Senior Plans Examiner/ Building Inspector III

GENERAL PURPOSE

Performs a variety of working level, para-professional and technical duties related to conducting site inspections on residential, commercial and industrial buildings to assure conformity with established city codes and state and international building codes. This is a dual-role position responsible for ensuring compliance with building codes, zoning ordinances, and safety regulations through both field inspections and detailed plan reviews. This position plays a critical role in safeguarding public health, safety, and welfare by enforcing construction standards and facilitating the permitting process. The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with deep technical expertise, strong communication skills, and a collaborative mindset.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of the Building Official.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Provides general supervision to the Building Inspector(s) while in training or on a project-by-project basis. Assists Inspectors with code-related questions and interactions with contractors.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Building Inspection : Assists Lead Building Inspector to train new and current inspectors on uniform application of codes and enforcement. Helps mediate code enforcement issues with owners and inspectors. Answers questions from other inspectors.

Receives and examines building plans for compliance with uniform building code as to construction, building type, occupancy, fire protection, and location of lot; verifies plans to conform to city ordinances; makes corrections for errors on plans; discusses and explains ordinances and codes to concerned homeowners and contractors; assumes authority and responsibility for plan corrections as to conform to city ordinances and codes.

Determines building permit fees following established procedures for building type and size; issues permits for building, plumbing, electrical, sewer, water, heating, cooling and other construction phases as required by law.

Visits building sites or existing buildings to perform inspections including zoning, building setbacks, footing, foundation, framing, wiring, plumbing, ventilation, heating, and air conditioning to assure compliance to building codes and ordinances; inspects sites and/or buildings for bond releases and issues final approval.

Interprets regulations and codes to builders and property owners to assist them in altering construction plans to meet established standards.

Investigates alleged code violations; determines whether violations exist; and if so initiates proper departmental procedures to report the findings; prepares certification of the inspection. Works with the Neighborhood Improvement Division and Strom Water Inspector to help enforce regulations and codes.

Participates in pre-construction conferences as needed to coordinate involvement of local contractors, special districts, the city departments and local utilities as needed.

Operates personal computer and various software applications as needed to develop documents, charts, graphics, plan specifications and related materials. Use mobile devices and building inspection software to record inspection results, take photos of job sites, and send results to applicants and contractors.

Issues stop-work orders on construction deemed unsafe or construction that has not been inspected.

Participate in pre-submittal and pre-construction meetings to facilitate code compliance and streamline approvals.

Conduct field inspections of new construction, remodels, additions, and repairs for compliance with approved plans and applicable codes. Inspect structural framing, foundations, roofing, mechanical systems, electrical installations, plumbing, and fire safety components. Issue correction notices and stop-work orders when necessary and follow up to ensure timely compliance. Document inspection results and maintain detailed records in the permitting system. Respond to complaints and inquiries regarding building code violations and unsafe conditions.

Plans Examination : Review architectural and engineering plans for residential, commercial, and industrial projects to ensure compliance with applicable codes (IBC, IRC, IECC, NEC, etc.), ordinances, and regulations. Evaluate structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, energy, and accessibility components of proposed construction. Coordinate with applicants, architects, engineers, and contractors to resolve code-related issues and provide guidance on code interpretations. Prepare written review comments and maintain accurate records of approvals and corrections. Will assume a leadership roll overall plan reviews and oversight on permit intake.

Performs related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Education and Experience:

1. Associate's degree in construction management, architecture, engineering, or a related field (Bachelor's preferred).

AND

1. Minimum 10+ years of progressively responsible experience in building inspection and plan review.

OR

1. Experience in a municipal or county building department strongly preferred.

1. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Expert knowledge of building codes, construction practices, and permitting processes.

Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, specifications, and technical documents.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

Familiarity with permitting and inspection software (e.g., Accela, EnerGov, or similar).

Certifications:

1. Special Qualifications:

Must possess a valid Utah Driver's license.

Must be I.C.C. Combination Residential and Commercial Certified.

Additional certifications (e.g., Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Accessibility, Energy) are highly desirable.

1. Work Environment:

Tasks require a variety of physical activities not generally involving muscular strain. Physical activity and demands are frequent related to walking, standing, stooping, climbing, sitting, and reaching. Talking, hearing and seeing or other effective communication is essential to job performance. Mental application utilizes memory for details, emotional stability and discriminating thinking common to most job functions. Frequent travel required in course of performing portions of job functions and periodic exposure to seasonal weather extremes.