What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Building Official position at SAN BENITO COUNTY, CA?
Chief Building Official
SAN BENITO COUNTY, CA
481 4th St., Hollister, California 95023 United States
Posted: Mar 26, 2025
Salary: $104,915.20 - $140,608.00 Annually USD
Full Time
Administration and Management
Building Maintenance
Building and Safety
Construction and Skilled Trades
Description
THIS POSTING MAY CLOSE AT ANYTIME AND WILL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL FILLED.
Under general direction, to plan, organize, direct, and coordinate the building inspection and building code enforcement functions of the County; to train, supervise, and evaluate the work of subordinate staff; to provide consultation for building ordinance revision and development; to perform the most complex and sensitive inspection, plan review, and code enforcement work; to approve building permits; to answer questions regarding code enforcement and structural requirements for the public, architects, contractors, and engineers; and to do related work as required.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is a single position classification for themed-level management position, which provides direction and supervision for the County's building inspection, plan checking, and code enforcement functions. The incumbent administers a comprehensive building plan check and inspection program in the County's unincorporated areas through the enforcement of Federal, State and County codes, ordinances and regulations. Determines occupancy classification of buildings. Interprets building codes, makes final professional and technical determinations for building permit issuance and code enforcement.
REPORTS TO
Director Of Building and Planning
CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED
Building Inspector I, II, III
Code Enforcement Officer I, II, III
Permit Technician
TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in office, outdoor, and driving environments; some assignments performed alone in remote locations; work is performed in varying temperatures; exposure to dust, chemicals, and gases; exposure to electrical currents; continuous contact with staff and the public.
TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; ability to walk in uneven terrain and on slippery surfaces; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; ability to crawl through various areas requiring movement on hands and knees; ability to climb, stoop, crouch, and kneel; lift and move objects weighing up to 50 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX; operate an automobile.
Example of Duties
(The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.)
Plans, organizes, directs, and manages the County's building inspection, plan checking, and code enforcement functions
Supervises, trains, and evaluates assigned staff
Develops a unit budget and controls expenditures
Provides major input in the development and revision of County building ordinances
Develops and recommends changes in fee schedules
Serves on special committees and task forces
Oversees the development and maintenance of building inspection records
Performs the most complex and sensitive building inspection, plan checking, and enforcement functions
Provides consultation and assists staff with work problems and assignments
Approves the issue of building permits; provides advice and consultation to the public, contractors, architects, and engineers
Represents the County Building Inspection functions and policies with the Board of Supervisors, community organizations, other government agencies, and the general public.
Minimum Qualifications
Training and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
Five years of responsible building inspection experience, preferably including experience in a lead, supervisory, or management position.
Special Requirements:
Possession or ability to obtain building inspector/plans examiner certification by I ICBO/ICC as a building inspector
Ability to obtain certification as a California Building Official (CALBO)
Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.
Knowledge Of/Ability To
Knowledge of:
Thorough knowledge of the uniform codes effecting building inspection
Thorough knowledge of construction methods, building materials and tools and safety standards used in the general construction trades
Thorough knowledge of State and County regulations relating to the technical requirements for building permit applications and collection of fees for same
Building codes and ordinances enforceable by the County
Principles of mathematics related to the building trades.
Inspection methods and procedures
County code enforcement policies
Plan checking and review.
Working knowledge of principles and practices of management, supervision, training and employee evaluation
Working knowledge if seismic and energy considerations in the design and construction of building and structures
Some knowledge of the application of data processing to building inspection operations
Knowledge of the functional responsibilities of the planning process
Ability to:
Plan, organize, manage, and direct County building inspection, plan checking, and code enforcement functions.
Provide supervision, training, and work evaluation to assigned staff.
Perform the most complex inspection, plan checking and review, and code enforcement assignments.
Use and apply a wide scope of inspection methods and techniques.
Detect deviations from laws, regulations, and standard construction practices.
Read, interpret, and explain building plans, specifications, and codes.
Apply technical knowledge of building trades work.
Make mathematical calculations quickly and accurately.
Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Provide advice on acceptable construction methods and practices.
Enforce regulations with firmness and tact.
Prepare clear and concise reports.
