Mechanical & Plumbing Chief (Chief Building Inspector)

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES

Performs supervisory and technical duties in verifying the work of code enforcement officials to ensure compliance with State building codes and local ordinances.   Each incumbent is the Chief Building Inspector of a unit within the Inspections division, specializing in one trade area - building, plumbing, electrical, gas or mechanical.

Ensures uniform enforcement of codes and makes code interpretations.  Supervises inspectors' performance of inspections for new construction, mobile home setup, remodeling repair, and replacement within the jurisdiction of Guilford County.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

The Chief Building Inspector manages and directs the assignment of daily workloads, the training and evaluating of inspectors, the administration of the policies and procedures of both the Department and the County with regards to obtaining compliance with applicable federal, state, and local codes and ordinances.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Supervises three or more full-time staff that includes coordinating trade inspections based on permits issued.

• Coordinates plumbing, mechanical and gas piping inspections permits issued.

• Responsible for training and certification of all inspectors for respective trade area(s).

• Investigate contractor and citizen complaints and concerns as related to code violations.

• Communicate with contractors, citizens, and utilities relating to violation of permits and expiration of temporary service for construction uses.

• Oversees building code administration which includes interpreting building codes, establishing policies for alternate construction methods; and coordinating activities with other agencies such as the State's Department of Insurance and the County's Fire Marshall's Office.

• Serves as liaison with respective trade/contractor associations.

• Performs specialized field inspections which include visiting construction projects, monitoring field inspections by employees; and in some instances, investigating accident sites for causes related to building design and construction.

• Performs work during emergency/disaster situations and may oversee the respective unit's response which includes, but not limited to, coordinating and recovery priorities.

• Performs complex plan/blueprint review for compliance with building codes and interpretation of code requirements that may include residential, institutional and/or commercial construction projects, as necessary.

• Conducts annual performance appraisals and administers disciplinary action, when necessary. Recommends merit increases and special pay for exemplary performance.

RECRUITMENT STANDARDS

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of modern construction principles and practices and building and structural design.

• Thorough knowledge of standards constituting the County Building Regulations, County Development Ordinance, Public Health Laws, and Safety Laws relative to the Inspections Department duties.

• Thorough knowledge of Federal, State, and Local codes and Regulations pertaining to inspections in respective trade(s) being supervised.

• Considerable knowledge of sources of current information available concerning construction practices and inspection techniques.

• Ability to understand and interpret plans and specifications.

• Ability to interpret and explain the codes and ordinances administered through the Inspections Department clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

• Ability to plan, supervise, and coordinate the work of others.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, associates, professional designers, contractors, owners, and the general public.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Graduation from high school or GED equivalency and five years of experience in respective trades, including at least five years of inspections experience. Supervisory experience preferred.

Must possess a Level III State Inspection Certificate in respective trade(s).

Special Requirements

• Possession of Standard Level III certificate(s) in the trade area as required by the NC Code Officials Qualifications Board.

• Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license.

• An oath of office is required and administered by the Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners.

Physical Demands and Work Conditions

Physical activities may include but are not limited to climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing and repetitive motions.  The types of activities are associated with driving to as a construction site and performing a visual and physical inspection of the work in progress.  In addition, basic record keeping and communication skills are necessary.

Driving is Essential

Driving is an essential requirement of this position whether driving a County owned or personal vehicle to conduct county business.  Motor Vehicle Reports may be verified for valid driver's license and that the driving record is compatible with the county's driving criteria.

If a personal vehicle is operated for county business proper insurance is maintained as per Guilford County's vehicle use policy.

Special Note:

This generic class description gives an overview of the job class, its essential job functions, and recommended job requirements.  However, for each individual position assigned to this class, there is available as a completed job questionnaire with as a physical abilities checklist which can give further details about that one specific position.  Those documents should be reviewed before initiating as a selection process.  They can provide additional detailed information on which to base various personnel actions and can assist management in making legal and defensible personnel decisions.