Plans Examiner/Building Inspector I

City of AuburnAuburn, WA
Onsite

About The Position

The City of Auburn Community Development department is looking for a talented Plans Examiner / Building Inspector I to add to our team! This position performs technical work in the inspection of building and site improvements, including structural, plumbing, and mechanical construction for compliance with adopted building codes, local ordinances, applicable regulations, and approved plans/specifications. The position also assists with permit review activities and may perform residential and limited commercial plan review assignments under the guidance of senior staff. The position serves as an entry-level role designed to develop the knowledge, skills, certifications, and experience necessary for increasingly complex inspection and plan review responsibilities. This entry-level position offers an opportunity for increasing level of responsibilities and professional development. Advancement to Plans Examiner/Building Inspector II is contingent upon demonstrated proficiency in inspection duties, successful completion of assigned plan review activities (checklist), acquisition of required certifications, and the operational needs of the department.

Requirements

  • Knowledge of codes and regulations both at state and local levels: Expertise in building codes, zoning ordinances, and safety standards.
  • Technical Understanding: Strong familiarity with construction methods structural design principles, and plan review processes.
  • Inspection technique: Ability to conduct daily thorough on-site inspections construction projects to ensure code compliance.
  • Problem solving: Ability to identify building code violations and provide a detailed written report to ensure code compliance.
  • Customer service: Ability to interact professionally with contractors, developers, homeowners, and the general public to address concerns and provide guidance.
  • Adaptability: Ability to work in varying environmental conditions and respond to changing priorities.
  • Technology proficiency: Competence in using inspection software and tools to document and record findings.
  • Two (2) years of college-level course work in building technology or related field and two (2) years of journey-level experience in general building construction.
  • Experience as a Building Inspector or Plans Examiner in a public agency may substitute for the education and experience on a year for year basis OR any combination of experience, certification, training, and/or education that demonstrates the ability to successfully perform the essential duties of the position.
  • Possess and retain a valid state driver's license without impending loss at time of appointment.
  • Certifications from the International Code Council (ICC) as a Residential Building Inspector and Commercial Building Inspector OR applicant required to obtain certifications within first year of employment.

Responsibilities

  • Inspect structural, plumbing, and mechanical installations for compliance with the appropriate codes, applicable regulations, and approved plans and specification.
  • Perform inspections independently but conducts plan review assignments under general supervision and guidance from senior staff.
  • Initiate discussions with contractors and property owners related to construction corrections, when necessary.
  • Understand construction drawings and construction principles and independently reads and interprets construction plans, blueprints, schematic drawings, and construction specifications in both electronic and paper forms.
  • Maintain current knowledge, and engages in continuing education, of building construction technology and codes including standards, practices, and methods of all types of residential and commercial construction.

Benefits

  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision plans with employee premiums paid by the City
  • Employer contributions to the State Retirement System pension plans
  • 12 days of paid vacation per year
  • 11 paid holidays per year
  • 2 paid floating holidays of your choice per year
  • VEBA (tax-free health savings account)
  • Optional Flexible Spending benefit plan
  • Deferred Compensation plan options
  • Employee Wellness Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
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