Job Description

Under general supervision, performs highly skilled inspection and compliance work to ensure adherence to applicable codes and regulations governing building, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems. This role involves thorough inspections of construction activities, alterations, and repairs to safeguard public safety and maintain code integrity.

Illustrative Examples of Work

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Reviews construction and site plans for compliance with County Construction Code and related ordinances; inspects new construction, renovations, and modifications for conformity with Polk County Construction Code requirements. Interprets and communicates code requirements to engineers, architects, contractors, property owners, and the general public; monitors relevant federal and state legislation to assess their impact on local regulations. Prepares code violation notices and submits compliance recommendations to the Building and Code Enforcement Supervisor for review. Prepares reports and documentation to support code enforcement activities. Conducts fire inspections at commercial or public facilities and prepares related compliance reports. Reviews Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP) and performs field inspection to ensure regulatory compliance; advises contractors and property owners on corrective actions. Attends training, seminars, and professional meetings to remain current on federal, state, and local regulations, codes and ordinances regarding Building Codes and techniques; may make public presentations. Performs related duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

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Considerable knowledge of the methods, materials, and techniques used in building, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical construction, including inspection, repair, and modification practices. Considerable knowledge of local, state, and federal codes, regulations, and laws governing building, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical construction. Ability to identify defective workmanship and materials, identify violations, and recommend corrective measures. Ability to read, interpret, and analyze plans, blueprints, technical drawings, specifications, and diagrams accurately. Ability to use persuasion, tact, and diplomacy to effectively resolve disputes. Ability to work independently with sound judgment. Ability to maintain detailed and organized inspection records for reporting and compliance purposes. Ability to apply mathematics and inspection formulas to real-world field situations. Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Ability to travel to remote work sites and physically perform inspections, including climbing ladders or stairs, walking or hiking on uneven terrain, and working outdoors in inclement weather. Ability to enter and maneuver within confined spaces, which may require kneeling, crouching, or crawling. Ability to lift equipment and materials weighting up to 75 pounds. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other County employees, skilled workers, building and property owners, contractors, and the public, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment.

Training and Experience

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Graduation from high school or equivalent, and Two years of college or technical training in Building or Engineering, Construction Technology, or related field, and Two years of experience in building inspections, or related field, or Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Obtain certification as a Residential Building Inspector (if not certified upon hire) and Residential Electrical Inspector (if not certified upon hire) by the International Code Council, or for electrical current Residential Electrical Inspector and Electrical-Master Inspector issued by the International Association of Electrical Inspectors is required within eighteen months of employment and must be maintained throughout employment. Certification as a Commercial Building Inspector issued by the International Code Council is required within two years of hire and must be maintained throughout employment. Certification as a Commercial Electrical Inspector issued by the International Code Council is required within two years of hire and must be maintained throughout employment.

Special Requirements:

Candidate must pass a post-employment offer physical examination and physical capacity testing to ensure candidate meets the essential physical requirements of the position. A criminal background check is required. A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment. A valid State of Iowa driver's license is required.
Polk County is committed to providing a diverse work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law. Polk County believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to our success in serving and empowering our community and to our continued commitment to be one of the nation's most innovative public institutions.