Plans Examiner/Building Inspector

Technical work of a difficult and responsible nature in plans review and building inspection. Employees in this classification review and analyze permit applications, plans, building elevation drawings, and specifications for buildings. Inspection responsibilities include enforcing codes, laws, and ordinances regulating building construction and related structures within the City. An employee in this position works under the direction of Building Official and are responsible for review and approval of building permits issued by the department. The employee must maintain thorough current knowledge of building and related codes and be familiar with architectural and engineering principles as they relate to code compliance and design guidelines. The employee assists department staff in interpreting codes to other department personnel, other departments, architects, engineers, contractors, inspectors and the general public, and in conducting liaison between the City and outside persons in code matters.The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such duties are a logical assignment to the position.

• Reviews building permit applications and plans to insure that adequate information is submitted, including detailed information on plans, elevation drawings, and building specifications.
• Examines plans and specifications to insure compliance with applicable codes.
• Notifies applicants of code deficiencies.
• Assists contractors and owner/builders with determining appropriate modifications/alternatives to bring structures/plans into compliance.
• Schedules and completes inspections of buildings and other structures in the process of commercial and residential construction, alteration, or demolition and removal.
• Inspects projects upon completion for compliance with building, right-of-way, and other applicable ordinances, and conformity with approved plans and permits.
• Also inspects existing buildings and structures for compliance with Standard Housing Code, Unsafe Building Abatement Code, and other applicable codes and ordinances.
• Advises and confers with building contractors, engineers, architects, owners, and others regarding building construction and ordinances.
• Maintains official City records of buildings for which permits have been issued. Computes permit fees.
• Coordinates office activities related to the issuance of permits.
• Utilizes plans, sketches, and specifications for adherence to building requirements.
• Investigates violations or citizen complaints and enforces correction of any code violations.
• Completes inspection reports.
• Supervisory work in connection with plans review and inspection in the absence of the Building Official and Deputy Building Official.
• Performs related duties as directed when such duties are a logical and appropriate assignment to the position.

High school diploma or GED equivalent; supplemented by seven (7) years experience in the field of construction, building inspection, or plans review; or an equivalent combination of training, education and experience. State of Florida Building Plans Examiners certification required. Possession of a Florida Building Inspectors certification, or the ability to obtain the Building Inspector certification within two (2) years of appointment. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver's license without any restrictions. Thorough knowledge of the applicable Federal, State, County, or City Codes, ordinances or standards relating to construction and inspections.

Thorough knowledge of building construction methods, procedures, materials, and practices.

Considerable knowledge of those construction areas where it is most probable that there will be code violations or other building construction defects.

Skill in the review and interpretation of construction project plans, and the technical interpretation of applicable construction codes and regulatory standards.

Skill in written communications for the effective development and presentation of departmental reports and modifications to established codes and ordinances.

Ability to provide plans review and recommend/develop modifications as necessary to ensure overall project compliance with applicable codes and regulatory standards.

Ability to operate basic office equipment, e.g., computer terminals, printers, copy machines, telephone systems, facsimile machines.

Ability to read, update and maintain various records and files.

Ability to clearly communicate information both verbally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City employees, departmental staff and management, contractors, engineers, architects and property owners.