Sr. Building Inspector

General Statement of Duties

Performs inspection work to secure compliance with building, electrical, plumbing and/or mechanical systems codes. Works under the direction and supervision of a Chief Building Inspector.

Distinguishing Features of The Class

An employee in this class specializes in performing building, electrical, or plumbing, mechanical, and heating inspections. Work involves inspecting residential and commercial construction, renovations, additions, mobile homes and existing buildings to certify that work electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems, and associated materials and methods are in compliance with applicable codes. The employee has the responsibility for securing compliance with regulations when violations are found. Considerable tact, courtesy and firmness are required as the employee works independently in the field and has constant contact with contractors, property owners and the general public. Work is performed under the general supervision of a Chief Building Inspector and is reviewed for proper interpretation and enforcement of applicable laws and code requirements. This class is distinguished from the Building Inspector by the responsibility for performing inspections both in the area of specialization and one other inspection area, and may complete complex plans review work, and may assist the Chief Building Inspector in any administrative and/or management capacity. In the absence of the Chief Building Inspector, some Senior Building Inspectors must assume all duties, responsibilities, and regulatory authority.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Essential Duties and Tasks

Inspects various phases of building construction including footings, structural framing, design, materials, detail arrangement and workmanship to determine compliance with building and land use law.
Inspects new and existing wiring and electrical installations in residences, businesses and other buildings for conformance with safety standards, codes and ordinances; inspects electrical installations during construction and examines completed installations for workmanship and proper use of materials; issues electrical inspection certificates for approved installations.
Inspects heating and plumbing installations and fixtures on new or remodeled construction sites and examines for workmanship and proper use of materials; notifies responsible parties of defects found and re-inspects to determine if corrective measures have been made.
Reviews plans and specifications for compliance with building, electrical, and plumbing and heating laws and codes.
Assists and advises contractors, builders, plumbers, electricians and others regarding pertinent codes and regulations; provides information to the public concerning existing codes and regulations.
Discusses sub-standard conditions found with the owner, builder, and/or sub-contractor and explains the importance of adjusting the conditions voluntarily; conducts follow-up inspections and notes changes made; recommends formal actions for non-compliance when necessary.
Maintains records of inspections and prepares related reports.
Performs work during emergency/disaster situations.

RECRUITMENT STANDARDS
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Considerable knowledge of the methods and procedures involved in the installation and maintenance of plumbing, heating and cooling systems or electrical wiring.
Considerable knowledge of modern building construction practices, methods, and materials and of the stages of construction where possible violations and defects may be most easily observed and corrected.
Considerable knowledge of federal, state, and local codes and regulations pertaining to building, electrical, and plumbing and heating inspections and to the employee's level of certification in each area.
Ability to detect and locate defective workmanship in electrical and plumbing and heating systems and in building construction.
Ability to read and interpret plans and specifications and to compare them with work while in progress.
Ability to express code requirements clearly and concisely both orally and in writing.
Ability to deal tactfully and firmly with contractors, property owners and the general public.

General Statement of Duties

Work under the direction and supervision of an Inspections Field Supervisor.

Building Inspector 1 Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience

Graduation from High School and three years of experience in at least one of the specified trades (Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing areas), and the ability to hold at least one, Level 1 standard trade certification.

Special Requirement

Possession of a Level 1 State Inspection Certification in Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical within 2 Years. Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's License.

Building Inspector 2 Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience

Graduation from High School and five years of experience in at least one of the specified trades (Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing), level 3 inspection trade certification.

Special Requirements

Possession of a Level III State Inspection Certificate in the specified trade area(s). Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's License.