Deputy Building Official

Job Summary

Under general direction reviews regulations, ordinances and technical literature relating to construction methods, materials and standards; reviews blueprints, site drawings and permit applications, prepares citations, correction notices and letters of completion as required; performs inspections of residential/commercial structures to ensure foundations, slabs, electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems are in compliance with regulations, inspects details of framing to ensure proper specifications are met; informs contractors and sub-contractors of codes and/or other violations, secures compliance before certifying completion or allowing construction to proceed; may initiate civil or criminal proceedings and performs additional duties in support of the department’s administration as needed or upon request. Supervises all code enforcement officers and as well as housing and property standards officer.

Duties & Responsibilities

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statement of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this position. Other duties may be required, assigned and expected aside from those set forth below to address operational needs and changing operational practices.

• Maintains proficiency by reviewing and studying regulations, ordinances and technical literature relating to construction methods, materials and standards.
• Coordinates with other codes enforcement personnel to plan activities.
• Reviews submitted blueprints, site drawing and permit application.
• Prepares and maintains field inspection record, shop drawings and daily log sheet.
• Prepares citations, correction notices, and letter of completion as required.
• Inspects location of structure on lot in regard to structure in regard to building lines and drainage. Inspects temporary service pole for appurtenances, grounding and safety.
• Inspects slab or conventional foundation for thickness, crawl space, footing, soil treatment and placement of vapor barriers.
• Inspects electrical rough-in for proper gage, outlets and connections prior to installation of drywall.
• Ensures that appropriate tests are conducted on under slab pipes and electrical conduit is conducted before concrete is poured.
• Inspects electrical circuits for proper grounding, installation of circuit breakers and placement of electrical fixtures. Inspects details of framing for proper size, placement and fastening of dimension lumber and/or trusses used in floor systems, walls and rafters.
• Inspects plumbing/HVAC systems for proper size, type and installation of water, sewer and gas lines and placement of vents and filters.
• Inspects duct work for heating and air conditioning system. Inspects furnaces, heat pumps and compressors for rating and proper installation.
• Inspects water heaters, toilets, dishwashers, disposal units and related plumbing fixtures for proper operation.
• Inspects connection to City sewer line.
• Inspects ranges and range hoods for proper operation, tests electrical circuits, and ensures that smoke detectors are installed and functioning properly.
• Ensures that panel boxes are properly labeled.
• Performs non-routine, specialized, technical or difficult inspections where in-depth knowledge of particular building trade is required.
• Performs inspections of commercial/industrial construction based on nature of facility, type of construction and special features.
• At any stage of construction, brings code or other violations to attention of contractor or subcontractor and attempts to gain voluntary compliance.
• Secures compliance before allowing construction to proceed or certifying completion, depending on situation.
• May arrest violator and initiate civil or criminal proceedings.
• Checks contractors, subcontractors and other individuals engaged in business for proper license.
• Makes informational presentations to contractors, architects and other professional groups.
• May advise homeowners on construction methods and standards relating to retaining walls, storage buildings, outdoor lighting and other construction
• projects not subject to code.
• May inspect existing buildings based on complaints or on request of Fire Marshall.

Qualifications

Education & Experience Guidelines
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities required for this position would be:

Education/Training
High School Diploma or GED required

Experience
Five (5) years experience as building inspector, engineer, architect or as a construction superintendent.

Licenses or Certifications Required
Certified as a peace officer within 6 months of employment; valid driver’s license

The following generally describes the knowledge and abilities required in order to successfully perform the assigned duties of the position:

Knowledge of:

• Concepts, principles and methods of residential and commercial construction.
• At least one building trade such as carpentry, electricity, or plumbing/HVAC.
• Working knowledge of all building trades.
• State laws and regulations, building codes and city ordinances.
• Policies and work rules of the City of Phenix City.

Ability to:

• Read to comprehend technical literature, ordinances, regulations, plans, specifications, reports, financial statements and related technical material.
• Write to prepare memoranda, letters, narrative reports and similar documents.
• Verbally communicate to explain technical material and gain compliance with codes and other regulations and speak in public.
• Utilize math skills to perform construction calculations such as voltage drops, pressure and water flow and loading.
• Utilize computer skills to use word processing, spreadsheet and building software programs. Utilize problem solving to apply building code requirements to construction techniques.
• Utilize interpersonal skills to effectively interact with a variety of people including citizens, engineers, architects and developers.
• Establish priorities and work from direction where general objectives are established.
• Use judgment to make sound technical decisions.
• Cooperate and work as a member of a team.

Physical Demands & Working Environment

The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations needed to perform the essential duties of this position.

Environment: Primarily in the field around construction, also indoors

Physical Demands: See accompanying page for details

Key Working Relationship: Contractors and Other Code Enforcement employees

Applications for this position will be accepted until a pool of 20 applications is received or the position is filled, whichever comes first. Current city employees wishing to apply should send Internal Job Application provided by the Human Resources Department to the HR Director by the deadline stated. (A courtesy copy will be sent to the employee’s department head.)

Documents Required

• Driver’s License
• Social Security Card
  
• High School Diploma / GED
• Birth Certificate
• DD214 if applicable

Applications can be found online (download an application) or picked up at the City of Phenix City Human Resources Department:
1103 Broad Street
Phenix City, AL 36867
Ph: 334 448-2706

Applications are available for pick up and drop off on Mondays from 2 to 5 p.m., Eastern Time, and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., Eastern Time. You may also email your completed application.