Represent the County Building Inspection functions with the Board of Supervisors, community organizations, other government agencies, and the public.
Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.
Selection Process:
All completed applications and supplemental questionnaires will be reviewed. Depending upon the number of applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, the examination process may include a screening committee (pass/fail) and/or an oral examination (100%) which may include a written practical component to determine placement on the eligible list.
In accordance with California Government Code section 3100, et., seq., all County of San Benito employees are considered disaster service workers who may be required to report for duty, or remain on duty to address disaster service activities in the event of an emergency or disaster and are required to undertake an applicable loyalty oath.
SAN BENITO COUNTY BENEFITS FOR MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES
(This is meant to be an overview of benefits only. For full benefit terms and conditions, please see MOU)
Employees in regular, full-time positions will be eligible to participate in the following employee benefits:
Pay Day: Employees are paid bi-weekly.
Insurance Deductions: The insurance and benefits deductions will take place bi-monthly, normally the first two pay periods of the month. Bank/Credit union and 457 Retirement Deferrals deductions will take place bi-weekly.
Vacation: Based on continued years of service. Newly hired MEG employees may be eligible for higher vacation accrual rate for previous public sector experience (verification required). Maximum accruals may apply depending on the bargaining unit.
Holidays: 13.5 holidays (including 3 floating) for most employees. Safety officers and dispatchers receive approximately 5% holiday pay in addition to their base pay in lieu of paid holidays off.
Sick Leave: 15 days per year. Maximum accruals apply.
Medical Plan: Comprehensive CalPERS medical plans available for full-time employees. Employees appointed to a regular position at a time base of 50% or higher are eligible to participate.
Increase County contributions to medical effective January 2024.
a. Employee Only: $750.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum
b. Employee Plus One: $1,250.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum
c. Family: $1,515.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum
The County's contribution above shall be prorated for positions that are less than .90 FTE rounding to the nearest one-quarter time.
HRA: Employee Only Medical Plan: $1,500 maximum
Employee Plus One Medical Plan: $3,000 maximum.
Employee Plus Family Medical Plan: $4,000 maximum.
Employees who are eligible to receive a "cash in lieu of' enrollment in the County's medical plan shall receive a taxable payment of $150 monthly (pro-rated into biweekly installments of $69.23).
Dental Plan: County contributes $30 to Delta Dental plan for full-time employees and their families.
Vision Plan: The County pays for employee coverage and the employee can pay for dependent coverage. This benefit is available to full-time employees only.
Employee Assistance Program: The County provides confidential short-term counseling services to employees and dependents.
Life Insurance/AD&D: County pays for a $20,000 BASIC life insurance policy for each employee. Voluntary life insurance plans available.
Disability Insurance: Confidential and Management groups participate in the State Disability Insurance.
Credit Union: Membership to the Santa Clara Federal Credit Union is available to San Benito County employees.
Deferred Compensation: Employees may participate in tax-deferred retirement savings. Three 457 plans are available. Employees may rollover funds from prior 401k or 457 accounts. IRS limits apply.
Retirement: Regular employees will be enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system in accordance with the Public Employees' Retirement Law. Employee contributions vary according to bargaining unit.
All New Miscellaneous (non-Safety) employees enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system participate in the full formula of 2% at 62. Miscellaneous employees participate in Social Security in addition to CalPERS.
Supplemental Insurance: Employees may participate in various AFLAC plans such as accident, disability, and cancer insurances.
Flexible Spending Accounts: Health and Dependent Care available, pre-tax deductions.
THIS POSTING MAY CLOSE AT ANYTIME AND WILL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL FILLED.
Under general direction, to plan, organize, direct, and coordinate the building inspection and building code enforcement functions of the County; to train, supervise, and evaluate the work of subordinate staff; to provide consultation for building ordinance revision and development; to perform the most complex and sensitive inspection, plan review, and code enforcement work; to approve building permits; to answer questions regarding code enforcement and structural requirements for the public, architects, contractors, and engineers; and to do related work as required.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is a single position classification for themed-level management position, which provides direction and supervision for the County's building inspection, plan checking, and code enforcement functions. The incumbent administers a comprehensive building plan check and inspection program in the County's unincorporated areas through the enforcement of Federal, State and County codes, ordinances and regulations. Determines occupancy classification of buildings. Interprets building codes, makes final professional and technical determinations for building permit issuance and code enforcement.
