Sr. Codes Inspector

Job Summary

This position is responsible for performing difficult technical and intermediate administrative work securing and maintaining compliance with ordinances and regulations relating to commercial and residential building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, fuel gas, green and energy conservation codes within the City. This is code enforcement work requiring the application of technical and specialized knowledge, methods and techniques to ensure compliance with codes, City ordinances and approved plans, permits and specifications. Incumbent makes independent field inspections, writes reports, correspondence and notices, gathers evidence, prepares cases and testifies in court when necessary. The position requires continuing personal contact with the general public, contractors, architects, etc. concerning construction code requirements. The incumbent's work has meaningful impact on specific cases and the work is done under general managerial direction.

Essential Job Functions

• Inspects residential and/or commercial construction to verify compliance with approved plans and applicable codes and specifications.
• Confers with and advises contractors, property owners, architects, and the general public regarding code requirements and solutions to problems.
• Conducts follow-up inspections to monitor compliance; and takes the appropriate action necessary in cases of non-compliance.
• Investigates and resolves citizen complaints regarding code violations including working without permits and substandard construction.
• Maintains up to date knowledge of construction methods, codes and materials by attending seminars and classes, by independent study and by internet instruction.
• Maintains accurate documentation records of inspection results for all types of permits.
• Accurately prepares violation notices and/or stop-work orders that are sent to property owners in order to obtain compliance with City codes.
• Issues orders and citations; gathers evidence, prepares cases for court/appellate consideration; and testifies in court as issuing officer and expert witness.
• Provides inspection assistance for after-hours emergencies to assess damage and authorize safe reconnection of electrical service to all structures damaged by fire
• Assists the supervisor with special assignments and in training of new inspectors when necessary.
• Reviews plans, issues permits and provides assistance to contractors and the general public when assigned.

Qualifications

High School degree; and five (5) years of progressively responsible work in building construction and/or inspection demonstrating broad knowledge of construction codes in the various disciplines under the Maryland Building Performance Standards.

Possession of at least three of the following ICC Certifications, or the ability to obtain within one year of employment:

• B1 – Residential Building Inspector
• B2 – Commercial Building Inspector
• M1 – Residential Mechanical Inspector
• M2 – Commercial Mechanical Inspector
• E1 – Residential Electrical Inspector
• E2 – Commercial Electrical Inspector
• Accessibility Inspector/Plans Examiner
• P1 – Residential Plumbing Inspector
• P2 – Commercial Plumbing Inspector
• Residential Energy Inspector/Plans Examiner
• Commercial Energy Inspector

Preference will be given to candidates with multiple ICC Certifications, Combination Designations, and Master Code Professional (MCP) Certification.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of The Maryland Building Performance Standards (COMAR 09.12.51) and its referenced Model Codes (International Building Code, International Existing Building Code, International Residential Code, International Mechanical Code, International Plumbing Code, International Fuel Gas Code, National Electrical Code, International Energy Conservation Code, International Green Construction Code, etc.), Maryland Accessibility Code (COMAR 09.12.53) and ANSI/ICC A117.1 Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities, Maryland State Rehabilitation Code.
• Knowledge of the City's zoning, and occupational ordinances and regulations.
• Thorough knowledge of the methods, materials and techniques involved in all types of building construction, repair and alteration and the ability to recognize improper trade practices which result in faulty, sub-standard or hazardous conditions.
• Ability to read and interpret all types of blueprints, construction documents, working diagrams and specifications quickly and accurately, and to compare specifications with construction in progress.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with building owners, contractors, residents and co-workers.
• Ability to communicate effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to operate computer systems and access databases.
• Ability to convey accurate explanations of various codes, ordinances, regulations and the reasons therefore.
• Ability to work with and train co-workers effectively, playing an active part in a team environment.
• Ability to work effectively as a team participant.