services
  
  

Fitness

• Free on-site fitness facilities; Wellness program and fitness classes offered
  
  

Direct Deposit (mandatory)

• Payroll checks are automatically deposited into designated account(s) on payday
  
  

Regular, part-time benefited City of Brooklyn Park employees (20-29 hours per week) are not eligible for Health Insurance, but are eligible for the following benefits:

• Sick and Vacation at a pro-rated rate
• Decreasing Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account(s)
• Deferred Compensation, if enrolled.
  
  

Seasonal/Temporary employees

• Temporary, Seasonal, and non-benefited part-time employees earn one hour of Sick Leave for every 30 hours worked by an employee, up to a maximum of 48 hours of Sick Leave per year.
  
  

Benefits may differ based on union contracts for employees represented by a collective bargaining unit. This summary is for information only and is subject to change or revocation without notice. This summary shall not constitute a contract or guarantee, express or implied.

01

Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?

• Yes
• No
  
  

02

Have you completed any specialized training related to plan review, building inspections, building code administration, construction technology, or a related field?

• Yes
• No
  
  

03

This position requires at least three years of experience in a related field or skilled trade (e.g., carpentry, HVAC, plumbing, framing, mechanical work, or similar). Do you meet this requirement?

• Yes
• No
  
  

04

If yes, please describe your related field work experience, trade and job duties.

05

Do you possess a current and valid driver's license?

• Yes
• No
  
  

06

Which level best describes your work experience in the construction field?

• Less than 1 year
• 1 year to less than 2 years
• 2 years to less than 3 years
• 3 years to less than 4 years
• 4 years to less than 5 years
• 5 years or more
  
  

07

How does the Building Inspector Apprentice fit in with your career goals?

08

Which of the below best describes your skill level using Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook?

• No experience
• Beginner: I use occasionally
• Intermediate: I use it daily for work, create documents/formulas
• Advanced: I assist/teach others as part of my work duties, create complex documents/formulas/pivot tables
  
  

09

The City of Brooklyn Park is a diverse community with approximately 64% residents of color, 25% foreign-born, and more than 25% speak a language other than English at home. Which level best describes your experience working with diverse populations?

• No experience
• Less than 1 year experience
• 1 year to less than 2 years
• 2 years to less than 3 years
• 3 years to less than 4 years
• 4 years to less than 5 years
• 5 years or more
  
  

10

Are you able to fluently speak, write, and understand any of the following languages? (Check all that apply)

• Spanish
• Hmong
• Russian
• Somali
• Vietnamese
• Lao
• None of the Above
  
  

11

If you are fluent in a language other than what is listed above, please list the language(s).

12

What is your connection with the City of Brooklyn Park?

• Current Brooklyn Park Resident
• Current Employee of the City of Brooklyn Park
• Active Member of Community Group in Brooklyn Park
• Currently enrolled in school in Brooklyn Park
• BrookLynk Alumni
• None Apply
• Other
  
  

13

If you listed other, please explain your connection to Brooklyn Park.

• Required Question