Job Summary
Under general supervision, performs technical work in reviewing plans to ensure compliance with all applicable codes and inspecting new and existing structures for the issuance of permits in accordance with building and other pertinent codes. Work involves performing general clerical and administrative tasks in maintaining departmental operations. Serves as Deputy Building Official in absence of Building Official.
Essential Job Functions
- Reviews construction plans for compliance with building codes.
- Inspects construction, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, gas, and Americans With Disabilities Act codes.
- Conducts preliminary plan reviews with architects, engineers, and developers.
- Interprets all adopted building codes, policies, ordinances, and procedures for the Inspectors, contractors, and the general public.
- Maintains files and records of all building plans.
- Assists Inspectors with specific questions regarding approval of plans, code requirements, and interpretation; conducts building inspections as required.
- Researches on the Internet for updates on codes and manufacturer’s specifications.
- Maintains a Town vehicle.
- Keeps up-to-date with continuing education requirements; passes certification exams as required.
- Performs general administrative/office duties as required, including typing reports and correspondence, entering and retrieving computer data, copying and filing documents, sending and receiving faxes, answering the telephone, establishing and maintaining filing systems, etc.
- Receives and/or reviews a variety of reports and records (such as architectural plans, engineering plans, special inspection reports, energy conservation reports, and State laws).
- Prepares and/or processes a variety of documentation (such as permit application, plan review letter, inspection deficiency reports, business license inspection forms, and written warnings).
- Refers to building codes, manufacturer’s instructions, ordinances, State law, Internet, policy and procedure manuals, publications and reference texts, etc.
- Operates a vehicle and a variety of equipment and machinery (such as electrical panel boards, HVAC and mechanical systems, plumbing systems, structural framing, computer, printer, wireless router, modem, etc.).
- Uses a variety of tools (such as calculator, electrical analyzers, hand tools, pressure gauges, measuring tape, levels, standard office tools, etc.); a variety of supplies (such as inspection forms, writing instruments, paper, hard hats, flashlights, general office supplies, etc.); and a variety of computer software (such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, CitizenServe, ResCheck, ComCheck, etc.).
- Interacts and communicates with various groups and individuals (such as Building Official, other Town personnel, co-workers, architects, engineers, contractors, and the general public).
- Provides assistance to coworkers and/or performs those responsibilities as necessary to maintain standards of operation.
- Maintains membership on local and Statewide group related to building.
- Performs other related duties as required.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described.
Minimum Education And Experience
Requires an Associate’s degree in construction management, engineering, or related field supplemented by three to five years’ experience in all phases of the construction field or a closely related position; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must possess a valid South Carolina driver's license. Must have State certification as a Plans Examiner and certified through ICC as a Building Official. Must have successfully completed required courses and certification; may be required to possess additional certification(s) as deemed necessary by the Town.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
- Knowledge of the methods, procedures and policies of the Building Department as they pertain to the performance of duties of the Plans Examiner/Code Enforcement Officer.
- Knowledge of the laws, ordinances, standards and regulations pertaining to the specific duties and responsibilities of the position.
- Knowledge of structural, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, gas, accessibility, and fire safety codes.
- Knowledge of modern office practices and technology.
- Knowledge of and skill in the use of computers for records management.
- Knowledge of how to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations.
- Knowledge of the terminology used within the department. Has knowledge of proper English usage and basic mathematics.
- Knowledge of how to personally demonstrate appropriate customer service skills.
- Ability to conduct thorough plan review, note deficiencies and determine proper corrective courses of action.
- Ability to perform fieldwork in uncomfortable physical conditions, including exposure to excessive heat/cold, odors, electrical currents, construction hazards, toxic agents, etc., and entering confined spaces and climbing to various heights.
- Ability to communicate professionally with other Town and county departments, property/business owners, architecture/engineering/development and construction/real estate professionals, contractors, etc., in order to accomplish goals and complete projects.
- Ability to work under stressful conditions related to balancing multiple projects within the constraints of time available.
- Ability to react professionally at all times, dealing with sensitive situations with tact and diplomacy.
- Ability to offer assistance to co-workers and employees of other departments as required.
- Ability to take the initiative to complete the duties of the position without the need of direct supervision.
- Ability to learn and utilize new skills and information to improve job performance and efficiency.
- Ability to read and interpret technical materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job.
- Ability to prepare required reports and records with accuracy and in a timely manner.
- Ability to maintain positive customer-focused relationships with co-workers, supervisors, agencies, the general public, and all other internal and external customers.
Physical Requirements
Tasks involve the ability to exert very moderate physical effort in light work, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching and crawling, and the lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (up to 20 pounds) and occasionally heavier objects and materials (up to 40 pounds). Tasks may require traversing uneven terrain during field inspections.
Additional Information
Benefits Offered
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Life insurance
SC Retirement System
401k deferred compensation
457b deferred compensation
Vacation Leave
Sick Leave
Holiday Leave (12 holidays)
Flexible Spending Accounts
Other Voluntary Insurance
The Town of Summerville is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will recruit and hire employees without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, genetic information, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions), age, political affiliation or disability, except when physical condition is a bona fide occupational qualification, and any other status protected by federal or state law.
APPLICATION SPECIAL INSTRUCTION
Please upload your resume and a list of references. Salary is commensurate with experience.