Building Official

Job Description

Building Official (042)

(Unclassified)

Education and Experience

A combination of education and experience substantially equivalent to that obtained by a Bachelor’s Degree in engineering, architecture, or related field from an accredited college or university; and (5) five years of increasingly responsible experience in work involving building inspection, design, or construction, at least (2) two years of which shall have been in a supervisory capacity. Supervisory experience with a municipal government is highly desirable.

License & Certification

Possession of an appropriate, valid California driver’s license is required. Certification by the International Conference of Building Officials as a Combination Inspector, Plans Examiner, or Building Official is desirable. Possession of a valid certificate of registration from the State of California as a Civil or Structural Engineer is desirable.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is a management position in the unclassified service responsible for overseeing the Inspection Division of the Planning and Inspection Department. As a member of the City’s Unclassified Service, this is an “at-will” position. The incumbent serves at the discretion of the City Manager. An incumbent in this class exercises independent judgment and discretion not of a routine nature in evaluation and reporting on the work efforts of employees; in recommending to hire, promote, discipline, discharge, assign, or reward employees; in weighing the economic impacts of directing employees; or in adjusting employee grievances.

Typical Duties

Under administrative direction, is responsible for the efficient and progressive operation of the Inspection Division. Serves as technical advisor and assistant to the Director of Planning and Inspection Department; may act for the Director of Planning and Inspection in his/her absence; decides policy matters that cannot be deferred, and interpretations of the building codes; supervises the checking of drawings and computations of building plans for structural safety, fire hazards, exits, and other matters governed by municipal code; supervises and instructs employees in the inspection of buildings, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical installations; coordinates the work of the Division with respect to inspection matters; within procedures prescribed by the Director supervises the conduct of correspondence, the preparation of reports, the maintenance of records, and development of budget proposals; and performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Extensive knowledge of: building construction, structural safety, materials, methods and practices; municipal building, zoning, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and related ordinances and codes. Knowledge of computer software for permit administration. Superior ability to: supervise and administer Division operations; establish and maintain effective cooperation and desirable relationships with subordinates, public officials, private citizens, and public groups. Very good ability to write clear and concise reports and to independently handle administrative details.

Supervision Received

Works under administrative direction of the Director of Planning and Inspection.

Supervision Exercised

Supervises and trains assigned personnel in the Inspection Division.

Other Requirements

Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment.

Conflict of Interest

Incumbents in this position are required to file a Conflict of Interest Statement upon assuming office, annually and upon leaving office, in accordance with City Manager Directive 100.

Approved, August 1998