Chief Building Official

Town of Vail • Vail, CO

1d • $113,506 - $170,259 • Onsite

About The Position

The Town of Vail is seeking an experienced and collaborative Chief Building Official to lead our Building Safety and Inspection Services division within the Community Development Department. This leadership role is responsible for protecting the health, safety, and welfare of our community by ensuring compliance with adopted building, plumbing, mechanical, and life-safety codes throughout all phases of construction and development. As Chief Building Official, you will oversee building inspections, plan review, permitting, code interpretation, and division operations while leading a team of inspectors and plans examiners. This role serves as a trusted advisor to staff, contractors, architects, engineers, homeowners, business owners, and Town leadership on complex building code matters and construction-related issues.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, construction/project management, or a closely related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in building code administration, inspections, plan review, construction management, or a closely related field.
• Certified Building Official (CBO) designation through the International Code Council (ICC), or ability to obtain/maintain as required.
• Minimum of four (4) ICC certifications, with preferred certifications including Building Plans Examiner, Building Inspector, Mechanical Inspector, and Plumbing Inspector.
• Valid Colorado Driver’s License (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Extensive knowledge of building construction practices, code compliance, permitting, inspections, and plan review processes.
• Strong understanding of International Code Council (ICC) code standards and municipal development regulations.
• Proven leadership experience managing teams, budgets, contracts, projects, and operational priorities.
• Strong interpersonal, customer service, and conflict-resolution skills with the ability to navigate complex and high-profile projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to explain technical code requirements in a practical, customer-friendly manner.
• Ability to exercise sound independent judgment, make defensible code interpretations, and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Building Safety and Inspection Services division, including supervision, coaching, performance management, and professional development of staff.
• Oversee the building permit process from application through project completion and certificate issuance.
• Interpret and administer adopted building, plumbing, mechanical, and related codes to ensure intent, compliance, and public safety.
• Manage commercial and residential plan review and inspection activities to verify code compliance for new construction, remodels, additions, and repairs.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, utility providers, homeowners, Town staff, and external agencies to facilitate efficient project delivery and problem solving.
• Support departmental operations including budgeting, strategic planning, policy implementation, code adoption, and process improvements.
• Serve as liaison to the Town’s Building and Fire Code Appeals Board and provide technical guidance on complex code interpretations.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer-paid retirement contributions and deferred compensation opportunities (401(a) and 457 plans)
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Wellness and employee support programs
• Professional development and certification support
• Employee housing assistance opportunities (when available)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager