Building Inspector

Under general supervision of the Director of the Department of Public Works, this position is responsible for performing technical duties in conducting field inspections to ensure compliance with applicable Federal, State and Local Codes and Ordinances concerning building construction. Prospective employee must be able to read and interpret building codes, obtain/maintain International Code Council certifications, City of Lawrence Municipal Code, and other related regulations. Additionally, the successful candidate must be able to inspect construction-related activities, on both a reactive and proactive basis.

• Conducts field inspections of construction activity for multiple building-types to determine compliance with appropriate codes, ordinances and regulations.
• Review building plans and permits for general code compliance.
• Monitors active construction sites for posting of requisite permits and properly enforces non-compliance.
• Inspects ongoing construction projects to ensure construction proceeds in compliance with validly issued building permit.
• Reads and interprets adopted codes, technical manuals, drawings, instructions, and specifications as related to construction projects.
• Issues appropriate violation notices indicating code deficiencies, orders to stop work, and prepares orders forbidding occupancy of a structure or portion of a structure.
• Clearly communicates code violations to contractor on-site on a form as approved by the Department of Public Works.
• Actively works with contractors to discuss and/or alleviate code violations.
• Works with the general public at the permit counter and on the phone to answer basic code questions.
• Occasionally appears and testifies in court as a professional and expert witness as requested.
• Maintains and effectively organizes daily inspection reports, logs, and results.
• Performs follow-up inspections to verify compliance with issued violations and takes appropriate enforcement action to ensure compliance.
• Investigates complaints as assigned.
• Ability to interpret technical manuals and attends meetings/trainings to stay up-to-date with applicable codes and revisions to said codes.
• Conducts other field investigations, including infrastructure, high weeds and grass, trash, and environmental as assigned by supervisor.

Employees at all levels are expected to effectively work together to meet the needs of the organization and the community through work behaviors demonstrating the City’s Values. Employees are also expected to lead by example and demonstrate the highest level of ethics.

• Judgment and Decision Making -Uses logic and reasoning to analyze, understand, and evaluate complex situations.  Identifies the strengths and weaknesses of alternative approaches or solutions to a situation.  Exercises appropriate judgment in establishing priorities.  High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism in handling confidential information. Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

·     Interpersonal Relationships - Develops and maintains cooperative and professional relationships with employees at all levels, representatives from various departments, and outside agencies. Effectively responds to and resolves complex inquiries and disputes.

·         Computer Skills - Utilization of modern office technology, including but not limited to word processing, spreadsheet, and related software with reasonable speed and accuracy, as it is related to the position. 

·         Communication - Excellent ability to listen and understand information presented verbally and in writing.  Ability to handle a variety of issues with tact and diplomacy and in a confidential manner.

·         Coordination of Work - Ability to plan and organize a daily work routine and establish priorities for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management.

•  Ability to walk, stand, climb, crouch, and navigate uneven terrain, confined spaces, or high areas safely.
• Lift up to 50 pounds and closely inspect structures, requiring sharp visual acuity.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions and adapt to construction site environments with noise, dust, and equipment.
• Adhere to safety protocols and use tools/equipment for inspections.

• High School Diploma or Equivalent and minimum of three (3) years related work experience in construction industry required.
• Trade school certificate/apprenticeship and one (1) year related work experience in the building construction industry, or a college degree in construction management, construction technology, engineering, architecture or a related field preferred.
• International Code Council (ICC) certification as Residential Combination Inspector (Residential Building Inspector, Residential Electrical Inspector, Residential Mechanical Inspector, and Residential Plumbing Inspector), Commercial Combination Inspector (Commercial Building Inspector, Commercial Electrical Inspector, Commercial Mechanical, and Commercial Plumbing Inspector), and/or Fire Inspector I preferred.

• Must have a maintain a valid Driver's License to drive City vehicle.

• Ability to interpret construction drawings and specifications.

• Requires a background investigation to include a local,state,and federal criminal history check, sex offender registry, consumer report. 

•  Full-time, civilian, salary position.
•  Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and other Voluntary policies.
•  Paid Holidays, earned vacation and sick time.

 Note: This job description provides a general overview of the responsibilities and qualifications for the Financial Analyst II role within the Controller’s Office. The specific duties may vary based on the municipality's needs, structure, and existing processes.

 Updated 12/2024