Building Inspector I

Under direct supervision, conductsinspections of residential and commercial buildings to ensure compliance with building codes, safety standards, and zoning regulations. This entry-level position involves assessing construction projects at various stages, identifying violations, and providing guidance to contractors and homeowners.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

Building Inspector I is the entry class and is used for incumbents who do not possess the required certifications issued by the International Code Council (ICC) or have not had sufficient experience to perform building inspections independently.

Building Inspector II is the first working level class and is used for incumbents with the four (4) required ICC certifications and who are independently performing building inspections. Employees hired or promoted to Level II are expected to qualify for a Building Inspector III within two (2) years.

Building Inspector III is the fully qualified journey level class and is used for incumbents with the nine (9) ICC certifications who are independently performing the full range of building inspections and plan check duties, as well as leading and providing guidance for inspection teams on technical and regulatory matters.

Progression to higher levels of this series is based upon verification and approval by the Building Official that the employee meets the qualifications for the next level and will be assigned duties requiring use of the qualifications.

Performance of these functions is the reason the job exists. Assigned job tasks/duties are not limited to the essential functions.

1. Perform routine inspections of new and existing buildings for compliance with local and state building codes.
2. Identify potential safety hazards and code violations during inspections.
3. Document findings and assist with the preparation of reports for inspections.
4. Communicate effectively with contractors, builders, and property owners regarding inspection results and necessary corrections.
5. Assist in the enforcement of building codes and zoning ordinances.
6. Maintain accurate records of inspections and correspondence.
7. Attend training sessions and workshops to stay current with building codes and industry standards.
8. Assist customers in the office and on the phone as needed.
9. Respond to public inquiries and provide information on building regulations.
10. Represent the County with dignity, integrity, and a spirit of cooperation in all relationships with staff and the public.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: (KSAs are the attributes required to perform a job; generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education, or training.

Knowledge of:

• Basic elements of English usage, grammar, spelling and punctuation
• Principles of providing customer service to the public and to internal customers.
• Personnel and departmental policies and procedures.
• Building-related codes and ordinances enforced by the county.
• Basic principles of architectural and structural design and engineering mathematics.
• Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
• Major types of building construction, materials, and methods.
• Accepted safety standards and methods of building construction for commercial and residential structures.
• Operation of basic office equipment such as cell phones, fax machines, copiers and personal computers.
• Computer applications needed to perform the position.
• Standard office practices and procedures, including filing and the operation of standard office equipment; and
• Record keeping principles and practices.

Skill to:

• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Understand, interpret, and apply policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate records.

Ability to:

• Perform basic arithmetic calculations.
• Provide accurate information in person or over the phone consistent with the organizations policies, procedures and guidelines.
• Work independently or as a member of a team.
• Effectively organize and manage time.
• Follow instructions from supervisors or management.
• Perform inspections in various weather conditions.
• Climb ladders and navigate construction sites.
• Learn to interpret and apply pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
• Learn to read and interpret complex building plans, specifications, and building codes.
• Learn to determine whether construction systems conform to county code requirements.
• Learn how to apply technical knowledge and follow proper inspection techniques to examine workmanship and materials and detect deviations from plans, regulations, and standard construction practices.
• Prepare clear and concise reports.
• Learn to enforce applicable codes, regulations, policies, and procedures with firmness and tact.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education, Training and Experience: Any combination of training, education and experience that would provide the required knowledge and abilities. A typical way to gain the required knowledge and ability is:

High School Diploma or equivalent.

Required Certifications and Licenses:

Possession of a valid Drivers License at time of appointment and for continued employment.

OSHA 10-Hour Construction Training Certification within 15 days of employment date in accordance with NRS 618.983.

The following four (4) ICC certifications are required within ten (10) months of employment as a Building Inspector I (certification study time/testing provided):

1. ICC Residential Building Inspector (B1) OR ICC Commercial Building Inspector (B2)
2. ICC Residential Electrical Inspector (E1) OR ICC Commercial Electrical Inspector (E2)
3. ICC Residential Mechanical Inspector (M1) OR ICC Commercial Mechanical Inspector (M2)
4. ICC Residential Plumbing Inspector (P1) OR ICC Commercial Plumbing inspector (P2) Or IAPMO Plumbing inspector.

Humboldt County is an Equal Employment Opportunity provider in the services it offers.