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The County of San Mateo Planning & Building Department is seeking well-qualified candidates for the position of Building Inspector.

 

Under general supervision, Building Inspectors inspect public and private buildings, structures, and related installations being constructed, altered, or repaired to determine conformance with approved plans and specifications and compliance with applicable laws and ordinances. In addition, Building Inspectors investigate complaints, advise and assist building contractors and property owners on the use of materials and building methods, and coordinate inspections with other agencies and organizations. Specific duties include inspection of plumbing, water, gas, and electrical work as well as general construction work; preparing reports and maintaining records; processing and issuing permits; and minor plan checking.

 

Building Inspector I is the trainee level class in the Building Inspector series, responsible for learning the tasks and responsibilities involved in the inspection of public and private buildings. This class is distinguished from Building Inspector II/III by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within this series. Employees at this level work under general supervision while learning job tasks, but as experience is gained, incumbents work with greater independence and are given more responsible assignments. Work is typically reviewed in progress and upon completion for conformance with established procedures.

 

Building Inspector II is the journey-level class in the Building Inspector series. Employees at this level are capable of working independently and performing a full range of inspections of plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and structural work as well as general construction.

 

Building Inspector III is the advanced level class in the Building Inspector series. This class is distinguished from Building Inspector II by the performance of the full range of more complex and difficult inspection activities. Employees at this level assist in training less experienced inspectors and provide assistance with difficult situations in the field. Positions in this class series are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement based on experience and acceptable work performance.

 

The ideal candidate will have:

• At least two years of experience conducting a full range of inspections of buildings and related structures and working in a jurisdiction performing a combination of field inspections and minor plan reviews.
• Be well-versed in the area of building construction and safety.
• Have experience training less experienced inspectors and provide assistance with difficult situations in the field.
• The ability to analyze and interpret building and zoning codes, ability to determine the scope of grading and erosion control.
• Knowledge of laws and regulations to resolve complex issues or situations.
• excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• excellent customer service skills.

In addition, the ideal candidate will have the skill and ability to:

• Work at indoor and outdoor construction sites at different heights and in confined spaces.
• Walk on uneven surfaces.
• Climb into trenches.
• Work on ladders.

 

Possession of a Combination Inspector Certification (building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing) from a recognized testing organization, and California Access Specialist (CASp) Certification are highly desirable.

NOTE: The eligible list generated from this recruitment may be used to fill future extra-help, term, unclassified, and regular classified vacancies.

 

Examples Of Duties

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Inspect structures being built, repaired or altered for conformance with approved plans and specifications and compliance with applicable laws and ordinances.
• Inspect plumbing, water, and gas lines, gas appliances, electrical services, electrical wiring, motor installations, setbacks, quality of materials used, and general construction of buildings.
• Investigate building code violations; post "stop work" notices on work in progress that does not conform to law; post notices on houses unsafe for occupancy; prepare correction notices; order corrections and improvements.
• Inspect existing structures for unsafe or substandard conditions; write correction and violation notices; make reinspections.
• Make final inspections; issue certificates of final inspections; prepare reports of inspections and work completed.
• Advise builders and property owners on building construction methods and code requirements; advise on building practices; assist with problems and interpret codes; wait on counter, answer phones, and write correspondence giving information on codes, general requirements, zoning regulations, and inspections.
• Assist the public by processing permits, receiving fees, and writing receipts.
• Review building plans.
• Prepare reports and maintain records.
• Coordinate work with other agencies on code and ordinance provisions and in cooperative efforts to improve housing in deteriorated areas.
• Maintain surveillance of substandard dwelling units to expedite rehabilitation, abatement, demolition, or court action.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

 

Qualifications

Education and Experience: Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying.

Building Inspector II: One year of experience in conducting a full range of inspections of buildings and related structures.

Building Inspector III:Two years of experience in conducting a full range of inspections of buildings and related structures.

 

Licensure/Certification:

Building Inspector I: Obtain certification as a building inspector from a recognized state, national or international association within two years of employment, pursuant to State requirements.

Building Inspector II/III: Possession of certification from a recognized state, national, or international association.

