Public Works Inspector (Pay Grade 20) AFSCME Local 1607

New Castle County Government•New Castle, DE

About The Position

Inspects construction and rehabilitation work on privately funded projects and New Castle County projects to ensure compliance with County codes and other applicable regulations and standards relating to construction and site work. Inspection areas include site grading and drainage, erosion and sediment controls, stormwater management, wastewater installation, park improvements, paving, and repair work. The role works with contractors, engineers, regulatory agencies, and the public, and requires independent judgment and initiative in field situations. The employee works under general supervision and must keep current with technical developments and engineered systems in construction and attend training as required. The inspector documents inspected work, reports and addresses unsatisfactory conditions and code violations, participates in project meetings, coordinates final inspections, and may assist supervisors with final decisions. The position also maintains records of contractor-payable quantities, prepares information for legal cases, and may testify in court. Work includes operating a data processing terminal, personal computer, and related equipment.

Requirements

At least three years of experience in a responsible sub-professional engineering position in highway, heavy construction, or building work, and completion of a standard high school course or GED certificate program; or an equivalent combination of experience and training providing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Possession of a valid Delaware Class D driver's license or equivalent.
Ability to pass a Class III County physical examination.
Thorough knowledge of construction work.
Good knowledge of codes and ordinances relating to construction.
Some knowledge of modern civil engineering principles and practices.
Some knowledge of erosion and sediment control, stormwater management, and lines and grades.
Ability to read and interpret plans, specifications, and blueprints.
Ability to communicate courteously and effectively, verbally and in writing.
Ability to obtain contractors’ cooperation and maintain effective working relationships with contractors, engineers, other agencies, and the public.
Ability to maintain current knowledge of technical developments in construction.
Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare related reports.

Responsibilities

Inspect construction and rehabilitation work on privately funded and County projects for compliance with applicable codes, regulations, standards, plans, and specifications.
Inspect wastewater infrastructure, ditches, pipes, stormwater facilities, parks, paving, and other construction work; conduct or observe acceptance testing.
Meet with members of the public to investigate complaints concerning projects, grading, drainage, sewer and septic systems, and erosion or sediment problems.
Report unsatisfactory work and conditions that interfere with construction.
Consult with contractors, engineers, and architects about construction problems.
Produce inspection reports and prepare and submit special reports.
Follow internal inspection processes and procedures and, when needed, assist supervisors in making final decisions.
Make field decisions concerning erosion and sediment controls, trench conditions, materials, and compliance with standards and approved plans.
Work with engineers on planned erosion and sediment controls and their feasibility.
Work with representatives of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control to review problem areas, enforce compliance, and refer sites to a supervisor when needed.
Issue notices for violations and post stop-work orders in accordance with departmental policy; administer and follow up on code violations to ensure correction and compliance.
Attend pre-construction meetings for private development and County construction and rehabilitation projects.
Coordinate scheduling of final inspections for project acceptance by New Castle County.
Inspect areas of responsibility for unpermitted construction, initiate action to achieve compliance, and report non-conformance to an appropriate supervisor.
Prepare code-violation data for legal cases and testify in court as required.
Maintain current knowledge of technical developments and engineered systems in construction.
Maintain records of quantities of payable items used by contractors to support verification of payment estimates.
Schedule and attend progress meetings to keep other agencies informed about project status.
Attend required training courses and promote excellent public service for internal and external customers.
Operate a data processing terminal, personal computer, and related equipment.