Inspector - Building

Job Summary

Performs skilled professional work interpreting and enforcing State Building Codes and various other county regulations to safeguard the public health, safety, and welfare. Assists in issuance of permits and plan review of commercial and residential building projects in the unincorporated areas of the county. Performs inspections on all new construction and remodeling from site plan review to final inspection. Assists contractors and the general public in understanding and applying the State Building Code and local codes. Work may be a combination of office duties and building field inspections to include site inspections for zoning code requirements and erosion sediment control regulations. Performs skilled professional work interpreting and enforcing State Building Codes.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Interprets building codes and exercises independent judgment on code compliance and construction methods and requirements as provided within the Minnesota State Building Code, including all chapters.

• Conducts plan review of commercial or residential buildings and building systems for compliance with all applicable codes. 

• Assists and advises the general public in matters relating to construction, building plans, and code requirements. 

• Performs inspections on residential and commercial buildings and their systems during construction to ensure compliance with building and other applicable codes and ordinances; issues correction notices for violations, issues "stop work" orders, and may be required to testify in court. 

• Investigates complaints determining if hazardous or illegal conditions exist in regard to property or structures and provides information to bring about compliance. 

• Manages an inspection schedule to ensure efficient and on-time inspection services. 

• Collaborates with permit applicants, building contractors, project stake holders and design professionals during pre-construction, plan review, and construction, about MN State building Code requirements and local ordinances.

• Maintains building permit files and daily inspection records to ensure record retention requirements are met. 

• Performs inspections to verify setbacks from property lines, wetlands, and other structures are met. 

• Participates in cross-functional activities of the division as assigned.

• Develops forms and handouts for department use and distribution to the public. 

• Works the hours and/or shifts assigned and begins and ends work on time. 

• Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Requires equivalency of high school graduation and four years of related experience in building inspections, code enforcement, architecture, building design, or construction management (an Associate's Degree in a construction-related field can substitute for the experience). A valid driver's license and a reliable form of transportation for the performance of work responsibilities is required. One must hold an MN State Building Official or Building Official Limited Certification or be able to obtain within one year.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATION(S)

International Code Council (ICC) Building Inspector Certification, ICC Mechanical Inspector Certification, and IAPMO Plumbing Inspector Certification, ICC Plans examiner Certification, Erosion Sediment Control Certification and code enforcement training are desirable.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
The employee is under general guidance and direction from the Building Official. The employee works on their own initiative and must regularly exercise independent technical judgment and discretion based on experience and knowledge of MN building codes and knowledge of a wide variety of construction and zoning problems. Work is subject to periodic review by the supervisor.

CORE COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES
Customer Service - Delivers government services in a respectful, responsive, and solution-oriented manner.

Communication - Is always clear about what we're doing and why we're doing it.

Collaboration - Works with partners – communities, schools, faith groups, private business, and non-profit agencies – to see that services are not duplicated but rather are complimentary, aligned, and provided by the partners who can deliver the service most effectively.

Stewardship - Works proactively to make investments, guided by resident input, which will transform lives, communities, and government.

Empowerment - Works with individuals and families to affirm strengths, develop skills, restore hope, and promote self-reliance.

Resiliency - Fosters public preparedness and responds when families and communities face health and safety emergencies.

Innovation - Takes informed risks to deliver services more effectively and learns from successes and failures.

Knowledge – Knowledge of materials and methods of building construction as utilized in actual practice, and proficient knowledge of the building code and legal application thereof.

Knowledge of the design and construction of residential and commercial structures, systems, and appendages.

Knowledge of the quality and strength of building materials.

Knowledge of sewage treatment system regulations.

Knowledge of or ability to gain working knowledge of the county zoning ordinance.

Abilities – Ability to operate a motor vehicle in a safe and efficient manner.

Ability to traverse difficult terrain and/or uneven surfaces as found in and around construction sites.

Ability to work outside in all seasons during adverse and uncomfortable weather conditions (e.g. heat, cold, wind, ice, rain, snow, etc.)

Ability to gain working knowledge of the political boundaries of the county and the organizational structure of the municipalities therein.

Ability to read and objectively interpret building code, zoning ordinance, and I.S.T.S. regulations in a knowledgeable manner, along with other laws pertaining to the regulation of buildings, and to tactfully and effectively communicate, orally or in writing, with the general public while maintaining effective relationships.

Ability to read and interpret construction plans and specifications.

Ability to independently recognize, evaluate, and properly resolve unique problems or situations requiring the exercise of good judgment.

Ability to maintain records and prepare written reports.

Ability to maintain effective working relationships with architects, builders, homeowners, employees, other agencies, officials, and the general public.

Ability to speak, present, and interact in public arenas with composure, professionalism, and discretion.

Ability to use MS Office software for the performance of essential duties.

Ability to use electronic permit, plan review, and inspection applications.

Ability to use appropriate discretion in dealing with matters of a confidential nature.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Typical characteristics of the regular, ongoing work environment of this position requires field work, in and around places of residence and business. One may be exposed to site hazards such as chemical/dust exposure; treacherous surfaces; angry, confrontational, or hostile persons; aggressive animals; unsanitary conditions (e.g., sewage, garbage), strong odors, traffic areas, moving vehicles/equipment, etc. when traversing inspection sites.

Physical activities include light to medium work: Sitting, talking, hearing, seeing, driving, standing, walking, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crawling, pushing, pulling, feeling, reaching, lifting, grasping, twisting above the waist, bending at waist, repetitive hand and arm motion, and fine finger manipulation in the use of a computer. Incumbent will climb ladders, enter crawl spaces, exert force to maneuver items, and lift and/or navigate up to 50 pounds on a routine basis in handling equipment necessary for performing the essential duties of the job.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.