 

TENTATIVE RECRUITMENT SCHEDULE

Final Filing Date: Thurs day, July 10, 2025, by 11:59 PM PST

Application Screening: July 14 - 18, 2025

Civil Service Panel Interviews: July 31 and/or August 1, 2025

General

 

APPLICATION DEADLINE:       Sunday, August 31 2025 (1st cutoff Sunday, August 10, 2025)

The Bus Fleet Facilities Infrastructure Department oversees the delivery of major bus fleet and facilities infrastructure projects for SamTrans. The projects include design and construction of zero emission infrastructure (battery electric bus (BEB) charging infrastructure and hydrogen fuel cell electric bus (FCEB) infrastructure) for SamTrans's revenue and non­revenue fleet of nearly 400 vehicles, sea level rise and flood mitigation structures, bus administration, transportation, and maintenance buildings, and other structures at SamTrans' North Base and South Base Maintenance Facilities. 

The Construction Manager will report to the Director, Bus Infrastructure and Capital Projects and will be responsible for establishing standards, policies, and processes to manage the construction of SamTrans projects. This position oversees both the construction and construction management of projects, working with Project Managers, Construction Management Team, and Contractors to ensure successful project delivery. Responsibilities include providing constructability review of Contract Documents prior to advertisement, providing guidance to engineering and construction management staff in the planning, organizing and directing the work of contractors, negotiating changes to project scope or budget, directing the advertise, award, and administration phases of construction, and ensuring project and contract compliance with public contracting law.

Essential Functions & Duties

Examples of Essential Functions:

• Oversee the development of standard construction management manual that can be used for future SamTrans facilities and infrastructure projects in construction.
• Oversees the development of a Construction Quality Management Plan for construction projects.
• The individual selected for this position must demonstrate strong abilities in leadership, self–motivation, and technical acumen as well as extensive staff management and development experience, strong communication and organizational skills, and sound judgment in their area of expertise.
• Managing general engineering consultants that develop provide construction management services.
• Oversees the constructability review process for construction documents prior to bid issuance.
• Managing coordination and communications with project stakeholders.
• Oversee management of the scope, schedule, budget, and quality of infrastructure projects from construction phase to close out.
• Make presentations at SamTrans Board meetings and other public meetings about the construction projects.
• Manage communication with internal and external stakeholders. Obtain input, collaborate, build consensus, and resolve issues if needed.
• Manage consultant and professional level staff. Ensure EEO policies and procedures are followed. Participate in selection of staff. Coordinate staff training and professional development. Establish performance objectives. Monitor and evaluate employee performance.

Examples of Essential Duties:

• Inspects on-going construction projects to ensure improvement and devise capital improvement plans.
• Manages and participates in the development and implementation of Construction Management Manual, Construction Quality Management Plan and other relevant documents to help improve the workflow and development of the department during construction.
• Plans, directs, coordinates, and reviews the work directives for assigned staff or contractors; assigns work activities, projects, and programs; reviews and evaluates work products, methods, and procedures; meets with staff and/or contract service providers to identify and resolve problems.
• Provide constructability reviews and approve final project plans, specifications, and cost estimates.
• Collaborate with project managers in the preparation of plans, specifications, cost estimates, requests for proposals, and bid documents for SamTrans’ infrastructure projects.
• Coordinate and collaborate closely with SamTrans project stakeholders.
• Brief Executive Management and the Board on the status, progress, and requirements of SamTrans infrastructure projects.
• Provide direction and guidance to consultant staff responsible for managing infrastructure projects.
• Support development of contract solicitations.
• Investigate, evaluate, and resolve project issues.
• Identify root cause of issues. Determine and present appropriate solutions.
• Review cost estimates, monitor construction schedules and budgets, and monitor work in progress.
• Coordinate the provision of capital project development and implementation services with other departments and divisions.  
• Maintain a full understanding of all technical and regulatory matters affecting bus facility and infrastructure maintenance and construction activities.   
• Coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies during project implementation, and ensure compliance with their administrative guidelines.
• Represent SamTrans before the Board of Directors, city councils, and other state, federal, local, and regional agencies, boards, and before local citizens in public meetings and hearings.
• Develop, negotiate, and monitor contracts and cooperative agreements with other governmental agencies, private consultants, and private contractors.
• Perform all job duties and responsibilities in a safe manner to protect oneself, fellow employees, and the public from injury or harm. Promote safety awareness and follow safety procedures in an effort to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

 

Minimum Qualifications Sufficient experience, training and/or education to demonstrate the knowledge and ability to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. In lieu of a degree, work-related experience that demonstrates the skills and experience necessary to perform this role will be accepted. Development of the required knowledge and abilities is typically obtained through but not limited to:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Five (5) years full-time increasingly responsible management experience in the area of civil, electrical, mechanical, or other related engineering design, construction management, and/or public works project management.
• Three (3) years experience supervising staff on a full-time or project basis.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experienced in the management and delivery of complex engineering design projects for public transit agencies.
• Possess Quality Control/Quality Assurance experience.
• Experienced with Storm Water System Management.
• Registered Professional Engineer in the state of California.
• Able to possess a valid California drivers’ license with a safe driving record.