REPORTS TO
Director Of Building and Planning
CLASSIFICATIONS SUPERVISED
Building Inspector I, II, III
Code Enforcement Officer I, II, III
Permit Technician
TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in office, outdoor, and driving environments; some assignments performed alone in remote locations; work is performed in varying temperatures; exposure to dust, chemicals, and gases; exposure to electrical currents; continuous contact with staff and the public.
TYPICAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Sit for extended periods; frequently stand and walk; ability to walk in uneven terrain and on slippery surfaces; normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; ability to crawl through various areas requiring movement on hands and knees; ability to climb, stoop, crouch, and kneel; lift and move objects weighing up to 50 lbs.; corrected hearing and vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computer, telephone, calculator, copiers, and FAX; operate an automobile.
Example of Duties
(The following is used as a partial description and is not restrictive as to duties required.)
Plans, organizes, directs, and manages the County's building inspection, plan checking, and code enforcement functions
Supervises, trains, and evaluates assigned staff
Develops a unit budget and controls expenditures
Provides major input in the development and revision of County building ordinances
Develops and recommends changes in fee schedules
Serves on special committees and task forces
Oversees the development and maintenance of building inspection records
Performs the most complex and sensitive building inspection, plan checking, and enforcement functions
Provides consultation and assists staff with work problems and assignments
Approves the issue of building permits; provides advice and consultation to the public, contractors, architects, and engineers
Represents the County Building Inspection functions and policies with the Board of Supervisors, community organizations, other government agencies, and the general public.
Minimum Qualifications
Training and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
Five years of responsible building inspection experience, preferably including experience in a lead, supervisory, or management position.
Special Requirements:
Possession or ability to obtain building inspector/plans examiner certification by I ICBO/ICC as a building inspector
Ability to obtain certification as a California Building Official (CALBO)
Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver's License.
Knowledge Of/Ability To
Knowledge of:
Thorough knowledge of the uniform codes effecting building inspection
Thorough knowledge of construction methods, building materials and tools and safety standards used in the general construction trades
Thorough knowledge of State and County regulations relating to the technical requirements for building permit applications and collection of fees for same
Building codes and ordinances enforceable by the County
Principles of mathematics related to the building trades.
Inspection methods and procedures
County code enforcement policies
Plan checking and review.
Working knowledge of principles and practices of management, supervision, training and employee evaluation
Working knowledge if seismic and energy considerations in the design and construction of building and structures
Some knowledge of the application of data processing to building inspection operations
Knowledge of the functional responsibilities of the planning process
Ability to:
Plan, organize, manage, and direct County building inspection, plan checking, and code enforcement functions.
Provide supervision, training, and work evaluation to assigned staff.
Perform the most complex inspection, plan checking and review, and code enforcement assignments.
Use and apply a wide scope of inspection methods and techniques.
Detect deviations from laws, regulations, and standard construction practices.
Read, interpret, and explain building plans, specifications, and codes.
Apply technical knowledge of building trades work.
Make mathematical calculations quickly and accurately.
Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Provide advice on acceptable construction methods and practices.
Enforce regulations with firmness and tact.
Prepare clear and concise reports.
Represent the County Building Inspection functions with the Board of Supervisors, community organizations, other government agencies, and the public.
Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.
Selection Process:
All completed applications and supplemental questionnaires will be reviewed. Depending upon the number of applicants who meet the minimum qualifications, the examination process may include a screening committee (pass/fail) and/or an oral examination (100%) which may include a written practical component to determine placement on the eligible list.
In accordance with California Government Code section 3100, et., seq., all County of San Benito employees are considered disaster service workers who may be required to report for duty, or remain on duty to address disaster service activities in the event of an emergency or disaster and are required to undertake an applicable loyalty oath.
SAN BENITO COUNTY BENEFITS FOR MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES
(This is meant to be an overview of benefits only. For full benefit terms and conditions, please see MOU)
Employees in regular, full-time positions will be eligible to participate in the following employee benefits:
Pay Day: Employees are paid bi-weekly.
