Definition:
Under the supervision of the Building Official, the Building Inspector performs technical review of plans and building permit applications for completeness and general compliance with State regulations, model codes and local ordinances. Conducts field inspections of building construction, reconstruction and alterations at various stages and at completion to assure compliance with approved plans and specifications. Building Inspectors are assigned as generalists, performing plan reviews and field inspections on both residential and commercial property. All Inspectors are expected to be able to perform inspections in all specialty areas – building, electrical, mechanical and plumbing.
The Building Inspector’s primary duty will be to perform over the counter plan review services and assist with code interpretations and questions while maintaining a helpful and professional demeanor with the general public, architects, designers and owner-builders and the Building Division front counter.
EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
- Perform over the counter plan review services
- Enforces building related codes, including California Building Standards Codes, Uniform Housing Code, Uniform Abatement of Dangerous Buildings Code, and local codes
- Issues correction notices and citations
- Performs on-site inspections of footings, foundations, framing, electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems, finish materials, roofing, etc.
- Issues certificates and permits as appropriate
- Assists in researching problems and complaints regarding commercial and residential buildings.
- Plan checks
- Maintains records of building and inspection activity and completes related reports
- Maintain the front counter and issue permits when necessary
- Assists design professionals and the public with code interpretations
- Performs other duties as required
MINIMUM POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
KNOWLEDGE OF: Laws, codes and requirements of building inspection and building code enforcement; principles and techniques of building construction and interpreting and applying codes and regulations
SKILL AND ABILITY TO: Analyze, interpret and accurately check plans and specifications; perform complex building, plumbing, electrical and mechanical and green building inspections; learn applicable municipal codes, urban run-off management plans, and zoning ordinance codes; understand, interpret, explain and apply laws and regulations; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with co-workers and the public; and communicate effectively orally and in writing.
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- 2+ years’ experience as a Building Inspector or other related building department position with the appropriate state certifications OR 3+ years’ experience in the major building trades with appropriate state certifications OR significant and recent study in an accredited Building Inspection Technology College program with the ability to obtain the appropriate certifications.
- Public agency work experience as a Building Inspector is preferred
- ICC certification as a Building, Plumbing, Mechanical and Electrical Inspector is required
- Additional certification by ICC as a Plan Examiner is highly desirable.
- Must possess a valid California driver’s license and have a satisfactory driving record.
- Must have outstanding interpersonal communication and customer service skills
IDEAL CANDIDATE POSSESSES THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERISTICS: Is highly professional, patient, respectful, and ethical; possesses excellent problem-solving skills and a can-do attitude. Communicates effectively and proactively both verbally and in writing. Enjoys working in a small-town atmosphere with an engaged public, including merchants, property owners and residents.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer, to inspect City development and construction sites, to operate a motor vehicle, and to visit various City and meeting sites; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone. This is primarily a sedentary office classification although standing and walking between work areas and walking on uneven terrain and climbing to reach certain access points may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 25 pounds. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
RECRUITMENT PROCESS:
Prior to hire, candidates will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment process, including a livescan background investigation. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment; however, failure to disclose a conviction will result in disqualification or termination.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The City of Los Altos is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of a person’s race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, mental or physical disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, age or sexual orientation. Candidates with a disability, which may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process, should advise City of Los Altos upon submittal of application. Documentation of the need for accommodation must accompany the request.
LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.
