Building Inspector I
About The Position
The Building Inspector conducts inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects to ensure compliance with adopted building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, fuel gas, and other applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations. The role reviews permit applications and construction documents, performs field inspections, documents findings, and works with contractors, property owners, and design professionals to support safe, code-compliant construction throughout the City. Working under the general supervision of the Chief Building Official, the Building Inspector also investigates complaints, assists with enforcement of municipal regulations, maintains inspection and permit records, and provides information about permits, code interpretations, and inspection procedures. The position requires field work outdoors in varying weather conditions and physical activity such as walking over uneven terrain, climbing ladders, entering confined spaces, and lifting and carrying inspection-related equipment and materials.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- Valid Alabama driver’s license and ability to maintain an acceptable driving record.
- Working knowledge of building construction methods, materials, codes, ordinances, and safety practices.
- Ability to read and interpret construction plans, blueprints, engineering drawings, specifications, plats, and site plans.
- Ability to detect code violations and evaluate construction for compliance with applicable regulations.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to maintain effective working relationships with contractors, property owners, design professionals, elected officials, City staff, and the public.
- Proficiency with computers, permitting software, inspection management systems, and related office technology.
- Ability to prepare accurate reports, maintain records, and document inspection findings.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to walk over uneven terrain, climb ladders, enter confined spaces, and inspect structures under construction.
- Ability to lift and carry equipment and materials commonly associated with inspection duties.
- Ability to perform field inspections involving standing, walking, bending, stooping, climbing, and other physical activities for extended periods.
Nice To Haves
- Additional coursework or training in construction technology, building inspection, code enforcement, or a related field.
Responsibilities
- Conduct inspections of residential, commercial, and industrial construction at various stages to verify compliance with applicable codes and regulations.
- Review permit applications, construction plans, site plans, specifications, and related documents for compliance with codes and ordinances.
- Perform foundation, framing, structural, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, final occupancy, and other required inspections.
- Identify code violations and deficiencies and provide written and verbal guidance on corrective actions.
- Issue inspection reports and maintain records of inspections, violations, corrective actions, and permit activities.
- Investigate complaints concerning building code violations, unsafe structures, construction activities, and other matters within the department’s jurisdiction.
- Assist contractors, architects, engineers, developers, and property owners with permit requirements, code interpretations, inspection procedures, and regulatory compliance.
- Coordinate inspections with contractors, utility providers, and other City departments as needed.
- Assist with enforcement of zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, nuisance abatement requirements, and other municipal regulations as assigned.
- Maintain inspection schedules and enter permit, inspection, and enforcement information into departmental software systems.
- Respond to citizen inquiries and concerns regarding construction projects, permits, and code requirements.
- Attend departmental meetings, training, and professional development programs to maintain current knowledge.
- Provide recommendations to the Chief Building Official regarding code interpretations, enforcement actions, and process improvements.
- Perform related duties as assigned.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
