Building Official

Description:

This is responsible technical, administrative, and management work involving the planning, organizing, directing, and participating in the activities of the Inspection Division of the Community Development Department.

Work involves the direction and supervision of all the staff in the Inspection Division, which include heating, plumbing, electrical, housing, health, and building inspection services; reviews plans and specifications for all building construction or repairs to ensure compliance with all building and zoning codes and ordinances prior to issuing permits for such work to begin; performs inspection work; investigates and follows up on complaints regarding building, zoning, and other property related ordinances. Work includes considerable contact with the general public, contractors, and architects. Work is performed with considerable technical independence and is reviewed by the Community Development Director through conferences, reports, and observation of results.

Examples of Duties:

Directs and assigns all activities within the Inspection Division including the inspection of building construction, electrical installations, plumbing installations, heating and air conditioning installations, housing and health inspections.

Inspects buildings under construction, alteration, or repair for compliance with building or zoning codes requirements; inspects for adequacy of foundations, framing, or super structure, placement of structure on building site and conformity of the entire structure with approved plans.

Reviews and approves plans for commercial, industrial, and residential building; issues proper permits.

Inspects existing structures for dangerous conditions; recommends condemnation or other corrective action; investigates housing and building violations.

Coordinates activities with other City departments to ensure compliance with City codes and ordinances; enforces housing, building, and sign code regulations.

Maintains records and provides information on construction occurring within the corporate limits of the City.

Explains building code and enforcement procedures to interested parties; reviews plans and specifications with engineers, architects, and the general public.

Develops policies and procedures to carry out the work of the Division.

Prepares and administers the Division's budget.

Researches and introduces code changes for ordinance amendments.

Maintains a safe work environment for employees; develops standards and procedures for safe work practices; instructs employees on safe work practices.

Provides effective and efficient customer services and promotes and maintains responsive community relations.

Performs related duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications:

Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree with major course work in architecture, engineering, public administration, or a closely related area of study.

Requires ten years of experience working in construction, building trades, building design, or a closely related field; and five years of supervisory experience.

Requires any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following knowledge, abilities, and skills:

Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of building and construction safety, engineering principles and practices.

Thorough knowledge of applicable local and state building codes and standards.

Considerable knowledge of the methods, materials, and techniques involved in general building construction to recognize possible defects.

Ability to plan and supervise the work of inspectors and other subordinates.

Ability to interpret codes and ordinances.

Ability to read, understand, and interpret plans, diagrams, blueprints, and specifications accurately and assess adherence to codes and standards.

Ability to direct the administration of codes and regulations firmly, tactfully, and impartially.

Ability to express ideas clearly, both orally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City officials, architects, property owners, and the public.

Within one year of hire, candidates must possess certification from the International Code Council (ICC) as a Certified Building Official.

Possession of a valid Class D Illinois vehicle operator's license or equivalent license issued by the employee's state of residence.