Commercial Building Inspector

City of Columbia•Columbia, SC

16h•Onsite

About The Position

This position inspects new construction and alterations of commercial, residential and other structures within the City for compliance with building codes and related regulations, and performs related work as assigned. Explains, interprets and provides guidance regarding applicable codes and compliance requirements to contractors, engineers, architects, developers, property owners and others. The incumbent works within a general outline of work to be performed, and develops work methods and sequences under general supervision. The work is considered light and involves walking or standing most of the time and involves exerting up to 20 pounds of force on a recurring basis, or skill, adeptness and speed in the use of fingers, hands or limbs on repetitive operation of mechanical or electronic office or shop machines or tools within moderate tolerances or limits of accuracy. The work requires the following physical abilities to perform the essential job functions: balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, feeling, fingering, grasping, handling, hearing, mental acuity, pulling, pushing, speaking, standing, talking, visual acuity, and walking. Work environment may involve exposure to dusts and pollen, extreme heat and/or cold, wet or humid conditions, fumes and/or noxious odors, toxic / caustic chemicals, traffic, electrical shock, heights, disease/pathogens; and spends time working in an environment where errors can lead to significant physical or mental consequences for one’s self and others.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED
Four (4) years of relevant prior experience
Valid South Carolina Class “D” Driver’s License
Certified or be able to be certified within one (1) year from date of hire or promotion by the International Codes Council as a Commercial Building Inspector (B2) and two additional certification (Plumbing P2, Mechanical M2 or Electrical E2) within 2 years of date of hire.
Must be registered with SCLLR within 30 days of hire.

Nice To Haves

Preference to obtain four certification for Combination Building Inspector status.

Responsibilities

Schedules and inspects new construction, alterations and repairs of residential, commercial and other structures to ensure structural safety and compliance with building codes
Inspects existing structures for compliance with life safety, mechanical, electrical and plumbing codes in order for business licenses to be issued
Prepares inspection reports
Prepares and issues notices of correction and stop work orders as necessary
Reports unsafe buildings because of structural weakness or potential fire hazard
Inspects fire-damaged buildings
Explains, interprets and provides guidance regarding applicable codes and compliance requirements to contractors, engineers, architects, developers, property owners and others
Follows up on each case to verify corrections have been made to comply with codes
Issues uniform ordinance summonses and prepares cases for prosecution in the event of non-compliance
Testifies in court as necessary
Participates in community services team efforts
Maintains a variety of logs and records related to inspection and enforcement activities
Maintains assigned vehicles and equipment
Receives and responds to inquiries, concerns, complaints and requests for assistance regarding areas of responsibility
Meets with the public and staff to coordinate essential tasks, related expected requirements and discuss relevant issues
Performs general clerical work as required, including preparing reports and correspondence, entering and retrieving computer data, copying and filing documents, answering the telephone, attending meetings, etc.
Provides training of other inspectors as assigned
Attends training, conferences, meetings, etc., to enhance job knowledge and skills and maintain certifications
Performs other related duties as assigned