 

The selection process may include a panel interview, written and skills test assessments, or supplemental questions.  Only those candidates who are the most qualified will continue in the selection process. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an invitation to continue in the process.      

 

How to Apply

• Complete an online employment application by 11:59 p.m. of the listed closing date.  Resumes and cover letters will not be accepted in lieu of fully completed applications.  It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that applications are completed with all relevant information (experience, education, certifications, licenses, references and/or other information). 

• The Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the recruitment/examination process to accommodate applicants with disabilities upon request.  If you have a need for an accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department.   

• We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace environment.  We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.  Minorities, Women, Persons with Disabilities and Veterans are encouraged to apply. 

POSITION HIGHLIGHTS 

• Diverse and Impactful Project Involvement: Review diverse residential and commercial plans, influencing safe, code-compliant development.  

• Public & Professional Interaction: Collaborate with industry professionals and assist the public with code and permit guidance. 

• Key Role in Permit Process: Perform plan checks, revisions, evaluate permit fees and coordinate with the design team to move the projects forward towards permit issuance. 

 

We have an excellent opportunity in the Building Division for the position of Plan Check Assistant!

We are seeking a customer service-oriented individual with the competence and experience to address challenges with confidence and professionalism. The Plan Check Assistant performs a range of duties in reviewing and checking building construction plans (residential, commercial, and industrial) for compliance with all applicable State and City codes. 

 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Read and interpret architectural and structural engineering plans to ensure conformance with the California codes, structural design codes, and local municipal codes.  

• Respond to inquiries from, and provide information to architects, engineers, contractors, building designers, homeowners, and the general public regarding project status, plan checking, and other code-related issues  

• Provide assistance at the public service counter (over-the-counter plan checking, code and permit fee questions)  

• Perform routine engineering analysis and calculations  

• Approve over-the-counter plan revisions to issued permits  

We have an exciting opportunity for a full-time Chief Building Official to join our team in Millbrae, San Mateo County.  

Reporting to the Community Development Director, you will help lead Millbrae’s growth by directing fieldwork, ensuring compliance with building regulations, facilitating major construction projects, and upholding high safety standards.

In addition to administrative duties, this customer-service-oriented position includes providing education and guidance to residents and contractors, performing hands-on plan checks and building inspections, and overseeing a support team of contracted permit technicians, plan checkers, and inspectors.

 

Definition: This division head classification is responsible for managing the City’s building inspection activities, enforcing the state building codes and regulations, plan check services and advising builders and homeowners on construction design and standards.

 

Essential Duties: Depending upon assignment, the duties of the Building Official include:

 

• Managing and directing the division staff. Through inspections, ensures that all structures comply with applicable state and local laws, codes and ordinances.  Ensuring prompt review of plans for proposed building construction or alterations, and the timely inspection of structures.
• Reviewing and recommending revisions of the City codes to comply with federal, state and local requirements.
• Developing policies and procedures designed to improve plan checking and the code enforcement program. Streamlining permit issuance procedures, when applicable, and developing updated forms as needed.
• Effectively monitoring division workloads to ensure adequate and timely plan checks and building inspections.
• Providing technical assistance and advice to architects, engineers, contractors and homeowners on matters pertaining to building plans, zoning regulations, construction methods, materials, procedures and building and related codes.
• Maintaining a competent and motivated work force by training, developing, disciplining and evaluating the performance of subordinates. Objectively and constructively evaluating the performance of subordinates, promptly apprizing subordinates of how well they are performing and/or in what specific areas they should seek improvement.
• Ensuring financial soundness of the division by developing, justifying and effectively managing the division budget.
• Generating monthly reports for the City Manager regarding building activity and workload, and other reports as necessary.  Maintaining work records related to the development of such reports.
• Responding to and resolving complaints from the public in a tactful and courteous manner.  Investigating problems to determine responsibility and methods for resolution as appropriate.
• Interpreting and making decisions on technical problems related to building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical codes and related federal, state and local laws and ordinances.
• Ensuring that checks and analysis of new construction and building alteration plans for residential, commercial, industrial buildings are done in a timely manner to ensure compliance with codes and policies. Ensuring plan checks accurately identify corrections, corrections notices are prepared and forwarded to applicant, maintaining plan check log for up to date information and current status of the plan check. Approving plans and issuing permits when appropriate.
• Maintaining and developing the electronic permitting and inspection system.
• Maintaining and developing the City street file system.

 

Special Requirements: Physical agility adequate to inspect construction sites.  Requires physical flexibility and dexterity, including the ability to continually stand, bend, stoop, reach and crouch.  Must be able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, hear voices and operate telephones.  Must have the ability to quickly and accurately see, review, and interpret plans and diagrams and make inspections.

 

Minimum Qualifications:

 

Knowledge of: Building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical codes and ordinances enforced by the City; principals, practices and techniques of combination inspection, building materials, accepted safety standards; State laws regulating building construction and zoning; precautionary safety and fire prevention methods in occupancy of buildings; building construction and materials, particularly structural construction materials and specialized terminology used in connection therewith; general knowledge of accepted methods of training; and knowledge of the construction industry and of modern supervisory principals and practices.

 

Ability and skills: To direct the work of others; provide technical supervision and training to division staff; read and

quality control building plans, diagrams, specification and building codes; enforce laws, codes and regulations with tact;

maintain records and prepare clear and concise reports and correspondence; supervise plan checking; analyze facts and exercise good independent judgement; read, interpret and perform analysis of plans for various structures; formulate and apply uniform policies and standards for the building inspection program; deal tactfully and effectively with contractors and the public; learn, retain, interpret and use technical knowledge related to federal, state and local laws related to building codes. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Establish, maintain and foster cooperative teamwork within the division, within various departments and other agencies that are associated with building construction.

 

Education and Training Guidelines: Sufficient education and experience to satisfactorily perform the duties of this classification. A typical qualifying background would be four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in combination inspections, including two (2) years at a supervisory level. An Associate of Arts or Science Degree in Building Inspection Technology or a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field is desirable.

 

Experience: Four (4) years of progressively responsible full-time experience as a Building Inspector with a Municipal Building Department with at least two (2) years in a supervisory position.

 

Supervision Exercised and Received: The Building Official supervises the Building Inspector/Plan Checker and the Permit Technician.  The Building Official reports to the Community Development Director. 

 

License: Must possess and maintain a valid California Operator’s License issued by the State Department of Motor Vehicles and a satisfactory driving record.

 

Certification: Must possess and maintain certifications by the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO): Plans Examiner and Combination Inspector. Must possess, or obtain within one year of employment, certification by the International Code Council (ICC) as a Building Official. A Certified Access Specialist (CASp) certification is highly desirable. Registration as an architect, civil, or structural engineer is highly desirable.

We’re looking for a motivated, reliable, and diligent professional to take on the role of Senior Building Inspector. You will join a fast-paced, dynamic team environment, providing critical inspection services within the Community Development Department.  This position receives direction from the Deputy Building Official, will provide leadership and indirect supervision over other inspection staff, and can build positive working relationships throughout the organization and development community. If you are looking to have a direct impact in a role requiring strong problem-solving skills, leadership, and emotional intelligence, this position is for you!  Review our detailed job description here. 

The Essentials 

• Three years increasingly responsible building inspection experience supplemented by journey level construction trade experience. 
• Equivalent to the completion of the 12th grade supplemented by college level courses in inspection methods, architecture, structural, or civil engineering.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate California driver’s license. 
• Possession of an International Code Council (ICC) certification as a combination inspector, building inspector, or designated trade specialist, e.g., electrical inspector.

 

Bonus Points:

• Possession of an AA degree in a related field.
• Experience in a City Building Department.
• Possession of a CASp certification.

What You'll Do
 

• Perform field inspections on various structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical and building systems at various stages of building construction, alteration, or repair to ensure compliance with applicable codes. 
• Check building plans for compliance with applicable codes.
• Confer with and resolve code and inspection disputes between staff and builders, developers, contractors, architects, engineers, and the public. 
• Respond to questions and concerns of assigned staff and/or the public; assist in coordinating inspection activities. 
• Collaborate on code violation cases with the Code Enforcement Division of the City Attorney’s Office.
• Coordinate inspection activities with inspection staff in other City Divisions/ Departments, such as Planning, Fire, Environmental Safety, and Public Works, and in collaboration with other county and state agencies. 
• Provide training to new Building Inspection staff and on City policies, procedures, rules, and regulations. 
• Prepare appropriate paperwork, violation notices, records, and reports. 
• Support the public counter and Permit Center in the Building Division as needed. 
• Develop and prepare forms and online content related to inspection services for the City Website, in collaboration with other Department staff.
• Perform related duties as assigned. 

