What are the responsibilities and job description for the Local Building Inspector position at City of Northampton, MA?
Department: Building Commissioner's Office
Job Status: Full-Time
Days Worked: Mon., Tue., Wed., Thu., Fri.
DEFINITION
Position is responsible, pursuant to the requirements of MGL Chapter 143, §3 and MGL 40A §7, for assisting the City’s Building Commissioner in performing inspectional, technical, and administrative work related to the enforcement and interpretation of the state building code, local zoning ordinances, and other applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Inspects buildings and alterations to buildings to prevent structural errors and for compliance with state building code; enforces City’s zoning ordinances.
- Reviews plans for building construction or alteration to determine compliance with state codes, City zoning ordinances, and other applicable laws and regulations.
- Performs annual inspections at schools to identify building/construction related issues, included but not limited to cracks in swimming pools.
- Investigates and documents complaints of alleged building code and zoning ordinance violations; takes appropriate action, including issuing “Stop Work” orders, as required.
- Issues notices and orders, and initiates legal action when necessary, to correct illegal or unsafe conditions and to ensure compliance with all Code requirements.
- Documents and logs all relevant information regarding inspections.
- Responds to inquiries from property owners, contractors, vendors and general public; explains building code and zoning ordinance provisions.
- Responds to emergencies related to buildings including damage, fires and natural disasters. Assists fire department and state fire marshal’s office in determining sources and causes of electrical fires.
- When required, takes enforcement actions in accordance with MGL 143, §§6-12
- Assists in staffing the City’s Emergency Operations Center during states of emergency.
- Stays current with evolving technologies and codes by attending continuing education and training seminars.
- Maintains status as Local Inspector by complying with continuing education and other requirements.
- Performs similar or related work as required.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
High School diploma, or equivalent and three years of experience in the supervision of building construction or design, or any equivalent combination of education and experience required. Associate degree in field related to building construction or design preferred;
Massachusetts Local Building Inspector Certification required.
Massachusetts Class D Driver’s License required.
Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License preferred.
Knowledge, Ability and Skills
Knowledge: Knowledge of materials and methods of building construction and of the state building code, local zoning ordinances and other applicable laws, rules, regulations and ordinances; specific and detailed knowledge of building construction and building code requirements; knowledge of federal OSHA and state WSPH workplace safety standards; knowledge of evolving technologies.
Abilities: Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and plans. Ability to interpret and enforce regulations firmly, tactfully and impartially. Ability to interact professionally and appropriately with the general public and members of the building community. Ability to use computer software for plan reviews, permitting, inspections, complaint tracking and retrieving property information.
Skills: Interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills; skilled in reviewing plans for building construction and alterations.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Some work is performed under typical office conditions; most work is performed in the field with exposure to various weather conditions as well as frequent exposure to varied conditions associated with inspections at construction sites and equipment. The employee may be required to work beyond normal business hours.
PHYSICAL, MOTOR, AND VISUAL SKILLS:
Physical Skills:
Administrative work is performed in an office setting requiring sitting, standing, walking. When in the field, inspections require agility and physical strength, such as moving in or about construction sites or over rough terrain, or standing or walking most of the work period. Occasionally, work may require lifting heavy objects and carrying them (up to 50 lbs.). There may be need to stretch and reach to retrieve materials.
Motor Skills:
The work will involve assignments requiring application of hand and eye coordination with finger dexterity and motor coordination, including the operation of electronic test equipment and simple hand tools.
Visual Skills:
Essential position functions require the ability to view blueprints, drawings and plans, the ability use equipment and tools, the ability to climb a ladder, the ability to visually inspect building interiors and exteriors, and the ability to operate a motor vehicle.
MISC. INFORMATION
- One (1) Full-Time Vacancy
- 40 Hours per week: Monday through Friday
- Salary Band H; Hourly Rate Range: $29.52-$38.75
- Anticipated Hiring Hourly Rate Range: $29.52-$33.40
Full Benefits and privileges are consistent with Northampton Association of Professional Employees (NAPEA) Association Collective Bargaining Agreement.
This job posting closes on Friday, May 10th at 4:30 p.m.
Salary : $30