Building Code Engineer

City of Vancouver•Vancouver, BC

20h•Onsite

About The Position

The Building Code Engineer is responsible for complex advisory work which involves making independent and technical interpretations and decisions on behalf of the Chief Building Official with regard to the Vancouver Building By-law and Vancouver Fire By-law (code) as they relate to permitting. This position oversees the sprinkler permit process in the Building Review Branch and ensures that all required information is provided by the Professional Engineer or fire protection applicant for Sprinkler Permit Applications submitted through this technical stream. This position also plans, coordinates and directs the activities of the Project Coordinators engaged in fire protection plans examination and sprinkler permit issuance.

Requirements

Degree in Civil, Fire Protection or Mechanical Engineering with registration or eligibility for registration as a Professional Engineer in the province of BC.
Considerable experience in plans examination and interpretation of the Building By-law, Fire By-law, BC Building Code, NFPA standards, and other relevant codes and standards.
Complete understanding of intent and purpose of the Building By-law and Fire By-law and associated by- laws, codes and standards and their appropriate interpretation.
Familiarity with building design and materials.
Experience in fire protection measures for high buildings.
Leadership, mentoring and supervisory experience.
Superior verbal and written communications skills to deal effectively with the public and design professionals.
Understanding and familiarity of the City of Vancouver Building and Development process.

Nice To Haves

Preference given to those completing the Certified Professionals Program through Engineers and Geoscientists of BC (EGBC) and Architectural Institute of BC (AIBC).

Responsibilities

Authorizes Sprinkler Permit Issuance (compliance with the Building By-law and related NFPA standards).
Comments, interprets and applies the intent and purpose of the Building By-law and related NFPA standards to projects as required.
Manages sprinkler permit applications and completes direct technical review of complex projects.
Resolves questions and problems from Professional Engineers and fire protection designers/contractors and from novice general public.
Works with CBO staff to provide detailed technical analysis of Alternative Solutions.
Facilitates discussions with design professionals, consultants, contractors and developers regarding the interpretation of various by-laws, codes, standards and guidelines and assisting applicants in understanding the regulations that affect construction and plans approval.
Provides specialized advice and answers technical questions from the City’s Inspection, Fire Services and Engineering staff.
Supervises and mentors several specialized technical staff (Project Coordinators), providing technical guidance and training; authorizes issuance of their permits.
Advises the CBO’s office on policy and code issues and proposes amendments.
Completes occasional building inspection and site inspection.
Other duties/responsibilities as assigned.