Combination Building Inspector

The City of Inver Grove Heights seeks an experienced Combination Building Inspector to join an excellent team!  The Combination Inspector is responsible for conducting field inspections and plan reviews of both commercial and residential to interpret and enforce provisions of the MN State Building Codes to ensure all structures are safe and habitable through plan reviews, code research, and field inspections to enforce building codes.

This is a full-time position that offers the stability of regular hours and a comprehensive benefits package (please see the Benefits Tab on this posting for details). The estimated 2025 hiring range for the position is $38.94 to $43.46/hr., pending completion of AFSCME union negotiations. This position will remain open until filled.

Conducts commercial and residential plan reviews.  Performs such tasks as:

• Reviews all plans and submittal documents for building code compliance.
• Researches and utilizes code books, manufacturer specifications and product data sheets.
• Verifies all construction plans meet the minimum requirements for building codes and identifies any changes or corrections to plan documents when code provisions are not met.

Conducts code research, education and investigation into plumbing, mechanical, energy, fire and existing building codes and industry standards adopted by the State of MN.

Conducts compliance field inspections of commercial and residential construction.  Administers, interprets and enforces provisions of the MN Building Code including state building, residential, plumbing, mechanical, fuel and gas, commercial and residential energy, accessibility and existing building codes.
 
Conducts a variety of customer service and public relation duties involving the interaction with various stakeholders concerning construction projects and to interpret, communicate and resolve any disputes concerning code requirements, zoning, and/or engineering information to facilitate and promote safety and compliance with codes. Interacts with architects, engineers, contractors, developers, state and county agencies in the enforcement and compliance of building and safety codes.  

Performs other duties of a comparable level or type, as required. 

Requires a minimum of an AA Degree or Vocational Degree in a construction trade, building inspection technologies, construction management, architecture and 3 years inspection experience or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience to total 5 years.  Requires a valid driver's license, such as to conduct field inspections (City vehicle is provided).  Must have or obtain a MN State Building Official Limited License within the first 12 months of employment.  The Department may require additional licenses or certificates after employment depending upon job assignments and needs of the department (i.e. MPCA Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems License).

Desired qualifications include: Minnesota licensed Master Plumber, MPCA licensed SSTS Inspector, MN Building Official Limited License, ICC certifications.Essential Knowledge And Specialized Subject Knowledge Required To Perform The Essential Functions Of The Job:

• Knowledge of Uniform Building Codes, State and local codes and regulations.
• Knowledge of all types of building construction materials.
• Knowledge of soils and ADA regulations and requirements as it pertaining to building construction/plan reviews.
• Extensive knowledge of building construction, mechanical, plumbing, energy, septic systems, and electrical processes, standards and codes.
• Knowledge of inspection practices, procedures and processes.
• Departmental policies, procedures and operational practices. 

If required and assigned septic inspections, knowledge may also be required in the following areas:

• Knowledge concerning the construction and operation of individual sewage treatment systems and larger pretreatment and filtration sewage systems.
• Knowledge of Minnesota Rules Chapter 7080 and other State and local codes, rules, and regulations relating to SSTS.
• Septic, waste treatment and soil testing procedures and requirements.
• Basic understanding of sewage treatment process and laboratory testing results/outcomes. 

Essential Skills Necessary To Perform The Work: 

• Oral and written communications.
• Interpreting, applying and enforcing codes, ordinances, policies, procedures providing framework for completion of job responsibilities.
• Conducting plan reviews and assuring plans conform to applicable codes and requirements.
• Negotiating, explaining and working with landowners, architects, builders, contractors, brokers, engineers, state and county representatives concerning enforcement of rules, requirements and ordinances, as necessary.
• Maintaining files, records, plans, documents and activities in accordance with department requirements.
• Time management
• Conflict resolution.
• Provides inspections consistent with all regulatory and applicable safety standards.
• Basic computer skills and use of business productivity software/applications.

Work Environment:
Essential duties are performed both in a normal city office and at various construction sites in the performance of field inspections.  Duties may involve exposure to heights, electrical and chemical hazards, construction debris; trenches, moving equipment/traffic, and various weather conditions.  Duties may involve some disagreeable human interactions making the job less than desirable.

Physical Job Requirements:
Employee is frequently required to walk, stand, and sit; and continuously talk, listen and hear, sit, reach with and use hands/fingers dexterously; and on occasion climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl in the performance of the job.  Exerting up to 25 lbs. pounds of force periodically and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body. 

Salary : $39 - $49