Building Services Code Consultant/Plans Examiner

ABOUT US

Community Developments Building Services Division plays a key role in shaping the future of Rapid City by overseeing all aspects of building and development. From reviewing plans and enforcing building codes to issuing permits and conducting inspections, we ensure that every project meets the highest standards. Our team also provides expert staff support for the Building Code Board of Appeals and offers a diverse range of development services, including transportation planning, air quality inspections, annexation studies, and historic preservation. We're here to guide and support every step of your project’s journey!

For more information, please visit the Community Development page.

The City of Rapid City offers fantastic benefits including 2 healthcare options with low premiums, 6% employer-matching retirement, life insurance benefits, short-term disability, and generous vacation and sick leave.  Check out the Benefits tab for a full list of benefits.This position is part of the AFSCME Union.  Applications received within the work unit will be considered first.
ABOUT OUR JOB

Building Services Code Consultant/Plans Examiner is responsible for administering the compliance of codes, rules, and regulations governing the building construction industry, including the International Building Code, International Residential Code, International Existing Building Code, and ANSI codes and standards, and to supervise and coordinate Building Inspection staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Performs residential, commercial, and industrial plan reviews and prepares the necessary reports to ensure compliance with construction codes and regulations by determining the use and occupancy classification and type of construction; establishing maximum areas, height limitations, proper yardage, and fire-resistive construction; reviewing all footing, foundation, wall, and roof structural assemblies to ensure that all load combinations from dead loads to lateral loads are in compliance with standard engineering practices and appropriate codes; examining plans to ensure that all life safety and fire protection systems are provided; reviewing assemblies to ensure that fire-resistive elements meet the standards for the type of construction; ensuring plans meet disability accessibility standards; reviewing material specifications to ensure the design strengths and durability of materials used meet the specification(s) for the intended use, loads, and exposures; ensuring that construction documents for uses (which meet specific threshold limits established by the state) have been prepared and sealed by design professionals licensed in the state of South Dakota. 
• Coordinates the Building Inspectors. Reviews and monitors permits issued and inspections to ensure that field inspections are properly conducted and recorded, and that International Building Code, International Residential Code, International Existing Building Code, and ANSI code compliance is consistently applied. 
• Makes recommendations relating to hiring, discharge, layoff, suspension, disciplinary action, adjustment of grievances, and performance evaluations. 
• Performs inspections/monitors and aids in the progress of complex facilities. Responds to inquiries and concerns from designers, contractors, and the general public regarding building codes and ordinances, inspections, and other related issues. Settles disputes between designers, contractors, the public, and staff regarding interpretation of adopted codes to determine the best way to resolve issues. 
• Acts as technical advisor on matters regarding structural engineering, accessibility, and fire and life-safety architectural standards. 
• Reviews, researches, and prepares the most recent International Building Code, International Residential Code, International Existing Building Code, and ANSI codes to update and amend for preparation for adoption. Recommends and develops local code amendments. 
• Consults and coordinates plan reviews with other departments before permit issuance. 
• Prepares permit applications and calculates fees for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, sign building permits, other miscellaneous permits and issue permits. 
• Reviews and forwards unresolved complaints and code violations to the Building Official. 
• Acts as the Building Official in their absence relating to the technical and administrative interpretations and decisions of the International Building Code, International Residential Code, International Existing Building Code, and ANSI codes.

ABOUT YOU

We recognize that your time is valuable and encourage you to apply if you meet the qualifications outlined below.  Join our team and contribute your expertise in building code enforcement to ensure compliance, safety, and excellence in construction standards.

Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in architecture, civil engineering, construction management or similar field.
• Minimum of four (4) years experience in municipal building code enforcement, including plan, review, inspections, and compliance assessments. 
• A combination of education and relevant experience that equips you for the responsibilities of the role will also be considered.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

• Must possess International Building Code Certification as a Plans Examiner and Building Inspector. 
• Must possess a valid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days from date of hire. 

Salary : $61,364 - $82,160