Building Division Manager

City of Highland Park•Highland Park, IL

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

Manages the operations of the Building Division, including permitting, plan review, inspections, and property maintenance enforcement. Ensures compliance with local, state, and federal building codes and ordinances; provides technical expertise and customer service to developers, contractors, and residents; and leads staff and third-party vendors to deliver efficient, consistent, and high-quality building services in accordance with industry best practices. Reports directly to the Deputy Director of Community Development with general supervision from the Director of Community Development. Directly supervises the Senior Plan Examiner/Inspector and Senior Inspector, and Customer Service Supervisor. Provides oversight of plan review, permitting services, customer service, and third-party contracts related to plan review, inspections, and permitting. Provides detailed information or guidance to staff in the delivery of service and resolution of problems.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Construction Management, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
Three to five years of experience as a building inspector or in a related construction field, plus three to five years of supervisory or managerial experience.
Valid driver’s license.
Relevant International Code Council (ICC) certifications required.
Strong knowledge of building codes, zoning regulations, and related ordinances.
Ability to review plans, interpret codes, and enforce requirements firmly, tactfully, and impartially.
Broad technical expertise in plan review and building inspection.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work effectively with residents, contractors, staff, and officials.
Ability to identify solutions and alternatives in code compliance.
Commitment to customer service and collaborative problem-solving.
Proficiency in database systems and Microsoft Office applications.

Nice To Haves

Municipal or governmental experience preferred.
Certified Building Official (CBO) preferred.
LEED AP certification desirable.

Responsibilities

Manage the operations of the Building Division, including plan review, field inspections (including Fire Prevention services), enforcement, and customer service.
Oversee third-party contracts and ensure accurate recordkeeping for all permits and inspections.
Maintain quality control for compliance with codes, regulations, and ordinances.
Supervise staff performance, including hiring, training, evaluating, and coaching.
Develop staff goals and objectives, conduct evaluations, and address performance issues.
Promote professional growth and continuous improvement in service delivery.
Develops and coordinates appropriate ongoing staff training.
Provide technical advice and interpretation of building and property maintenance codes.
Advise architects, engineers, contractors, homeowners, and City staff.
Exercise sound judgment in interpreting and enforcing code provisions and resolving disputes.
Coordinate Building Division activities with the Planning Division and other City functions, including Public Works, Fire, and Finance.
Oversee compliance with specialized ordinances, including sign, design review, historic preservation, drainage and floodplain, zoning, and steep slope regulations.
Develop and recommend amendments to building, property maintenance, and related codes.
Prepare reports and studies, participate in public meetings, and contribute to the development and monitoring of the division budget.
Serve as Zoning Administrator as delegated.
Attend meetings, conferences, and seminars to maintain certifications and remain current with industry best practices.
Provide support to staff advising land use boards and commissions, as needed.
Serve as Zoning Administrator as delegated, and provide board and commission support, as needed.