Building Commissioner

Allen County Indiana•Fort Wayne, IN

About The Position

Under the direction of the Allen County Board of Commissioners, the Building Commissioner provides leadership and manages and operates the Building Department, using its assets and resources to accomplish departmental objectives. The position is classified as executive, exempt, and at-will (not covered) under the Allen County Handbook. The Building Commissioner oversees building-code administration, including interpretation, project review, and enforcement, as well as contractor permits, licenses, and inspections. The role also includes departmental financial planning and budgeting, strategic planning, program development, staff training and supervision, and reporting on permit data and its economic impact. The Commissioner responds to complaints and public inquiries, attends association and neighborhood meetings, and works with professional organizations, public officials, and contractors. The work takes place in both office and field settings, including construction sites and inspection areas. It involves exposure to varied weather and typical construction-site and inspection hazards, and may require lifting up to 50 pounds, reaching overhead, kneeling, climbing ladders, bending, and walking on uneven surfaces. The Commissioner supervises Building Department activities and works closely with the Assistant Building Commissioner.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least eight years of experience in commercial or residential construction, such as roofing, siding, drywall, commercial concrete, or similar relevant work.
Valid driver's license for frequent travel in a county vehicle to construction sites and other locations.
Valid Allen County Contractor's License or an equivalent license from another jurisdiction as a commercial contractor.
Obtain a valid Inspector Certification within the first year of employment.
Comprehensive knowledge of construction trades and familiarity with state and local building codes.
Strong interpersonal skills to handle and resolve concerns raised by staff, contractors, and citizens.
Proficiency in budgeting and accounting principles.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including delivering presentations and corresponding with elected officials, department heads, and the public.
Ability to ensure adherence to departmental policies and procedures.
Management skills, including the ability to train others.
Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and other software relevant to the job.

Responsibilities

Lead, manage, and operate the Building Department and use its assets and resources to meet departmental objectives.
Supervise implementation of building codes, including interpreting codes, reviewing projects, and ensuring compliance.
Monitor and document the quantity and categories of permits, assess their economic impact, and provide relevant reports.
Manage departmental financial planning and budgeting.
Oversee issuance of permits and licenses to contractors and related inspection activities.
Conduct strategic planning, program development, and training initiatives.
Supervise staff and handle employee relations, including hiring, training, performance evaluation, corrective measures, and termination when required.
Address complaints and public inquiries about building codes, and attend association and neighborhood meetings.
Engage with professional organizations, state and local building officials, contractors, county employees, and the public.
Perform additional duties as assigned.