Are We a Match?

• You are knowledgeable about, and can clearly explain to others, the principles and practices of the California Building, Plumbing, Mechanical and Electrical Codes, and other pertinent Federal, State, County codes, and City ordinances.
• You are familiar with, or are willing to learn, about green building and Reach Codes that support the City’s sustainability initiatives.
• You are a problem solver with the ability to identify existing or potential problems and proactively collaborate on solutions.
• You are an exceptional communicator with superior interpersonal skills. You establish and maintain effective working relationships and enjoy collaborating with others in a team environment. 
• You enjoy teaching and mentoring a team on your technical building expertise and enjoy learning from others expertise.
• You are a quick and efficient professional who is adept at juggling multiple priorities and projects to meet targeted deadlines. 
• You are passionate about community development and enjoy providing outstanding customer service to Mountain View’s business and residential community. 
• You embrace new technologies that make information sharing and providing quality inspection services that much easier for inspectors and customers.
• You have experience inspecting large development, such as multi-building commercial campuses, mixed-use developments, affordable housing, Master Plans, or mid-to-high-rise residential developments.

EXCITING OPPORTUNITY

The Town of San Anselmo is seeking applications for the full-time position of Senior Building Inspector in the Public Works and Building Department.  It is an exciting opportunity to work in a broad range of areas, to help shape the future of the Town.

The Department of Public Works maintains the Town’s infrastructure to support the community. With a staff of 15, the department is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the following public facilities: roads, parks, buildings, parking, equipment, and vehicle fleet. In addition, Town engineering, capital construction projects, and natural disaster response are also managed within the Public Works department.

THE POSITION

Typical duties of the Senior Building Inspector position include, but are not limited to:

• Make field inspections of buildings and public works permits to ensure compliance with approved plans, specifications, and applicable building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical codes, statutes, and regulations of the Town, county, state and federal agencies.
• Review, approve and issue permits for construction work.
• Check plans and specifications for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with codes and ordinances.
• Investigate code violations and complaints.
• Conduct residential resale inspections, prepare and issue reports upon the sale of all residential property.
• Perform re-inspections and follow-up as necessary to gain compliance.
• Provide information and guidance to the public regarding codes, ordinances, and the permitting process.
• Provide technical information and interpretations regarding codes, ordinances and compliance methods to contractors, builders, designers, and the general public.
• Resolve difficult and complex code interpretation, enforcement, and inspection problems, issues, and conflicts.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records, reports, and files.
• Write clear and concise letters as needed.
• Provide staff assistance to the public at the department’s service counter as needed.

 Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge and Abilities):

• Knowledge of state and local building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, energy, accessibility, and fire codes and local building, fire and zoning ordinances.
• Principles and techniques of building construction, building materials and accepted safety standards; Principles and techniques of building inspection.
• Ability to read, analyze and interpret building plans and specifications; understand, interpret and apply codes, ordinances, and regulations; communicate clearly and concisely in English, both orally and in writing.
• Use windows-based computer programs such as MS Word and Excel.
• Operate a car and pickup truck safely, back vehicle a long distance, and steer through narrow roadways and hillsides.

Experience and Training:

• Five years of progressively responsible experience in building inspection, including commercial inspection and/or plan check experience, of which two (2) years must be at full journey level.
• Three years of experience as a building inspector or related field involving inspection or code enforcement.
• Graduation from high school or equivalent to the completion of 12th grade – college training in the field of civil engineering, architecture, or building technology may be substituted for equivalent year of work experience. Associated of Arts degree preferred.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain within 3 months, a valid California driver’s license
• Possession of, or ability to obtain within 6 months, certification, through the International Code Council, as a California Residential Building Inspector- J1 and California Commercial Building Inspector- I1

Special Requirements/Physical Demands:

• On-site field inspections and office work require a moderate amount of physical agility. Intermittently walk, stand, twist, squat, kneel, climb, and bend both in the office and in the field.
• On a continuous basis, sit at a desk or stand at a counter to answer questions of the public.  Write by long hand and use a computer keyboard to communicate through written means.
• Frequently lift or carry a weight of up to 10 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds.
• The nature of the work requires the individual to climb 30’ to 40’ ladders or scaffolding to reach high areas such as roofs, balance on narrow walkways or steep-pitched roofs, crawl through narrow openings and in confined spaces.
• During inspections, the individual may be required to walk on uneven surfaces. Work will require exposure to intermittent uncomfortable working conditions such as dust, noise, and extreme cold or heat. Inspections are done out-of-doors year-round.