Job Description

JOB TITLE: BUILDING COMMISSIONER

DEPARTMENT: BUILDING INSPECTIONS

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: FULL-TIME/EXEMPT

UNION/NON-UNION: NON-UNION

The Building Commissioner performs administrative, supervisory, and inspection work related to the interpretation and enforcement of the state building code, local zoning ordinances, City ordinances, and all other applicable rules and regulations as required.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, bilingualists, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Responsibilities

Plans, directs, coordinates and administers the activities of the Inspections Department, which includes the activities of the electrical, plumbing, gas inspectors, and sealer of weights and measures.
Prepares and manages the annual budget for the Inspection Services Department;
Oversees the maintenance of departmental records and departmental correspondence.
Prepares and implements department policies and procedures; goals and objectives;
Leads, supervises, and evaluates department personnel; establishes performance expectations and ensures appropriate staffing levels; conducts annual performance reviews and implements progressive discipline standards when necessary or required.
Reviews plans for building construction or alteration to determine compliance with state codes, local zoning by-laws and other applicable regulations; issues building permits, maintains associated logs and inspection records.
Issues certificates of inspection, certificates of occupancy, notices of violations and stop work orders. Receives applications and inspects new and existing buildings and structures to determine compliance with applicable building codes, local by-laws/ordinances and approved plans and permits.
Ensures that all zoning requirements and requirements of other applicable by-laws are met and permits are obtained from all appropriate City boards/commissions before the issuance of a building permit.
Ensures Department response to all emergency situations regarding building safety, including but not limited to fires, explosions, building collapses, natural disasters and buildings otherwise unsafe for occupancy; Ensures availability of qualified department personnel at all times, responding in person if other staff is not available.
Investigates complaints of buildings, structures, and vacant lands to determine compliance with applicable codes and by-laws. Issues citations and appears in court when needed, works with the City legal team pertaining to letters and notices. Acts as Co-ADA Coordinator for City and serves on the Commission on Disabilities.
Responds orally and in writing to inquiries from property owners, commercial firms, the general public, and employees; explains building code regulations and by-law provisions and explains procedures/policies.
Consults with builders, engineers, property owners, attorneys and the general public regarding construction requirements, materials, methods and other related matters. Reviews all zoning complaints, writes letters, issues citations, conducts site visits, takes pictures and logs information.
Inspects commercial buildings and alterations to commercial buildings under construction and upon completion monitors compliance with code requirements and approved plans; inspects all construction projects, commercial buildings, new homes, additions, garages, decks, sheds, etc. Inspects safety conditions of existing buildings; inspects places of assembly and public buildings annually.
Attends meetings of the City Council and other City Council subcommittees, boards, and commissions as needed.
Issues and maintains written reports of all violations of applicable codes, local by-laws and approved plans and permits; stop work orders or other orders to remove illegal or unsafe conditions; requires the necessary safeguards during construction; requires adequate egress facilities in new and existing buildings and structures; and ensures compliance with all code requirements for the safety, health and general welfare of the public.
Performs similar or related work as required, directed, or as situation dictates.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a field related to building construction/design.
Minimum of 5-7 years’ experience in the construction trade or a Bachelor’s degree related to building construction/design, or
A combination of experience and education that would qualify under the State Building Code as an Inspector of Buildings/Building Commissioner.
State certification as Building Commissioner/Inspector of Buildings
Construction Supervisor License
Expert knowledge of Massachusetts State Building Code, zoning by-laws and other applicable municipal statutes.
Previous supervisory experience highly desirable
Valid driver’s license, class D.
Knowledge of accepted requirements for building construction, including fire prevention, light, ventilation, and safe egress.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings and plans and work with current technology including software programs. Ability to enforce regulations firmly, tactfully, and impartially.
Excellent customer service skills; Ability to communicate effectively and efficiently verbally and in writing at all times; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with town and state officials, members of the building community, and the general public.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Some work is performed under typical office conditions; inspection and site investigation work is performed in the field with exposure to variable weather conditions, loud noise, and the hazards associated with construction sites and other privately owned buildings. Makes frequent contacts with members of the building community, property owners, the general public, government officials, attorneys, and City departments. May be required to work beyond normal work hours to attend evening weekends and respond to emergency calls.

Physical Requirements

Regularly operates motor vehicle for travel to inspection sites, operates computer, telephone, and standard office equipment. Employee is regularly required to walk, stand, sit, talk, and hear; uses hands to finger, handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms as in picking up paper, files, and other common office objects. Employee may infrequently lift and/or move objects weighing up to 30 pounds such as books, equipment, supplies, etc. Vision and hearing at or correctable to normal ranges. Ability to distinguish colors. Employee must be able to access all levels of a construction site and traverse uneven terrain.

HOURS

Monday – Friday, 35 hours per week

7:30am – 3:00pm

SALARY

$83,567 - $108,637

Anticipated salary range as of 07/01/2026: $96,305 - $134,827

Application Deadline

Friday, May 22, 2026 @ 4:00pm or until position is filled.

Company Description

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, the City of Pittsfield is a vibrant and welcoming community that blends rich history with a forward-thinking outlook. As the cultural and economic hub of the region, Pittsfield offers a dynamic environment where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously. Our city government is committed to fostering a high quality of life for all residents by delivering essential services, promoting sustainable growth, and championing a diverse and inclusive community.

Working for the City of Pittsfield means being part of a team dedicated to public service and making a real difference in the lives of our citizens. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, where employees are encouraged to contribute ideas and take initiative. Whether it’s enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, or supporting our vibrant arts scene, every role within our organization plays a vital part in shaping the future of our city.

We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer committed to promoting a multicultural work force, excellence in public service, and on-going mutual respect in our working relationships. Minorities are encouraged to apply. We strongly encourage people of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ community, and people from other underrepresented groups to apply for our open positions - recognizing and respecting that diverse perspectives and experiences are valuable to our team and essential to our public service.

Join us in our mission to build a stronger, more connected Pittsfield, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Life Insurance
Retirement Savings Plan
Up to 14 paid Holidays
Personal Days
Vacation Time
Earned Sick Leave
Employee Assistance Program
Tuition Reimbursement

City of Pittsfield

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