BUILDING INSPECTOR inspects initial construction and additional repairs to ensure adherence to contract specifications, building ordinances, and zoning laws. May be assigned to residential or commercial structures. Being a BUILDING INSPECTOR may require an advanced degree. Typically reports to supervisor or manager. The BUILDING INSPECTOR works on projects/matters of limited complexity in a support role. Work is closely managed. To be a BUILDING INSPECTOR typically requires 0-2 years of related experience. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)
This position is in the District of Columbia Department of Buildings (DOB), within the division of the Office of Construction and Building Standards (OCBS). The mission of the Department of Buildings is to protect the safety of residents, businesses, and visitors and
advance the development of the built environment through permitting, inspections, and code enforcement. OCBS is responsible for ensuring public and private sector safety in the District of Columbia through inspection record management; code compliance, occupancy and zoning inspections for all buildings and structures; maintenance of issued building/trade permits; and enforcement of illegal construction activity, all in accordance with the adopted DC Construction Codes and referenced standards.
The Building Code Inspector acts as an agent of the Chief Building Official; and is the frontline field personnel executing the primary mission of the OCBS. The work requires accurate code administration and enforcement for active construction projects in the District; preparation of electronic reports of all inspections; and to conduct fact-finding field investigations for evidence of compliance with local regulations.
The position performs senior level on-site inspections (routine and complex) and prepares inspection reports indicating compliance or non-compliance with the approved permits listing codes citations, using plans and applicable codes within the scope of his/her certification(s).
Duties and Responsibilities
Incumbents performs on-site inspections of residential and commercial construction sites or projects to ensure that each aspect of construction, alteration, and/or repair complies with all applicable District codes and regulations, as well as the approved building permits,
plans, and specifications. Work with other inspectors to train and enhance knowledge of other inspectors through prepared classes and field site visits. Prepares written and electronic inspection reports indicating the location of inspected area, compliance, or non-compliance with approved permits, plans and/or applicable codes. Inspection reports clearly articulate any required corrections based on inspection of the construction work, or that is necessary for the contingent approval of the work.
Issues Stop Work Orders, Notices of Infraction, and/or Correction Orders as applicable for non-conforming work or illegal construction activity. Incumbent uploads inspection result data into DOB databases an electronic file on a daily basis and maintains files that are legally defensible records of all inspections and code violations. Assists in the investigation, research, and resolution of citizen complaints regarding the construction, alteration, and/or repair of buildings or structures related to code compliance. Incumbent evaluates complaints concerning code violations; identifies and documents building violations; prepares and issues notices to comply; follows up on all corrective action by reviewing and re-inspecting construction sites to assure corrections have been made as required.
Qualifications and Education
Specialized experience is experience which is directly related to the position and has equipped the individual with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. To be creditable, applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression.
Licenses and Certifications
Possession and maintenance of an ICC Commercial Combination Inspector Certification, which includes Commercial Building (B2), Commercial Electrical (E2), Commercial Mechanical (M2), and Commercial Plumbing (P2) issued by the International Code Council (ICC); AND an ICC Residential Combination Inspector Certification, which includes Residential Building (B1), Residential Electrical (E1), Residential Mechanical (M1), and Residential Plumbing (P1) Possession and maintenance of the ICC Fire Inspector I (66) Certification.
Possession and maintenance of the ICC Accessibility Inspector/Plans Examiner (21) Certification. Possession and maintenance of the ICC Residential Energy Inspector/Plans Examiner (79) Certification.
All Certifications must be maintained per ICC requirements and are the financial responsibility of the Inspector.
Working Conditions/Environment
The work is performed in an office which is adequately heated, lighted, and ventilated as well as in the field completing inspections. Field inspections may be performed in inclement weather, under adverse conditions, and in unusual places. Soil and mud may be encountered when yards, vacant land and exterior structures are inspected. The incumbent occasionally encounters dust, solid waste, flooded areas, contaminated water, mold, mildew, and vermin during inspections. Normal safety precautions must be observed at all times.
This position requires exposure to construction sites and the safety issues at each site. At many sites the incumbent is required to wear safety equipment such as a hard hat, safety vest, eye, and hearing protection, and/or steel toe safety shoes.
Other Significant Facts
First Screening Date: May 10, 2024
Tour of Duty: Monday - Friday 8:15AM- 4:45PM
Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-1801-13
Promotion Potential: No Known Promotion Potential
Collective Bargaining Unit (Union): This position is covered under a collective bargaining unit AFGE 2725 and you may be required to pay an agency service fee through direct payroll deduction.
Position Designation: The incumbent of this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel Regulations, Suitability – Safety Sensitive.
EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.