DEFINITION:

Under general supervision, performs the full array of duties assigned to classes in the Building Inspector series, including office and field work involving inspection, code enforcement and permit issuance; performs other related duties as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

The Building Inspector is the journey level class responsible for performing the full scope of assigned duties. Incumbents are considered skilled in making inspections, performing plan checks and enforcing codes and regulations in a broad range of building and related codes. The work requires independence and discretion in both field inspections and plan checks. This classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Senior Building Inspector, in that the latter is responsible for providing lead supervision and performing the more complex inspection assignments.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED:

Receives general supervision from the Senior Building inspector and/or other assigned staff. May exercise functional and technical supervision over assigned staff.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (include but are not limited to the following)

Performs the full array of duties assigned to classes in the Building Inspector series, including office and field work involving inspection, code enforcement and permit issuance.
Ensures compliance with applicable laws, ordinances and codes (including, but not limited to, building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and energy codes) and municipal codes to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the public; keeps informed of changes and new legislation pertaining to building codes and related regulations; issues standard construction and occupancy permits and approves final inspection certificates.
Conducts periodic residential and commercial field inspections before and during construction, remodeling or repair; ensures compliance with building and related codes and regulations; checks the safety of construction and installation practices; inspects the quality of materials and methods of construction for footings and foundations, excavations, wood framing, concrete work, steel erection, lathing, plastering, tile work, pools and spas, masonry, electrical, plumbing, and other construction work; makes final inspections to clear permits.
Interprets codes and regulations; explains required inspections and construction requirements to owners, architects, engineers, contractors and the public; advises owners on matters related to building permits; investigates and resolves building and related complaints; maintains records and files of inspections made and actions taken.
Abates homes and businesses and issues stop work orders and correction notices.
Conducts inspections of existing buildings to determine hazardous conditions; looks for construction or alterations being performed without proper building permits.
Prepares warning letters to negligent owners or contractors and carries negligent cases through prosecution in situations of non-compliance; drafts recommendations for changes in inspection related policies.
Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, state/local agencies, City management and staff and the public.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

Position requires sitting, standing, walking on level and slippery surfaces, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, stooping, squatting, crouching, grasping and making repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties. The position also requires both near and far vision when inspecting work and operating assigned equipment. The need to lift, carry and push tools, equipment and supplies weighing 25 pounds or more is also required. Additionally, the incumbent in this outdoor position works in all weather conditions, including wet, hot and cold. The position entails working in situations that may expose the employee to fumes or airborne particles, electrical shock or mechanical hazards. The nature of the work also requires the incumbent to climb ladders, drive motorized vehicles, operate in heavy vehicle traffic conditions and often work with constant interruptions.

Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.

QUALIFICATIONS: (The following are minimal qualifications necessary for entry into the classification.)

Education and/or Experience:

Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for a Building Inspector. Atypical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess the equivalent of five years of journey level building construction experience, and a high school diploma or equivalent.

License/Certificate:

Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license and a safe driving record. Possession of an I.C.C. Building Inspection certificate within two years of appointment is required.

KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES/SKILLS: (The following are a representative sample of the KAS's necessary to perform essential duties of the position.)

Knowledge of:

Modem principles, practices and methods used in various building construction areas, including plumbing, electrical and mechanical; operational characteristics and use of standard equipment used in building inspection and the building trades; building and construction standards and materials; construction materials and testing procedures; basic principles of mathematics; applicable federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations, including construction code manuals and specifications; standard office procedures, practices and equipment; modern office equipment, including a computer and applicable software; methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation and writing; proper English, spelling and grammar; and occupational hazards and standard safety procedures.

Ability to:

Apply policies, procedures, codes and regulations pertaining to building inspection; plan and prioritize daily inspections; read and interpret maps, sketches, plans, drawings, specifications and technical manuals; maintain I.C.C. certification through continuing education programs; keep accurate records; learn more complex principles, practices, techniques and regulations pertaining to assigned duties; implement, explain and apply applicable laws, codes and regulations; read, interpret and record data accurately; perform mathematical calculations quickly and accurately; organize, prioritize and follow-up on work assignments; work independently and as part of a team; make sound decisions within established guidelines; analyze a complex issue, and develop and implement an appropriate response; follow written and oral directions; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Skill to:

Operate an office computer and variety of word processing and software applications; and safely and effectively operate a variety of tools and equipment used in building inspection.

City of Lake Elsinore

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Building Inspector