Insurance Deductions: The insurance and benefits deductions will take place bi-monthly, normally the first two pay periods of the month. Bank/Credit union and 457 Retirement Deferrals deductions will take place bi-weekly.
Vacation: Based on continued years of service. Newly hired MEG employees may be eligible for higher vacation accrual rate for previous public sector experience (verification required). Maximum accruals may apply depending on the bargaining unit.
- 5 to 9 years of service = 15 days per year
- 10 to 14 years of service = 18 days per year
- 15 years of service = 20 days per year
Holidays: 13.5 holidays (including 3 floating) for most employees. Safety officers and dispatchers receive approximately 5% holiday pay in addition to their base pay in lieu of paid holidays off.
Sick Leave: 15 days per year. Maximum accruals apply.
Medical Plan: Comprehensive CalPERS medical plans available for full-time employees. Employees appointed to a regular position at a time base of 50% or higher are eligible to participate.
Increase County contributions to medical effective January 2024.
a. Employee Only: $750.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum
b. Employee Plus One: $1,250.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum
c. Family: $1,515.00, which would include the PEMHCA Minimum
The County's contribution above shall be prorated for positions that are less than .90 FTE rounding to the nearest one-quarter time.
HRA: Employee Only Medical Plan: $1,500 maximum
Employee Plus One Medical Plan: $3,000 maximum.
Employee Plus Family Medical Plan: $4,000 maximum.
Employees who are eligible to receive a "cash in lieu of' enrollment in the County's medical plan shall receive a taxable payment of $150 monthly (pro-rated into biweekly installments of $69.23).
Dental Plan: County contributes $30 to Delta Dental plan for full-time employees and their families.
Vision Plan: The County pays for employee coverage and the employee can pay for dependent coverage. This benefit is available to full-time employees only.
Employee Assistance Program: The County provides confidential short-term counseling services to employees and dependents.
Life Insurance/AD&D: County pays for a $20,000 BASIC life insurance policy for each employee. Voluntary life insurance plans available.
Disability Insurance: Confidential and Management groups participate in the State Disability Insurance.
Credit Union: Membership to the Santa Clara Federal Credit Union is available to San Benito County employees.
Deferred Compensation: Employees may participate in tax-deferred retirement savings. Three 457 plans are available. Employees may rollover funds from prior 401k or 457 accounts. IRS limits apply.
Retirement: Regular employees will be enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system in accordance with the Public Employees' Retirement Law. Employee contributions vary according to bargaining unit.
All New Miscellaneous (non-Safety) employees enrolled into the CalPERS retirement system participate in the full formula of 2% at 62. Miscellaneous employees participate in Social Security in addition to CalPERS.
Supplemental Insurance: Employees may participate in various AFLAC plans such as accident, disability, and cancer insurances.
Flexible Spending Accounts: Health and Dependent Care available, pre-tax deductions.
County of San Benito
(831) 636-4000
Located in California’s Central Coast region, 130 miles south of San Francisco, San Benito County (pop. 62,808) maintains a rural feel while offering a strong sense of community and historic charm in the County’s two incorporated cities and three unincorporated towns. The County encompasses almost 1,400 square miles and was formed from parts of Monterey County in 1874.
Agriculture, by acreage, is San Benito County’s largest industry with fertile valley soil supporting some of the most productive farmland in the state. Cool ocean air regulates the County’s temperature resulting in warm summers and mild winters perfect for enjoying the many outdoor pursuits available in the area.
San Benito County offers visitors and residents a wide array of “hidden” treasures. In February of 2013, the majestic mountains of Pinnacles National Monument were officially designated at the 59th National Park in the U.S. The County’s emerging wine country offers highly acclaimed and award-winning wines set among the scenic landscape of the area. Home to mission San Juan Bautista, the County also offers the enjoyment of an array of outdoor recreational activities, Agri-tourism, public library, museums, art festivals and galleries. The ideal proximity situated between the Silicon Valley and Monterey Bay provides easy access to the numerous amenities of the big city, while still offering an idyllic and scenic setting with affordable housing and a quality lifestyle.
Salary : $104,915 - $140,608
