Prioritizes and performs building and code enforcement, nuisance abatement, and community education duties such as inspecting commercial and residential structures (existing structures and those under construction, alteration, or repair) to make sure the structure and /or property complies with applicable requirements, regulations, ordinances, and codes, advising owners and contractors regarding building and construction codes, nuisance violations and preparing documentation and reports while maintaining a high level of customer service.
- Inspect properties for compliance with the International Codes, land use codes, nuisance code, sensitive area requirements, and sign code as directed by the Building Official
- Arrange and prioritize day-to-day inspection schedules, and coordinate inspections and recommendations with owners, contractors and other City departments or individuals involved in construction and remodeling.
- Keep track of work in progress to make sure codes, regulations, and sound construction practices are being observed.
- Inspect and review proposed building plans to assure compliance with municipal codes and the International Codes as adopted by Washington State and the city of Anacortes.
- Set up and maintain accurate electronic and hard copy records of construction, results of inspections, and compliance with applicable codes.
- Investigate, assess, and resolve citizen complaints, including nuisance complaints, within scope of authority. Respond courteously to complaints outside scope of authority and refer to the appropriate person.
- Prepare written reports to owners, architects, engineers, contractors, general public and other City agencies.
- Receive submittal packages and review for completeness; respond to questions regarding the routine permitting process; assist the public in person and on the telephone regarding the permit process, fees, timeframes, application requirements and other inquiries relating to permits.
- Input permit related information into computers; utilize related software to maintain records, generate records, reports, and issue permits.
- Assist staff in the preparation of informational literature.
- Communicate effectively with building owners, contractors, and the public to perform community education functions and explain codes, why the codes exist, and how the public benefits from their enforcement.
- Where public health, safety, or welfare may be in jeopardy, recommend the initiation of abatement proceedings to the Building Official.
- Inspect structures damaged by natural and other causes, such as fire, high wind, or earthquake, where there are life and safety concerns.
- As appropriate, devise and recommend improved tools, methods, and procedures to accomplish work assignments.
- At all times perform work in accordance with sound safety practices and make recommendations for improved safety.
- Apply basic computer skills to do research, database management, computations and record keeping for code compliance.
- May perform portions of the work of other classified positions, as assigned.
- May perform duties of similar complexity in any City department as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS: Prefer certification by International Code Council (ICC) as a building inspector. An equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the requisite skills and abilities may be considered. Must be able to attain ICC certification as a Building Inspector within one year of hire. Must be able to remain current on building and code enforcement developments. Prefer at least three years of journey level experience in building construction. Minimum of a high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent required.
Licenses and other requirements: Valid Washington State driver's license.
KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of:
- Must have considerable knowledge of the International Building and Residential Codes Mechanical Code, Plumbing Code, Uniform Fire Code and Washington State Energy Code as applicable to the duties of the job.
- Prefer knowledge of engineering calculations used in performing structural design and in ensuring life and safety requirements.
Ability to:
- Must be able to read and understand blueprints, ordinances, and construction laws, and to identify areas of noncompliance with fire and life safety codes.
- Must be able to identify deficiencies in plans and structures, and to specify need for corrections for inadequate structural, mechanical, and plumbing design.
- Must have ability to effectively assess community issues and communicate with the public, property owners, elected officials, or other departments and agencies.
- Must be able to set and maintain priorities and effectively coordinate with owners, contractors, and other departments.
- Must be able to exercise judgment under stress.
- Must be able to maintain confidentiality of critical information.
- Must be able to understand and follow both oral and written instructions.
- Must have or be able to obtain first aid and CPR certification.
LEVEL OF AUTHORITY: Performs regular and recurring duties with only general supervision, and exercises latitude and judgment in the application of general procedures and policies. Receives closer supervision when performing new and more complex work.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is performed both indoors and outdoors. On occasion, candidate may be outdoors for extended periods of time in all kinds of weather conditions. The nature of the position excludes outside or added employment. Regular, in-person attendance is an essential function.
PHYSICAL: Requires ability to spend substantial time driving from site to site and getting in and out of vehicle throughout the day. Must be able to make access into, under, and around structures by crawling in confined spaces, climbing, navigating difficult terrain, and stooping for prolonged periods as necessary to conduct a thorough inspection. Must be able to make visual inspections in structures that are dimly lit and to visually inspect members of a structure in various stages of completion. Must have hearing ability sufficient, for example, to monitor radio and to hear safety warnings on a building site. Must have physical ability to carry and set up ladders.
OTHER: The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required and the scope of responsibility; but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individual may perform other duties as assigned including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise to balance the workload. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or is a logical assignment to the position. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned.
Following an offer of employment, and prior to starting work, individuals may be required to have a pre-employment physical examination by a physician designated by the City of Anacortes. The City will pay for the examination. Satisfactory clearance to perform essential job functions will be required for employment. As an absolute condition of employment, employees are required upon hire to sign a drug-free workplace agreement and an agreement not to use tobacco products in any form while on the job.
The City of Anacortes is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, creed, sex (including pregnancy), age (over 40), marital status, families with children, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, genetic information, sexual orientation including gender identity, or status as an honorably discharged veteran or military status, or any other class protected by federal, state, or local law. Accommodations for people with disabilities are provided on request.