Building Inspector

About the Role

The Building Inspector performs skilled and specialized duties related to residential, commercial, and industrial buildings and structures during construction, alteration, or repair. The role ensures compliance with applicable codes, approved plans, specifications, safe construction practices, and other regulations to safeguard public safety, health, and welfare.

Responsibilities

• Performs technically challenging, complex inspections of residential and commercial structures to ensure compliance with administrative policies, codes, regulations, and ordinances.
• Collaborates with the Zoning Officer to conduct property maintenance inspections and seek voluntary compliance with codes and regulations.
• Recommends corrections, issues violation notices when necessary, and performs re-inspections to verify compliance.
• Notifies applicants of deficiencies or discrepancies from code and conducts follow-up inspections of unsafe structures and sites.
• Acts on behalf of the Chief Building Official to enforce codes, including issuing "Stop Work Orders" or suspending, canceling, or revoking permits.
• Investigates and resolves complaints related to improper workmanship, safety problems, or nuisances in construction projects.
• Provides information to owners, contractors, developers, engineers, and architects regarding code standards and requirements; assists permit applicants.
• Maintains cooperative relationships with other departments, peer agencies, private contractors, property owners, and architects to coordinate building, zoning, and code enforcement functions.
• Assists the Engineer with field inspections of public buildings, underground utilities, flood control, public infrastructure, sediment and erosion control, and monitors contractor work against project schedules.
• Reviews site plans for flood plain compliance and performs clerical work, such as entering inspections into a computerized permit system and preparing reports.
• Documents the status, nature of compliance or deficiency, and recommended corrections or actions.
• Conducts and participates in pre-construction and weekly construction progress meetings with developers, contractors, engineers, architects, and staff.
• Examines plans, drawings, and specifications for proposed residential and commercial construction projects, focusing on structural, mechanical, and life safety aspects.
• Works with customers to resolve code violations or difficulties.
• Performs special projects, such as inspections for capital improvement projects, drainage, and road repairs.
• Responds to inquiries from builders, homeowners, and others regarding construction methods, practices, principles, and procedures.
• Coordinates inspections with other inspectors and supervisors during construction.
• Reviews and updates code standards and maintains files and filing systems.
• Receives, evaluates, and qualifies applications and plans for commercial and/or residential building, heating, and electrical permits.
• Attends training seminars to maintain knowledge of safety standards, technology, and software changes.
• Performs other related essential duties as required.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalency.
• Building Inspector Certification (Residential and Commercial) from the Ohio Board of Building Standards; or Residential Building Inspector or Code Official Certification with the ability to obtain Building Inspector Certification within 12 months of hire.
• Valid Ohio driver’s license.
• Must pass a background check and drug screen.

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to:
  • Comprehend and use informational documents such as requisitions, purchase orders, invoices, applications, plans, blueprints, and reports.
  • Understand reference materials, including building codes, zoning codes, maps, and computer manuals.
  • Prepare reports, violation letters, memos, and correspondence using prescribed formats.
  • Read, interpret, and critically evaluate technically written documents like construction plans and engineering reports.
  • Explain complex concepts clearly to diverse audiences.
  • Counsel, mediate, persuade, and train others on code compliance.
  • Work autonomously and adapt schedules to meet community development needs.
  • Develop and standardize procedures to improve efficiency.
  • Assess workloads, operational processes, and reporting relationships.
  • Investigate and resolve problems and complaints professionally.
  • Use independent judgment and common sense in enforcing codes and regulations.
  • Work under stressful conditions and respond to emergent situations.
  • Handle public complaints tactfully and effectively.
  • Work with frequent interruptions and navigate work sites safely.
  • Perceive and discriminate sounds, textures, odors, and shapes relevant to inspections.
  • Follow safety protocols.
• Skill in:
  • Self-scheduling, follow-up, and reporting.
  • Communicating effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including developers, builders, homeowners, and staff.
  • Scheduling, organizing, and prioritizing work to meet deadlines.
  • Using Microsoft Office, specialty software, and GIS software.
  • Interpreting engineering, architectural, and electrical terminology.
  • Establishing positive working relationships with community stakeholders, city council members, and staff.
  • Maintaining composure in difficult or stressful situations.
  • Listening and interpreting questions accurately.
  • Behaving professionally and helpfully with clients, coworkers, and the public.
• Knowledge of:
  • Principles, practices, and procedures of building construction.
  • Ohio Building Code (OBC) and Residential Code of Ohio requirements.
  • Basic building components, structures, and design.
  • Occupational hazards and safety precautions related to building inspection work.
  • City and departmental policies and procedures.